Live Nation Unveils Plans for Peru’s First Entertainment Arena
Live Nation has revealed ambitious plans to build Lima Music Arena, a state-of-the-art venue that will become Peru’s first indoor arena specifically designed for live performances.
With a capacity of 18,500, the arena will be located in Santiago de Surco, one of the capital’s fastest-growing districts, and is projected to open its doors by mid-2028.
The announcement marks a milestone for Peru’s live entertainment sector. While Lima has hosted major stadium concerts and outdoor festivals for decades, the city has long lacked a modern indoor venue tailored to large-scale concerts and shows.
The Lima Music Arena aims to fill that gap, hosting more than 100 events per year featuring a mix of international touring acts, Peruvian headliners, and emerging local talent.
A strategic location
Situated next to Jockey Plaza, one of Lima’s busiest shopping centres, the new arena is expected to anchor a broader entertainment district. Plans call for a new multi-level parking facility, dedicated rideshare and taxi drop-off zones, and direct connections to public transportation and major roadways. The goal, according to Live Nation, is to ensure smooth and safe access for the thousands of fans who will attend shows weekly.
“Lima is a priority market for Live Nation, and Lima Music Arena will be the home to the top international and local artists alike as we service the city’s growing number of passionate music fans,” said Michael Rapino, CEO of Live Nation. “We believe it will become a source of pride as Peru’s new epicenter for unforgettable live entertainment.”
The project is being developed in partnership with Portalia S.A., which owns the land where the arena will be built. The site, known as Explanada Olguín, has long been used for large-scale outdoor events, and the transformation into a permanent venue reflects the district’s growing role as a cultural hub.
“At Portalia, we are extremely proud to see such a project come to life on our Explanada Olguín site,” said Frédéric Servant, President of the Board at Portalia S.A.
“This state-of-the-art arena, operated by the world’s number one in live music, will position Lima and Surco as a leading capital of live entertainment in Latin America. The Lima Music Arena will also be perfectly complemented by the hotels that Portalia is developing alongside it, together creating a new hub for tourism and entertainment in the city.”
Designed for fans and artists
Blueprint Studio, Live Nation’s in-house design team, is collaborating with international architecture firm Gensler, as well as Lima-based Miranda Arquitectos and BL Arquitectos, to create the venue. Early design renderings emphasise fan experience: unobstructed sightlines, enhanced acoustics, and comfortable seating throughout the arena.
The interior will also feature a wide variety of concessions and bars, drawing inspiration from Lima’s internationally recognised culinary scene. From quick-service options to premium lounges, the venue aims to provide an experience that reflects the city’s reputation as a global food destination.
For artists, the back-of-house facilities are being designed to accommodate the largest touring productions in the world, with ample space for stage setups, equipment storage, and hospitality. This infrastructure is intended to make Lima a regular stop for global tours that often bypassed Peru due to logistical limitations.
A boost for Lima’s entertainment landscape
The Lima Music Arena comes at a time when Peru’s live events market is showing significant growth. In recent years, the country has attracted more international tours, and demand for tickets has consistently exceeded supply.
Analysts believe the arena could help Peru capture a larger share of the Latin American touring circuit, alongside established venues in Mexico City, São Paulo, Santiago, and Buenos Aires.
Industry observers also note the potential economic impact. The arena is expected to generate jobs during construction and ongoing operations, while also stimulating surrounding businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets. By drawing both local fans and international visitors, it could strengthen Lima’s position as a regional hub for culture and tourism.
Local officials have expressed optimism about the project, though they emphasize the importance of community engagement and infrastructure planning. Live Nation has stated that it will work closely with the municipalities of Santiago de Surco and Lima to ensure that the arena meets all regulatory requirements and addresses the needs of nearby residents.
Looking ahead
With a target opening date of 2028, Lima Music Arena still has several phases of development ahead, including final design approval, environmental assessments, and construction. But excitement around the project is already building, fueled by the prospect of a world-class arena that could transform the city’s live entertainment scene.
For fans, the announcement represents the promise of more consistent access to international artists who have previously bypassed Peru. For the entertainment industry, it signals confidence in the country’s growing market. And for Lima itself, the arena offers the chance to establish a landmark venue that celebrates music, culture, and community.
As Michael Rapino noted, “We believe Lima Music Arena will not only elevate the live entertainment experience but also become a symbol of the city’s energy, diversity, and global spirit.”
If successful, the Lima Music Arena will not only reshape the skyline of Santiago de Surco but also redefine Peru’s place on the world’s musical map.
