Herb Simon's Vision: Introducing Ole Red to the Fieldhouse District in Indianapolis
Pacers Sports & Entertainment owner Herb Simon is set to introduce Blake Shelton’s Ole Red music bar venue to the Fieldhouse District in Indianapolis. The deal, facilitated by Simon’s Boxcar Development and Opry Entertainment Group, will see OEG becoming marketing partners of the Pacers and Fever through the Fieldhouse Media Network. Utilizing Converge by Deloitte for Sports’ analytics, the network will target country music fans in Indianapolis to promote Ole Red’s offerings.
The 37,000-square foot Ole Red venue will include a main dining area, indoor and rooftop bars, and two performance stages, adding to Simon’s growing 60-acre entertainment district. The upcoming Ritz Carlton and Live Nation music venue nearby will further enhance the area’s appeal. Shelton expressed excitement about the vibrant energy in Indianapolis and the Fieldhouse district, highlighting the city’s love for sports and country music.
Shelton, along with Colin Reed of Ryman Hospitality Properties, is expected to visit Indianapolis for the announcement, witnessing the progress of the Fieldhouse District, including the Indiana Fever Performance Center. Reed praised Indianapolis as a market they have long admired and expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Simon in shaping the downtown entertainment district.
Simon’s vision is to transform Gainbridge Fieldhouse into a dynamic sports-anchored entertainment hub, aligning with the trend of sports-centric mixed-use projects across the U.S. PS&E’s Chief Commercial Officer, Joey Graziano, emphasized the organization’s goal of expanding beyond basketball to encompass music entertainment at various levels. The collaboration with Opry Entertainment Group and the development of mixed-use entertainment districts reflect a strategic approach to market expansion and redefining the team’s presence in the industry.
In conclusion, the partnership between Herb Simon’s organization and Opry Entertainment Group marks a significant step in enhancing the entertainment landscape of Indianapolis. The addition of Ole Red to the Fieldhouse District underscores the commitment to creating a vibrant and diverse destination for sports and music enthusiasts alike. With a focus on data-driven marketing and physical real estate development, the collaboration sets the stage for a new era of entertainment experiences in the heart of Indianapolis.