25th Anniversary

Van Andel Arena opened its doors for the first time on October 8, 1996. Two days later, on October 10th, Van Andel Arena hosted its first concert featuring Neil Diamond. Since then the arena has hosted numerous sporting events, concerts, family shows and various other events providing premier entertainment to the West Michigan community. 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of Van Andel Arena. We're celebrating by taking a look back at all the events throughout the years with historical photos, fun facts and staff and community memories posted on the website and social media accounts: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Located in one of America’s hottest cities, Van Andel Arena is a 12,000-plus capacity arena managed by ASM Global. Van Andel Arena is the Must Play Destination in Michigan's fastest-growing market of Grand Rapids and is home to the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team. Take a look at some of the photos from previous shows below.

WOOD TV Story

Fox 17 TV Story

MLIVE Story

CONCERTS

25th Anniversary Interview with
Birgit Klohs

25th Anniversary Interview with
Joe Jones

Listen Now

Van Andel Arena opened its doors in 1996 but the plan to construct the arena was put in place in 1991. In March of 1991 fifty members of the Grand Vision Advisory Committee gathered to discuss the idea of the construction of a modern facility set to host the biggest names in entertainment.

On February 8, 1995 ground broke on the construction of Van Andel Arena. One thousand workers worked over the course of 2 years on the construction. Then on October 10, 1996 the doors opened for the first concert ever to perform on the Van Andel Arena stage featuring Neil Diamond and Grand Rapids hasn't been the same since.

Van Andel was the spark that Grand Rapids needed. More than an arena, Van Andel Arena is the heart of the city providing the best in entertainment for the past 25 years.