A 6,000-seat mini Sphere is planned for National Harbor in Prince George’s County, Maryland, expanding Sphere Entertainment Co.’s immersive venue concept beyond Las Vegas.

The project is expected to receive about $200 million in combined state, local, and private incentives and would generate an annual economic impact well over $1 billion once it opens.

Support comes from top officials and leaders, including Governor Wes Moore, Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy, Sphere CEO James L. Dolan, and Peterson Companies CEO Jon Peterson, who frame it as a major economic and cultural milestone for the region.

Negotiations and definitive agreements for the project were still underway at the time of reporting.

Industry observers note that a smaller venue could affect nearby smaller venues by drawing audiences away, highlighting market competition considerations.

Sphere Entertainment Co., Peterson Companies, and ConstructConnect are cited as supporting entities, but the timeline remains undetermined.

The plan envisions a Vegas-style immersive experience on a smaller scale, using Sphere’s core technologies, including an Exosphere LED exterior and advanced sensory effects.

Experiential features are expected to include AI-enhanced productions, with potential for residencies and touring acts similar to Las Vegas shows.

The opening date is not yet set, as regulatory and financing steps must be completed, with the Las Vegas venue having taken about five years to reach completion from inception.

If approvals are secured, the project could target an opening around 2030, aligning with other regional development timelines.

The announcement positions the Maryland Sphere as a new landmark and part of Sphere Entertainment’s broader international expansion.

Local concerns include potential light pollution affecting flight paths near Reagan National Airport and scrutiny of how public subsidies are used amid budget pressures.