HAMPTON, Va. - PBR Hampton Roads, the area's coolest country concept, celebrates its official opening this week, hosting a grand opening party on Friday, March 9, with Hampton Roads Mayor Molly Joseph Ward on hand to cut the ceremonial ribbon.

This much-anticipated event will also feature national recording artist and country music star Craig Campbell, in addition to appearances by PBR bull riders, performances by PBR's talented staff and much more.

The PBR Hampton Roads grand opening party kicks off at 6 p.m. and is open to the public.

"We are extremely grateful to have The Cordish Companies continue to invest in Hampton Roads by attracting such exciting new tenants as PBR," said Ward. "This new business is sure to enhance the Power Plant district, as well as City of Hampton, and will be a true regional draw."

PBR Hampton Roads is located in between Joe's Crab Shack and Cold Stone Creamery at the area's premier dining, entertainment and retail destination - Power Plant of Hampton Roads. Since occupying the former Saddle Ridge space in December 2011, PBR underwent significant renovations in preparation for its opening, including a new design and décor with notable upgrades, including a stage for live music, large dance floor, a soft-seating lounge area and the world's meanest mechanical bull as a showpiece element to the club. The new-and-improved bull ring will not only host patrons, but be activated nightly with performances by PBR's "Bullfighters" and "Buckle Bunnies," creating an engaging and exciting show sure to get party-goers off their feet.

The "World's Meanest Mechanical Bull" is just one of many attractions at PBR Hampton Roads.

Hosting the best of local, regional and national music acts throughout the year and powered by a state-of-the-art sound and light system, PBR Hampton Roads promises to be a truly eclectic combination of "cowboy cool" meets "urban chic" and the area's premier nightlife destination. PBR is also very proud to launch its Southwest-inspired menu created by Executive Chef Hudson Patton.

At 6 p.m., join Mayor Molly Ward for a ceremonial ribbon cutting, officially marking the opening of the new venue. From 6:30-7:30PM, acoustic duo Kevin Mac kicks off the entertainment with a live set, leading up to a not-to-be-missed performance by country music star Craig Campbell from 7:30-9 p.m. A complimentary buffet will be provided from 7-10 p.m. by US 106.1 New Country, while a DJ, dancing and plenty of bull rides top off the night. PBR Hampton Roads grand opening party is open to the public with a $5 admission fee. Patrons are encouraged to come early as crowds are expected. Must be over 21. PBR Hampton Roads will be open Wednesdays-Saturdays from 4 p.m.- 2 a.m. For more information visit: http://pbrvirginia.com/.

About the Power Plant of Hampton Roads

The Power Plant of Hampton Roads, located in the heart of Hampton, Va., is a 700,000-square-foot super-regional retail and entertainment attraction. Featuring traditional retailers such as Lowe's Home Improvement and BJ's Wholesale, unique national anchors such as Bass Pro Shop, national restaurants including NASCAR Sports Grille, Joe's Crab Shack, LoneStar Steakhouse, hotels, and an entertainment district overlooking a beautiful natural lake, the Power Plant of Hampton Roads is one of the dominant centers in the region.

About The Cordish Companies

The Cordish Companies (www.cordish.com), now in its fourth generation of family ownership, is an international conglomerate of businesses, including one of the leading real estate development companies, entertainment and gaming companies in the United States. The company has diverse development expertise, with divisions focused on Entertainment & Mixed-Use, Gaming & Lodging, Sports Anchored Districts, Shopping & Lifestyle Retail, Office and Residential. The Cordish Companies also owns and manages a diverse group of operating businesses, ranging from gaming, restaurants/clubs to live music promotion and film/media distribution. The Company values itself on the quality of its operations, its long-term relationships, and high level of integrity in all of its endeavors.

The Cordish Companies is the largest and most successful developer of entertainment districts and concepts in the United States. In particular, the company has unparalleled experience in creating and revitalizing high-profile destinations in urban core locations. Many of The Cordish Companies' projects involve public/private partnerships and are of unique significance to the cities in which they are located. Prime examples are the company's prominent role in the redevelopment of Baltimore's world-famous Inner Harbor; Atlantic City, N.J.; Hollywood, Fla.; Charleston, S.C.; Houston; Louisville, Ky.; Tampa, Fla.; Kansas City, Mo.; and Towson, Md.

The Cordish Companies has received the highest possible national awards in its various areas of expertise. In real estate, The Cordish Companies has received an unprecedented seven Urban Land Institute Awards of Excellence.