Avant Gardner Approved to Demolish Brooklyn Mirage Structure Amid Rumors of Takeover
Avant Gardner’s application to demolish the temporary structure where the Brooklyn Mirage once stood has officially been approved, marking a major turning point in the ongoing saga surrounding one of New York City’s most iconic electronic music venues. According to filings and shared updates, demolition is expected to begin on February 2 and last approximately 60 to 90 days.
The approval signals a physical reset of the site following years of delays, cancellations, and legal uncertainty. While rumors of a potential takeover continue to circulate within the industry, no finalized sale or reopening plan has been confirmed at this time. Any future announcements, sources stress, remain speculative until formally approved through the courts.
A History of Chaos and Community Buzz
Originally opening in 2017, the Brooklyn Mirage quickly became one of the most celebrated outdoor electronic music venues in the world, drawing international headliners and helping redefine New York City’s summer nightlife. Its immersive LED wall, open-air design, and large-scale productions turned the venue into a global destination — but its final years were marked by mounting setbacks that ultimately stalled its momentum.
In 2025, anticipation for the Mirage’s seasonal reopening unraveled after Avant Gardner announced delays tied to inspection and permitting issues, pushing back scheduled programming and leaving fans and promoters in limbo. What initially appeared to be a temporary setback soon evolved into a much broader problem, as communication became increasingly limited and confidence in the venue’s reopening timeline eroded.
Later that year, Avant Gardner — the parent company behind the Brooklyn Mirage as well as The Great Hall and Kings Hall — filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing significant financial strain and complications connected to construction, compliance, and the venue’s temporary structures. The filing confirmed that the Mirage’s troubles extended well beyond delayed openings.
Demolition permits were first filed in October 2025 for portions of the approximately 32,000-square-foot temporary structure, signaling that a full teardown — rather than a simple renovation — was under consideration. For many in the community, the move marked the end of an era.
Takeover Reports, But No Final Sale
As the bankruptcy proceedings unfolded, multiple reports emerged suggesting that Avant Gardner and the Brooklyn Mirage could be acquired by FIVE Holdings, the Dubai-based group behind Pacha, with discussions pointing toward a potential relaunch under the name “Pacha New York.”
However, while those reports generated widespread attention, the proposed sale has not been fully finalized or approved through bankruptcy court. Court documents and creditor filings later revealed that support for the takeover was withdrawn, citing disclosure concerns and unresolved legal issues. As a result, no confirmed transfer of ownership has been completed, leaving the venue’s long-term future unresolved.
Demolition Begins as the Scene Watches Closely
With demolition now approved and scheduled, the Brooklyn Mirage enters its most definitive phase yet — one that physically closes the chapter on the venue’s original form. Whether the site eventually returns as a reimagined club space, a new branded venue, or something entirely different remains to be seen.
For now, the electronic music community is watching closely. Once synonymous with peak summer nights and landmark performances, the Mirage’s fate is still being written — and its next incarnation, if any, will depend on what emerges once the dust settles.
*Cover image credit: Scott Enman
