Frisco, Texas, December 4, 2025
The Academy of Country Music has announced the return of the ACM Awards to Las Vegas for its 61st edition, following a successful three-year stint in Frisco, Texas. During their time in Frisco, the awards brought significant economic benefits, with local businesses thriving from the influx of tourists and country music fans. This move back to Las Vegas highlights the ongoing relationship between major events and local economies, showcasing the substantial impact such ceremonies can have on host cities.
Frisco, Texas
ACM Awards Move Back to Las Vegas After a Successful Run in Frisco
The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has officially announced that the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards will return to Las Vegas on May 17, 2026, after three successful years hosted at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. This decision underscores a significant point in the ongoing relationship between major events and local economies, illustrating how such high-profile ceremonies can generate substantial benefit for host cities.
While Frisco eagerly embraced the ACM Awards, celebrating six decades of music achievements during the recent 2025 ceremony, the return to the MGM Grand Garden Arena marks a pivotal moment for both the awards and the city. The past three years saw Frisco become a temporary hub for country music lovers, showcasing the city’s capacity to host large-scale events that draw attention, tourism, and economic growth.
The Economic Impact of ACM in Frisco
During its tenure in Frisco, the ACM Awards had a marked impact on the local economy. The 2023 show was particularly noteworthy, contributing to a record-breaking surge in economic activity as reported by Visit Frisco. This economic uplift exemplifies the advantages of hosting significant events—where local businesses, hotels, and restaurants saw increased patronage and visibility. The increased foot traffic, driven by the influx of fans and artists, undoubtedly provided a much-needed boost to the local economy, reinforcing the value of hosting such influential events.
Frisco’s Moment in the Spotlight
Hosting the ACM Awards for three consecutive years not only positioned Frisco on a national stage but also highlighted the city as a burgeoning player in Texas economic growth and culture. This event allowed local entrepreneurs to thrive, showcasing their capabilities to provide services and accommodations to a diverse audience. Frisco’s ability to adapt and host major events reflects the entrepreneurial spirit necessary for economic resilience in today’s fast-paced environment.
Looking Ahead: ACM Awards in Las Vegas
The upcoming 2026 ACM Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena will draw upon the venue’s long history with the ceremony, providing a traditional and well-established backdrop for the awards. Las Vegas has frequently welcomed the ACM Awards, and its significant entertainment infrastructure ensures it can accommodate the grandeur and reach of the event.
Community Engagement and Future Opportunities
As the ACM Awards transition back to Las Vegas, Frisco stands to benefit from the relationships and community engagement established during the past three years. These connections foster a spirit of collaboration which, if leveraged properly, can lead to further opportunities for growth in Frisco’s cultural and economic landscape. Continued investment in local businesses and community initiatives will ensure that the momentum gained during this time is not lost.
Conclusion
The Academy of Country Music Awards served as a unique platform for showcasing Frisco’s hospitality while providing a substantial economic boost during its stay. As the awards return to Las Vegas, the lessons learned and relationships built can help propel Frisco forward, harnessing the momentum created to foster local business resilience and community growth. Support for local enterprises remains essential as Frisco navigates the future, ensuring sustained economic activity and engagement.
FAQ
Q: When and where will the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards be held?
A: The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards will be held in Las Vegas on May 17, 2026, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The event will be streamed live on Prime Video and Twitch.
Q: Why is the ACM Awards moving back to Las Vegas after three years in Frisco?
A: The decision to return the ACM Awards to Las Vegas was made after the 2025 event in Frisco, which celebrated six decades of country music achievements.
Q: How did the ACM Awards impact Frisco’s economy during its tenure there?
A: During its three-year tenure in Frisco, the ACM Awards contributed significantly to the local economy. The 2023 show alone was a major contributor to a record-breaking economic boost for the city.
Q: Has the MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted the ACM Awards before?
A: Yes, the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas has a longstanding history with the ACM Awards, having hosted the ceremony multiple times since 2006.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 61st Academy of Country Music Awards |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas |
| Streaming Platforms | Prime Video and Twitch |
| Previous Venue | Ford Center at The Star, Frisco, Texas |
| Economic Impact in Frisco | Significant boost, with the 2023 show contributing to a record-breaking economic impact for the city. |
| Historical Venue | MGM Grand Garden Arena has hosted the ACM Awards multiple times since 2006. |
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