The REAL Sunset Amphitheater McKinney TX Schedule: Why You Won't See A Concert Until 2026
The "schedule" for the highly anticipated Sunset Amphitheater in McKinney, Texas, is not what most concert-goers expect, but the latest updates are far more exciting than a simple list of bands. As of December 2025, the venue is not yet hosting shows; rather, its current schedule is focused on a massive, multi-million dollar construction timeline that is progressing on schedule. The $300 million project is set to redefine the live music landscape in North Texas, promising a world-class, luxury entertainment experience unlike anything else in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex.
This deep dive provides the most current, up-to-date information on the project's status, the official opening date, who is programming the concerts, and the incredible luxury features you can expect when the gates finally open in 2026. Forget the old rumors—here is the definitive look at the future of live music in McKinney, Texas.
The Definitive Sunset Amphitheater Opening and Construction Schedule
The primary intention of searching for the "Sunset Amphitheater McKinney TX schedule" is to find concert dates, but the most crucial piece of information for late 2025 is the official opening timeline. The venue is a massive undertaking by VENU Holding Corporation, and the construction phase is currently in full swing.
Official Timeline and Status Updates (as of December 2025)
- Project Owner/Developer: VENU Holding Corporation (formerly known as Notes Live Inc.).
- Official Groundbreaking: The project officially broke ground in the summer of 2025, with a ceremony scheduled for June 13, 2025.
- Construction Status: As of late 2025, construction is progressing on schedule, moving through Phase 1, which includes the construction of parking garages and foundational infrastructure.
- Anticipated Opening Date: The official debut of the Sunset Amphitheater is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026. This timeline positions the venue to host its first full concert season in 2027.
- Location: The venue is strategically located at the northeast corner of Highway 75 and Highway 121 in McKinney, Texas, making it easily accessible to the entire North Dallas region.
The sheer scale of the project—estimated to cost between $300 million and $350 million—explains the multi-year construction schedule. This investment is creating a 20,000-seat facility designed not just as a seasonal venue, but as a multi-seasonal destination capable of hosting a diverse range of events year-round.
Who Will Be Running the Shows? The Future Concert Schedule Strategy
While the 2026 concert schedule is still a year away from being announced, a groundbreaking partnership revealed in December 2025 provides the strongest indication yet of the caliber of artists and the frequency of shows the venue will host. This partnership is the true answer to the "future schedule" question.
Live Nation Secures Exclusive Operator Role
In a major development in December 2025, VENU Holding Corporation announced a landmark agreement with Live Nation, the global leader in live entertainment, to serve as the exclusive operator of the 20,000-seat Sunset Amphitheater. This partnership is a massive win for McKinney and the entire DFW area, ensuring a steady stream of A-list talent.
The collaboration with Live Nation means the venue will be integrated into the global touring circuit, attracting the biggest names in music from rock and country to pop and electronic genres. Live Nation’s expertise in programming and event management guarantees a world-class schedule right out of the gate.
Projected Annual Programming
- Target Show Volume: The multi-seasonal design and operational strategy aim to host between 70 and 80 shows annually. This high volume will make it one of the most active major entertainment venues in Texas.
- Diverse Events: Beyond major concerts, the venue is designed to host a variety of events, including corporate gatherings, festivals, and community functions, utilizing its flexible, multi-seasonal layout.
The partnership also extends to the venue's premium hospitality. VENU has also secured a multi-venue agreement with Aramark Sports + Entertainment to manage the upscale food and beverage services, ensuring a gourmet dining experience that matches the luxury of the venue.
The 5 Most Luxurious Features That Define the Sunset Experience
The Sunset Amphitheater is not just another concert venue; it’s being built as the first "premium live music venue" in Texas. The design focuses heavily on providing a high-end, hospitality-focused experience, which is why the project budget is so significant. These luxury features are what will truly differentiate the McKinney venue from other DFW amphitheaters.
1. The Premium Fire Pit Suites
Perhaps the most talked-about feature is the extensive offering of premium seating options. The venue will feature approximately 250 to 295 luxury Fire Pit Suites. These private, reserved areas will offer an intimate, high-end concert experience, complete with dedicated wait service, comfortable seating, and, of course, a personal fire pit for cooler evenings. This concept elevates the standard concert box into a true VIP hospitality experience.
2. Multi-Seasonal Enclosure Technology
To achieve the goal of hosting 70-80 shows a year, the amphitheater incorporates a unique multi-seasonal design. This flexible layout utilizes innovative technology to adapt to Texas weather, allowing the venue to operate comfortably beyond the traditional summer concert season. This ensures that the entertainment schedule can remain robust even during the spring and fall.
3. Upscale Food and Beverage Program
In stark contrast to traditional stadium fare, the Sunset Amphitheater is committed to an upscale food and beverage program. The partnership with Aramark Sports + Entertainment confirms a focus on gourmet food, craft cocktails, and premium offerings throughout the venue. This dedication to quality dining is a key component of the luxury experience.
4. Reserved Seating and Grass Berm Options
The 20,000-seat capacity is thoughtfully divided to cater to all preferences. The venue will feature traditionally reserved seating in the middle and lower bowls, providing excellent sightlines and acoustics. For those who prefer a more relaxed, open-air experience, a beautifully landscaped grass berm will offer general admission seating with a stunning view of the stage and the Texas sunset.
5. Strategic Location and Infrastructure
The location at the intersection of two major highways (US-75 and SH-121) is a logistical feature that enhances the patron experience. The construction plans include significant infrastructure and parking garage development in Phase 1 to ensure smooth traffic flow and ample parking for the 20,000 guests, a critical component often overlooked in new venue construction.
What This Means for the DFW Entertainment Landscape
The arrival of the Sunset Amphitheater is a game-changer for the entire North Texas region. It positions McKinney, TX, as a major entertainment hub, competing directly with established venues in Dallas and Fort Worth. The project is a substantial economic driver, expected to create hundreds of jobs and generate significant tax revenue for the city of McKinney.
The focus on luxury and a year-round schedule, managed by a global powerhouse like Live Nation, ensures that the venue will attract national and international touring artists who might otherwise bypass the region or choose a competitor. For fans, it means more concerts, a better overall experience, and a new destination for premium live entertainment.
While the official list of 2026 and 2027 concerts is yet to be released, the schedule is clear: the countdown to the third quarter of 2026 is on, and the future of live music in North Texas has never looked brighter or more luxurious.
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