National Harbor Mini-Sphere: 6,000-Seat Immersive Venue Planned – What We Know About the D.C.-Area Project

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Big news for the DMV region: Sphere Entertainment is bringing a smaller-scale version of the iconic Las Vegas Sphere to National Harbor, Maryland — just minutes from Washington, D.C. Announced on January 19, 2026, this “mini-Sphere” (often called the first mini-Sphere) marks the second U.S. location for the groundbreaking immersive venue concept and the first to use a compact design model. The project, a partnership between Sphere Entertainment Co., the State of Maryland, Prince George’s County, and Peterson Companies, promises to transform the Potomac River waterfront into a new entertainment landmark. National Harbor Mini-Sphere!

Las Vegas Sphere

The Las Vegas Sphere, which opened in 2023 and has hosted massive shows from U2, Eagles, Phish, and more, is famous for its 360-degree LED interior, haptic seating, immersive sound, and dazzling Exosphere exterior display. This National Harbor version will deliver similar mind-blowing experiences on a smaller scale, making it more accessible for concerts, residencies, brand events, and original Sphere content.

Key Details on the National Harbor Sphere Project - National Harbor Mini-Sphere

• Capacity: Approximately 6,000 seats — about one-third the size of the Las Vegas Sphere's 18,600 capacity.

• Features: High-resolution 16K x 16K interior LED display (the world's highest-resolution screen), Sphere Immersive Sound technology, haptic seating, 4D environmental effects, and the signature Exosphere exterior LED facade for artistic and branded content visible from afar.

• Location: National Harbor, Prince George’s County, Maryland — a premier 350-acre waterfront destination along the Potomac River. It's already home to shops, dining, gaming (MGM National Harbor casino), conventions, and leisure activities, drawing over 15 million visitors annually. The site is just 15 minutes from downtown Washington, D.C., making it ideal for local residents and tourists in the DMV area (D.C., Maryland, Virginia).

• Economic Impact: Expected to generate more than $1 billion in annual economic activity for the region. The project will support about 2,500 construction jobs and 4,750 permanent jobs once operational.

• Funding & Incentives: Approximately $200 million in state, local, and private incentives. Construction, development, and operation depend on final agreements and approvals from Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland.

• Timeline: No official groundbreaking or opening date has been confirmed yet. Some reports suggest a potential opening around 2030, but details are pending negotiation and approvals.

  
  

The project positions National Harbor as a top-tier entertainment hub, especially timely after recent changes in the area (like the loss of other major attractions). Gov. Wes Moore called it “one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history,” while County Executive Aisha Braveboy highlighted its role in attracting world-class destinations. Sphere Entertainment CEO James L. Dolan emphasized the vision for a global network of Spheres in forward-looking cities.

What to Expect from Events at the Mini-Sphere

While no specific concert announcements have been made, the venue is designed for high-profile immersive experiences, including:

• Concerts and residencies with cutting-edge visuals and sound

• Original Sphere Experiences (like the Las Vegas venue's film and art installations)

• Brand activations and corporate events

  
  

Fans of immersive shows, electronic music, rock legends, or next-gen entertainment will have a new East Coast hotspot to watch. As tickets become available for future events, CapitalCityTickets.com will offer a full selection of discount and premium seats with our 100% buyer guarantee — no hidden fees and real-time inventory.

Stay tuned for updates on construction progress, opening timeline, and the first wave of shows. This mini-Sphere could redefine live entertainment in the D.C. area — a true game-changer for Maryland tourism and the broader region!

For the latest on National Harbor Sphere developments or to browse upcoming concert tickets in the DMV (and nationwide), visit CapitalCityTickets.com today. Don't miss out on what promises to be one of the most exciting new venues in years!