A new era of entertainment is about to begin in McKinney. On Friday, June 13, 2025, Venu Holding Corporation will host a groundbreaking ceremony for The Sunset Amphitheater in McKinney, marking a celebratory milestone for the ambitious $300 million project.
Though construction officially began in April, the invitation-only event will signal the city’s formal welcome of what is poised to become a regional landmark for live music and hospitality.
What Is Sunset Amphitheater
Located near the junction of Interstate 75 and Highway 121, the amphitheater sits on a 46-acre site acquired in January. Developed through a public-private partnership between VENU, the city of McKinney, the McKinney Economic Development Corporation and the McKinney Community Development Corporation, the venue is expected to open in 2026 and generate over $3 billion in economic impact during its first decade. That includes job creation, increased tourism, local tax revenue and growth for small businesses and surrounding infrastructure.
“This new music venue is a huge win for McKinney,” said Mayor George Fuller in an official statement. “It’s going to bring incredible energy to our city by boosting tourism, creating jobs and giving us the chance to welcome some of the biggest names in music. More than that, it’s another big step in building on the vibrant arts and culture scene we’re so proud of.
"McKinney isn’t just growing; it’s becoming a true destination.”
Designed for Year-Round Entertainment
The Sunset Amphitheater will accommodate up to 20,000 guests at full capacity, but it’s also built for flexibility. A multi-seasonal configuration allows for more intimate shows with around 5,000 guests, making year-round programming possible. Fans can expect LuxeFire Suites, elevated culinary options, a dramatic canopied roof with integrated heating for weather protection and an immersive layout that puts concertgoers at the center of the experience.
At the heart of the venue sits The Aikman Club — an exclusive, members-only lounge named for NFL Hall of Famer and EIGHT Beer founder Troy Aikman. The club promises world-class cuisine, premium seating and unmatched sightlines.
The project will kick off with the construction of a parking garage, which will then be followed by the amphitheater itself.
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