(SAN DIEGO – MAY 28, 2025) — One of San Diego's most iconic sports and entertainment venues – Pechanga Arena San Diego – will continue to proudly bear the name of Pechanga Resort Casino through December 2026.
The announcement comes with the extension of the naming rights agreement between the venue and Pechanga Resort Casino, which is located just outside of Temecula, Calif., and is rated as one of the top resort/casinos in the United States.
"The Pechanga Arena partnership isn't just about a logo on a building – it's about continuing our commitment to serving one of California's most dynamic markets,” said Sean Vasquez, Pechanga Development Corporation President. “The ROI on this investment extends beyond brand exposure; this venue hosts over 130 events annually, creating unparalleled touchpoints with demographics that directly align with our growth strategy. We're doubling down on what works, while strengthening our position as the premier entertainment brand in Southern California."
Pechanga Resort Casino first partnered with the Pechanga Arena in a naming rights deal in late 2018. This partnership allows the resort and casino to provide its guests access to the hottest shows and events at the arena. Over the years, the two organizations have also continued their commitment to serving the region by collaborating on food and toy drives for those in need, Red Cross blood drives, and more.
Opened in 1966, Pechanga Arena is San Diego’s historic home for entertainment, featuring major concerts and family shows, and serving as the home arena for the San Diego Gulls and San Diego Seals. Originally known as the San Diego Sports Arena, the venue boasts a rich history of hosting unforgettable events and has become a central hub for entertainment in the region.
Now, Pechanga Arena approaches its 60th anniversary and remains a premier destination for some of San Diego’s most sought-after events, delivering exceptional experiences for attendees. This includes earning the No. 18 ranking of top venues worldwide (10,001-15,000 capacity) with $29.1 million in gross sales and 277,000 tickets sold in 2024, as published in Billboard’s “Year in Touring 2024” bulletin.
“We’re proud to say that, with this extension, Pechanga Resort Casino becomes the venue’s longest-serving naming rights partner,” said Ryan Golden, General Manager at Pechanga Arena San Diego. “These agreements provide more than just branding and exposure for our partners. They represent true partnerships built on mutual support and a shared commitment to community and excellence.”
In August 2024, Midway Rising assumed control of the lease for Pechanga Arena in agreement with the City of San Diego. Midway Rising has partnered with global premium experiences company Legends to oversee sponsorships, food & beverage, operations and management of the Arena, ensuring that it remains a leading venue for top-tier entertainment and sports.
About Pechanga Resort Casino
Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the best casino outside of Las Vegas by Newsweek, rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002 and the only resort/casino in the U.S. to place in the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled California getaway. Offering 5,500 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and championship golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features an unmatched destination. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians. For more information, call toll free 1-888-PECHANGA or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Instagram, Facebook and on X @PechangaCasino. Pechanga Resort Casino is open 24 hours. Guests must be 21 and older to enter the casino.
About Pechanga Arena
Pechanga Arena San Diego, located in the heart of San Diego, California, is a premier multi-purpose venue renowned for its diverse entertainment offerings. Opened in 1966 and originally known as the San Diego Sports Arena, this iconic facility has hosted an impressive array of events, from major concerts to sporting events and family shows. With a seating capacity of 14,000, it provides an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere for fans and attendees. Today, in partnership with ASM Global/Legends, Pechanga Arena is consistently rated as the #1 facility in California for venues with 10,001 – 15,000 seats and continues to be a central hub for entertainment in San Diego.
