Get ready to remember a whole new name for the North Little Rock arena.
Simmons Bank will officially take over the naming rights of the Verizon Arena on Thursday, Oct. 3 — nearly a year after the bank’s November 2018 announcement of a $10.5 million deal to take over the naming rights to the arena. Verizon Arena will become Simmons Bank Arena on the arena’s 20th anniversary.
“The arena is a beacon for economic vitality, culture and world-class entertainment in Arkansas,” said George Makris, chairman and CEO of Simmons First National Corporation. “Simmons is proud to join our name with an organization that helps our home state flourish by driving commerce and creating shared experiences.”
The arena has hosted a slew of high-profile artists such as Elton John, The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, The Eagles, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Garth Brooks and Stevie Wonder. The arena has also welcomed family-friendly shows and sporting events including Disney on Ice, Cirque Du Soleil, Harlem Globetrotters, Monster Jam and the Arkansas Razorbacks.
“As we start our third decade, the arena board is excited to begin this new partnership with Simmons Bank,” said Rett Tucker, chair of the arena Board. “It will enable the arena to continue to be one of the best entertainment venues in the country.”
The new branding effort will kick off with apparel, cups, napkins and banners, as well as on the venue’s website and social media handles beginning on Oct. 3. Signage is expected to be installed later this year.
In celebration of the name change, Simmons Bank will launch a Facebook contest on Oct. 3 for two free tickets to the Oct. 25 Eric Church concert, one of the first events at Simmons Bank Arena.
For more info about the new arena, visit SimmonsBankArena.com on Oct. 3.