Paycom Center named finalist for ACM Arena of the Year

Paycom Center has been named a finalist for Arena of the Year by the Academy of Country Music, a recognition that reinforces Oklahoma City’s growing position as a top-tier destination for major touring acts and live entertainment.

The recognition comes as part of the ACM’s 61st Annual Industry Awards and reflects momentum for live music in Oklahoma City, driven by strong attendance and a steady pipeline of national touring acts.

“Our team continues to produce top-tier events for Oklahoma City, and the region continues to show up to support live music,” said Paycom Center General Manager Chris Semrau.

That demand has been evident in recent bookings, including the addition of a second Cody Johnson show this summer after the first date sold quickly.

In 2025, Paycom Center hosted a strong lineup of country artists, including Alan Jackson’s final Oklahoma performance, along with shows from Dwight Yoakam, Tyler Childers, Whiskey Myers, Zach Top, Riley Green and Treaty Oak Revival.

That momentum has carried into 2026. Rascal Flatts brought a full house in February, and the current calendar includes Jason Aldean, Parker McCollum, Brooks & Dunn and two shows from Cody Johnson, with additional announcements expected.

While the nomination highlights the venue’s impact in country music, its programming extends beyond the genre, with comedians, family shows and touring acts across multiple formats filling the calendar year-round.

Paycom Center is one of five finalists for Arena of the Year, alongside Bridgestone Arena (Nashville), T-Mobile Center (Kansas City), Dickies Arena (Fort Worth) and BOK Center (Tulsa).

Winners will be announced in the coming weeks, with awards presented during the ACM Honors event in August in Nashville.