Decatur Civic Center | Decatur

The Decatur Civic Center is a key event and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Decatur, Illinois. It serves as a multi-purpose facility designed to host a wide variety of events ranging from concerts, theatrical performances, trade shows, sports, community gatherings, and ice skating.

Location and Contact

Address: 1 Gary K. Anderson Plaza, Decatur, IL 62523

Phone: (217) 422-7300

Its central location makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike, often serving as a hub for cultural and social activities in the city.

Facilities

1. First National Bank of Decatur Arena

The arena is the largest space within the Civic Center, offering approximately 28,000 square feet of flexible floor space.

It can accommodate up to 3,200 people for events.

The arena supports a wide range of uses, including concerts, trade shows, conventions, sporting events such as indoor soccer or wrestling, and seasonal ice skating.

The floor can be adapted for different setups, making it highly versatile.

During fall and winter months, the arena transforms into an ice rink, welcoming public skating sessions with admission fees around $6, plus $2 for skate rentals.

2. Theater

The Civic Center houses a 460-seat theater designed primarily for live performances, including plays, musicals, comedy shows, and other theatrical productions.

The theater features a professional stage, lighting, and sound systems, creating an intimate setting ideal for cultural and performing arts.

3. Meeting Rooms and Upper Lobby

These spaces are used for smaller gatherings such as meetings, workshops, banquets, receptions, and community events.

The meeting rooms can be configured to suit different group sizes and event types, equipped with necessary audio-visual equipment.

Types of Events Hosted

The Decatur Civic Center hosts an eclectic mix of events year-round. These include:

Live music concerts and tribute shows featuring local and touring artists.

Theatrical productions ranging from classic plays to modern performances.

Community and senior events, such as the Annual Seniorama, celebrating older adults with activities and entertainment.

Sports and wrestling events providing family-friendly entertainment.

Trade shows and conventions attracting business and industry professionals from the region.

Seasonal activities like public ice skating and holiday events.

Accessibility and Amenities

The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, providing accommodations for guests with disabilities.

There is ample parking nearby, including street parking and designated lots.

Concession stands are available during larger events, offering refreshments and snacks.

The Civic Center staff provides event support services, including ticketing, security, and technical assistance.

Recent and Upcoming Events

Recent seasons have featured a mix of performances such as tribute concerts to well-known artists like Janis Joplin and Pat Benatar, wrestling shows, murder mystery theater productions, and community celebrations. The diverse programming reflects the Civic Center’s role in supporting both entertainment and community engagement.

Overall, the Decatur Civic Center is a vital part of Decatur’s cultural landscape, providing a flexible, well-equipped venue that serves residents and visitors by hosting a rich variety of entertainment, sports, cultural, and community events.