Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
The Sphere first launched in Las Vegas in September 2023. With 4D effects, a massive wraparound LED screen, and top-notch audio, the $2.3 billion, 20,000-seat stadium is as opulent as they come, as per UCR.
There are now proposals to construct a second cutting-edge facility near National Harbor, Maryland, which is about fifteen minutes outside of Washington, D.C.
With 6,000 seats, this Sphere would be much smaller than the Vegas venue, but it would still have an outer LED screen, an inside LED screen with 16K resolution, 4D technology, and immersive sound, according to a press statement.
Our focus has always been on creating a global network of Spheres across forward-looking cities. Sphere is a new experiential medium. With a commitment to bringing innovative opportunities to residents and visitors, Governor Moore, County Executive Braveboy, the State of Maryland and Prince George’s County recognize the potential for a Sphere at National Harbor to elevate and advance immersive experiences across the area. It would utilize a combination of public and private funding, including approximately $200 million in state, local, and private incentives. – James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Sphere Entertainment
During construction, about 2,500 employment would be produced; after the space was fully operating, 4,750 jobs would be created. It is anticipated to have an annual economic impact of more than $1 billion.
Maryland has a long history of providing world-class entertainment and we could not be more excited to work with Sphere Entertainment to bring this cutting-edge project to life. This will be one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history – proving once again our state is the best place in the country to bring dreams to life. We’re excited for what this means for our people, and how it will showcase the best of what Maryland has to offer to everyone who visits. – Maryland Governor Wes Moore
Plans for another Sphere have already been put up. The Las Vegas Sphere’s owner, Sphere Entertainment Co., has previously expressed plans to construct facilities of a similar nature all over the world.
Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, formally rejected planning approval for the construction of a Sphere in East London in November 2023, primarily due to light pollution concerns. In South Korea, other potential construction proposals have stagnated. Then, in October 2024, it was revealed that a Sphere, comparable in scale to the one in Las Vegas, would be constructed in Abu Dhabi; however, the precise date of completion and opening has not been disclosed.
But also in this case nothing’s set in stone yet.
Any construction, development, financing and operation of a Sphere venue at National Harbor is contingent upon, among other things, negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, as well as receipt of certain governmental incentives and approvals from Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland.
