Sphere Entertainment Announces Ambitious Project at National Harbor

The proposed Sphere venue will be the second of its kind in the U.S., following the flagship Sphere in Las Vegas, but will feature a smaller-scale design model with a capacity of 6,000 seats. Sphere Entertainment's Executive Chairman and CEO, James L. Dolan, emphasized the potential of the National Harbor location to elevate immersive experiences through advanced technologies. “Sphere is a new experiential medium,” he stated, highlighting the company's commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Governor Wes Moore of Maryland expressed enthusiasm for this project, touting it as one of the largest economic development initiatives in Prince George’s County history. The development is expected to create approximately 2,500 jobs during the construction phase and 4,750 jobs upon completion, contributing significantly to local employment. The economic impact of the Sphere at National Harbor is projected to exceed $1 billion annually, generating millions in additional revenue for both the County and the State.

“This will prove once again our state is the best place in the country to bring dreams to life,” Moore said, underlining the project's potential to showcase Maryland's offerings to millions of visitors.

Prince George's County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy echoed the governor's sentiments, referring to the project as a “world-class win.” She underscored the strong partnership between the county, the state, and Sphere Entertainment, noting that this development symbolizes the future of economic growth and competitiveness in the region. “I love winning for Prince George’s County,” she declared, reflecting the collaborative spirit driving this initiative.

Jon Peterson, CEO of Peterson Companies, also expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that the Sphere project would reinforce National Harbor as a premier destination for conventions, entertainment, retail, and dining. The venue is expected to enhance the area's appeal, drawing both domestic and international visitors and positioning Maryland as a leading tourism hub.

The Sphere at National Harbor will incorporate cutting-edge technologies, including a 16K x 16K interior display plane—the highest-resolution LED screen in the world—and Sphere Immersive Sound. The venue will also feature innovative seating and 4D environmental effects, ensuring an unparalleled experience for attendees.

The development will be funded through a combination of public and private resources, including approximately $200 million in state, local, and private incentives. However, the realization of the Sphere at National Harbor hinges on the successful negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, as well as the necessary governmental approvals.

The Sphere in Las Vegas has set a high bar, recently ranked #1 on both *Billboard* and *Pollstar’s* 2025 lists of top-grossing venues worldwide. As Sphere Entertainment continues to expand its global network, the National Harbor venue is poised to become a vital part of this ambitious vision, alongside other planned venues, including one in Abu Dhabi.

The proposed Sphere at National Harbor represents a transformative opportunity for the region, promising to enhance the local economy, create jobs, and elevate the visitor experience through immersive entertainment. As negotiations progress, stakeholders and community members alike are eager to see this innovative vision come to life, solidifying Maryland's reputation as a hub for world-class entertainment.