Venu moves back Sunset Amphitheater opening to summer ’26

By John Dobberstein, Editor

Venu, the Colorado Springs-based entertainment and hospitality company developing the Sunset Amphitheater at Broken Arrow, announced the facility is now expected to open in summer 2026.

The development agreement between the city of Broken Arrow and VENU originally called for the 12,500-seat amphitheater to open later this year, with a $10,000-per-month penalty to be paid by the developer to the city if the facility was not open by Dec. 31.

This spring, however, a representative from Venu told the City Council there had been construction delays and the amphitheater design was being revised to add “wind walls” and convert the amphitheater to a year-round entertainment facility. The most recent opening date mentioned in SEC filings was spring 2026. 

Sunset Amphitheater at Broken Arrow Powered by EIGHT Elite Light Beer, is expected to generate $4.3 billion in economic impact in the first 20 years of operation through increased tourism, hospitality revenue and job creation, officials said. 

“Sunset Amphitheater at Broken Arrow will become Oklahoma’s most exciting entertainment destination, providing both residents and visitors alike an unparalleled live music experience,” says Tom Ashley, VENU’s President of Real Estate and Development. “Broken Arrow’s collaborative approach and steadfast support for Sunset Amphitheater have been instrumental as we further establish the city as a vibrant cultural hub. 

There have been some delays in the management recruitment for the project. Industry giant Aramark Sports + Entertainment was awarded the contracts for food and beverage concessions, artist and branded venue retail and facilities management — including custodial and grounds maintenance, cleaning and engineering services. 

But a preliminary agreement between Venu and its chosen promotional company, Live Nation, fell through last fall after Live Nation demanded the city build another 2,200 parking spaces for events.

In a letter of response, the city expressed concern the request couldn’t be fulfilled without changes in the development agreement to cover the unexpected costs. Venu said in government filings it was still searching for a promoter.

After announcing the amphitheater project in late 2023, Venu also told the Sentinel that naming rights were envisioned for the facility, which has not materialized as of yet.

Venu did, however, announce a  partnership with three-time Super Bowl champion Troy Aikman to help brand the facility through The Aikman Clubs — an elevated club space with food and beverage available at concerts. But it will also be open on non-event days for rentals, hosting corporate events and other functions.

VENU has partnered with Connect Partnership Group to identify potential sponsors for the new development.

Potential development around the amphitheater has been anticipated, but as of now no restaurants, hotels or other amenities have been announced in connection with the project.

The City Council approved a special TIF district to capture tax revenue from the development area and pay off bonds for the amphitheater’s parking lots and infrastructure. Paying off the bonds is dependent on the project being a financial success.