Pepsi Coliseum Renovation: the timeline, the new arena & ways to get involved

Between hockey games, concerts and livestock shows, the Pepsi Coliseum holds countless memories for Hoosiers.  Now, as we approach the “Year of Dairy Cows” at the Indiana State Fair, we prepare for our last fair with the “old” Coliseum.

Construction will begin October 29 on the new Coliseum complex. When the new Coliseum opens in time for the 2014 State Fair, visitors will find the building’s interior to be completely gutted and transformed with a new video scoreboard, a modern sound system and double-tiered seating.  Renovations will refresh but maintain the stadium’s traditional outside appearance. 

Thankfully, the construction of a new, 20,000-square-foot arena that will connect to the Coliseum’s south side will be complete in July 2013, allowing for business as usual at next year’s State Fair.  This means the livestock shows and entertainment that usually take place inside the Coliseum can utilize the new arena at the 2013 fair. Once Coliseum renovations are complete, the new arena will allow concurrent events to take place inside both facilities throughout the year.

Here’s a great look at the building’s past, present and future:

To help Hoosiers say farewell to the original 73-year-old Coliseum, fair officials are hosting “Denim & Dirt – Kickin’ Up the Hoosier Spirit” this Saturday, July 28 from 7-10 p.m. 

The evening features entertainment centered around Coliseum history such as live music by Beatles tribute band, Forever…the Tribute, interactive areas spotlighting Coliseum events and a live auction of everything from Coliseum Dirt to an Indiana Pacers championship banner. 

The public can send an email to Michelle Leavell at mleavell@indianastatefair.com to order tickets for this event – $50 each or $1,000 for a 10-person table. Guests may also purchase tickets at the door.  Each guest will receive a complimentary admission ticket good for one day at the Indiana State Fair, Aug. 3-19.

All proceeds from this event go to the Indiana State Fair Foundation for renovation expenses.

Hope to see you there!