LAS VEGAS (LVN) — As January 2026 unfolds, Las Vegas continues to assert its status as a global entertainment and innovation hub, driven by ambitious expansion plans for its iconic venues, a growing slate of high-profile residencies, and sustained investment across its hospitality and convention sectors. The city remains energized by a steady mix of technology conferences, headline concerts, and infrastructure enhancements that reinforce its year-round appeal.

One of the most significant announcements this month comes from Sphere Entertainment, the company behind Sphere. Plans are moving forward for a second, smaller-scale Sphere to be built in National Harbor, Maryland, near Washington, D.C., with an anticipated opening in 2030. The new venue will feature approximately 6,000 seats—down from Las Vegas’ 18,600—while preserving the signature LED Exosphere and ultra-high-resolution interior screen that define the original. Maryland officials estimate the project could generate roughly $1 billion in annual economic activity.

Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Sphere remains a major draw for world-class performers. Industry reports indicate that heavy metal icons Metallica are nearing a deal for a Sphere residency in 2027. The venue has also extended its popular Wizard of Oz Immersive Film Experience through August 2026, continuing to showcase the Sphere’s multi-sensory capabilities.

Across the Strip, residencies continue to anchor Las Vegas’ live-entertainment economy. Pop legend Cyndi Lauper recently announced her first-ever Las Vegas residency, Cyndi Lauper: Live in Las Vegas, scheduled for April 24 through May 2, 2026, at Caesars Palace. The electronic music scene is also set for a strong year, with LIV Las Vegas and LIV Beach announcing 2026 lineups featuring global DJs such as David Guetta, Tiësto, John Summit, and Dom Dolla. January performances alone include the Eagles at the Sphere, Blake Shelton at Caesars Palace, and Zayn at Park MGM. Earlier in the month, Duran Duran opened the year with back-to-back shows at Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

Las Vegas’ hospitality sector is undergoing parallel transformation. The highly anticipated Vanderpump Hotel is on track to open in spring 2026, replacing the former Cromwell Hotel with a boutique luxury concept on the Strip. Caesars Palace is expanding its ultra-luxury inventory with two new Presidential Villas and 29 Sky Villas, targeting high-end and VIP travelers. Elsewhere, NoMad Las Vegas has rebranded as The Reserve at Park MGM, with plans to join Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection later this year. The Grand Prix Plaza, a Formula 1-themed attraction, is also scheduled to reopen on January 30, 2026, following its use during the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Conventions remain a cornerstone of the local economy. Consumer Technology Association’s International CES 2026 concluded earlier this month, drawing more than 200,000 attendees from January 6–9. The AVN Expo & Awards is currently underway at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, running through January 24. Looking ahead, the International Fireworks Championship Las Vegas is scheduled for February 21 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, while the Barrett-Jackson Fall Auction will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center from September 10–12, 2026.

On the local front, retail and community events continue to round out the city’s growth. Asian grocery chain 99 Ranch Market celebrated the grand opening of its Boca Park location on January 24, expanding dining and shopping options for residents. The city also observed the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade on January 19, bringing community members together in a moment of reflection and celebration.

With major entertainment announcements, ongoing resort investment, and a robust convention calendar, Las Vegas enters 2026 positioned as a city in constant motion—balancing spectacle, innovation, and economic momentum as it strengthens its role as a premier global destination for leisure and business alike.