ACM Awards Bid Farewell to Frisco After Three Memorable Years
The Academy of Country Music Awards are set to leave Frisco for their 2026 event, returning instead to the renowned MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. This announcement, made on December 1, marks the end of a three-year tenure for the awards show at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, which has become synonymous with country music’s grandest celebrations.
The Economic Impact of a Country Music Powerhouse
Frisco has embraced the ACM Awards wholeheartedly, with the event providing a significant economic boost to the area. According to reports from Visit Frisco, the 2023 ACM show alone was a major contributor to a record-breaking economic impact for the city, generating over $28 million in estimated direct spending. This economic influx has been attributed to the influx of country music fans, showcasing how entertainment events can energize local businesses.
A Legacy of Glamour and Stars
The ACM Awards, often referred to as country music's biggest party, have drawn high-profile performers and emerging artists alike. Just last May 8, the 2025 awards ceremony featured mesmerizing performances from stars like Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, and Miranda Lambert. Their presence and performances not only celebrate the genre but also highlight country music's evolving landscape and its deep-rooted cultural significance.
Why the Move Back to Las Vegas?
While the decision to return to Las Vegas raises questions, it's essential to understand the significance of the MGM Grand as a historical venue for the ACM Awards. ACM's CEO, Damon Whiteside, expressed deep affection for Las Vegas and described the impending event as a homecoming, emphasizing the “special memories” the location holds. The MGM Grand offers advantages for production value, including larger staging capabilities and a wealth of nearby accommodations, making it a more suitable venue for the gala's expanding needs.
A Campy Goodbye and New Beginnings
The 2025 ACMs celebrated their 60th anniversary in Frisco, filled with excitement, star power, and community pride. Marla Roe, the executive director for Visit Frisco, reflected on the memorable years the awards spent in North Texas, noting that although their run in Frisco has concluded, it was an exhilarating chapter filled with “great years.” As the community bids farewell to the ACM Awards for now, the anticipation builds for what the future holds as it heads back to Sin City.
What Lies Ahead for Country Music Fans
For fans of country music, the 2026 ACM Awards promises to be an exciting event as it will also be available for streaming on Prime Video and Twitch, broadening the reach for audiences eager to catch this grand celebration. As anyone can assume, the ACM Awards will continue to thrive in the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas, with ongoing partnerships that strengthen entertainment options for fans.
Even though the curtain has drawn on Frisco's turn with the ACM Awards, the legacy remains. Community members can take pride knowing that the event played a substantial role in showcasing Frisco on a global stage, fostering local growth, and presenting a chance to celebrate the heart of country music.
Whether you're tuning in from afar or planning to travel to Las Vegas next May, it's clear that the journey of the ACM Awards continues, enriched by history and driven by passion.
Add Element
Add Row
Write A Comment