The Cherries Are Back: Pacha Returns to New York, Taking Over the Iconic Brooklyn Mirage

In a move sending waves through the global dance music community, the iconic cherries of Pacha are making a grand return to New York City. The legendary brand is set to transform the beloved Brooklyn Mirage into Pacha New York, heralding a new era for nightlife in a borough celebrated for its artistic soul and musical innovation. This isn’t just a new club opening; it’s the revival of a legacy, promising to merge a fifty-year history of dance culture with Brooklyn’s unmistakable energy.

From Turmoil to Triumph: A New Dawn for a Beloved Venue

The journey to this moment has been a rollercoaster for fans of the East Williamsburg venue. Its parent company, Avant Gardner, faced a tumultuous period, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2025 after a massive renovation failed to pass inspections, preventing the venue from opening for the entire summer season. This left a significant void in New York’s nightlife. The situation was fraught with uncertainty, financial distress, and legal battles that nearly saw the venue demolished. However, rising from the ashes, a powerful partnership has emerged. Dubai-based hospitality giant FIVE Holdings, which acquired the Pacha Group in 2023, has entered a long-term agreement to take full operational management of the Brooklyn Mirage and The Great Hall complex. This collaboration with Axar Capital Management ensures that the venue is not only saved but is set to be elevated to even greater heights.

“After supporting Avant Gardner through a challenging period in 2025, we are pleased to have achieved an agreement in principle… With these matters now resolved, the transition to FIVE and Pacha can move forward in earnest,” said Andrew Axelrod, CEO and CIO of Axar Capital.

A Global Icon with a Brooklyn Heartbeat

This isn’t Pacha’s first bite of the Big Apple. Veterans of New York nightlife will fondly remember Pacha NYC, which reigned in Hell’s Kitchen for a decade from 2005 before closing its doors in 2016. Its return is more than just nostalgia; it’s a statement of intent. FIVE Holdings Chairman and CEO, Kabir Mulchandani, sees this as a defining moment. He stated, “New York – the financial and cultural capital of the world – represents more than a market expansion for FIVE and Pacha; it marks a defining moment in our global journey.” The vision for Pacha New York is clear: to be a cultural platform where global icons and underground pioneers share the same stage. The inaugural season, running from June through October 2026, promises a curated lineup of the world’s most sought-after electronic artists alongside homegrown talent, reflecting the diverse soundscape of modern dance music. The focus is on creating an experience that is globally connected yet deeply rooted in the local community, maintaining partnerships with Brooklyn artists and promoters who are the lifeblood of the scene.

The Future is Bright and the Music Never Stops

While the open-air Mirage will capture the magic of New York’s summer, the energy won’t fade with the season. The adjacent Great Hall will be upgraded and continue to operate year-round, serving as a multi-genre arena for live acts and next-generation sounds. This ensures a constant pulse of music and culture emanating from the complex. The message is powerful: Pacha New York aims to be a home for music lovers, a stage for artists, and a new chapter in a storied legacy of dancing together. As demolition and reconstruction are already underway to bring this ambitious vision to life, the anticipation is palpable. A legendary Brooklyn venue is being reborn, infused with the spirit of a global nightlife institution. So, New York, are you ready to welcome the cherries back? The dance floor awaits.