The Heartland Events Center is a cornerstone of the Grand Island community and a premier venue for entertainment, sports and large-scale events in central Nebraska. Since its opening, it has significantly contributed to the region’s cultural and economic vitality, becoming a destination for both residents and visitors.
The vision for the Heartland Events Center emerged in the early 2000s as local leaders recognized the need for a modern, multi-purpose facility that could accommodate a broad range of events. Construction began on December 10, 2004, and the center officially opened in August 2006, launching with concerts during the Hall County Fair. The project was a collaborative effort that involved a blend of public and private funding. The Nebraska State Legislature provided foundational support, while the City of Grand Island contributed $5 million through a restaurant tax. Hall County added $1 million from Keno proceeds, Fonner Park donated the land and numerous private and corporate donors helped finance the remainder.
Built on the Fonner Park campus, the facility spans 180,000 square feet and is anchored by the Eihusen Arena, a 7,500-seat venue that offers 30,000 square feet of floor space. The arena features 6,000 stadium seats and can accommodate an additional 1,500 attendees on the floor during concerts. Modern amenities include a high-definition Daktronics scoreboard, four concession stands, 12 leased suites and well-equipped locker and dressing rooms. The adjacent Bosselman Conference Center adds another 8,000 square feet of flexible meeting and banquet space, making the complex suitable for a variety of events ranging from business conferences to trade shows.
A pivotal moment in the center’s history occurred in 2010 when the Nebraska State Fair relocated from Lincoln to Grand Island. The Heartland Events Center became an integral part of the fair’s operations, hosting major concerts, exhibitions and rodeo events during the annual event. Its central location and top-tier facilities have helped the fair flourish in its new home, drawing large crowds and further establishing Grand Island as an events destination.
In addition to the State Fair, the center has hosted a diverse lineup of performances and sporting events over the years. The Eihusen Arena was home to the Nebraska Danger indoor football team from 2011 to 2019, and the venue has welcomed major musical acts including ZZ Top, Chicago, and the Beach Boys. From concerts and family shows to sporting competitions and community gatherings, the Heartland Events Center has proven its versatility and appeal.
In 2024, a new chapter began when the City of Grand Island assumed full ownership of the Heartland Events Center after fulfilling its financial obligations tied to its original investment. Looking to increase the venue’s utilization and appeal, the city brought in VenuWorks, a professional venue management company based in Iowa, to oversee operations. VenuWorks committed to investing $300,000 in immediate improvements, including upgraded concessions and a renewed focus on customer experience, aiming to bring more national touring acts and regional events to the venue.
Today, the Heartland Events Center continues to serve as a vital asset for Grand Island and the surrounding region. With its strategic location, comprehensive amenities and strong civic backing, the center is well-positioned for future growth and continues to fulfill its original mission as a vibrant hub for entertainment, sports and community life in Nebraska.