City and state officials are expected to join the Oak View Group Friday afternoon to celebrate the reopening of PeoplesBank Arena, following a major renovation aimed at transforming the downtown venue into a modern hub for sports and entertainment.
Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, Capital Region Development Authority Executive Director Mike Freimuth and Oak View Group Co-Chair Peter Luukko are expected to speak at the noon event, which marks the arena’s official relaunch.
Upgrades include new seating, premium loge and bunker suites, enhanced rigging capabilities and improved concourse technology.
Two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Stevie Nicks will headline the first concert in the revamped arena on Saturday.
Other upcoming acts include Pentatonix on Dec. 6, Andrea Bocelli on Dec. 13, Ricardo Arjona in February and Cardi B in April 2026.