Dow Event Center | Saginaw

The Dow Event Center, located at 303 Johnson Street in downtown Saginaw, Michigan, is a prominent multi-purpose venue with a rich history and a vital role in the region’s entertainment and cultural scene. Originally opened in 1972 as the Saginaw County Event Center, it was designed to serve as a hub for sporting events, concerts, trade shows, and community gatherings. The facility underwent a significant $17 million renovation in 2003, modernizing its infrastructure and amenities, and was subsequently renamed the Dow Event Center in 2004 after securing a naming rights partnership with The Dow Chemical Company.

Facilities and Venue Spaces

The Dow Event Center is composed of several distinct venues within the complex, each designed to accommodate a wide variety of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale performances:

Wendler Arena: The centerpiece of the facility, Wendler Arena, spans 25,000 square feet and features flexible seating configurations. It can hold up to 7,600 spectators for concerts and approximately 5,527 for hockey games. The arena serves as the home rink for the Saginaw Spirit, a junior hockey team competing in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The arena is equipped with professional-grade lighting, sound systems, and a regulation ice surface, making it ideal for sporting events, concerts, and family shows.

The Theater: With a seating capacity of 2,276, The Theater offers a more traditional performance environment. It is outfitted with professional lighting, sound, and stage equipment, supporting theatrical productions, concerts, comedy shows, and dance performances. The Theater’s design emphasizes acoustics and audience sightlines to create an immersive experience.

The Red Room: This flexible event space measures 120 feet by 80 feet and includes a permanent bar, stage, and full lighting and sound capabilities. It can host up to 1,056 guests for banquets or 780 for theater-style seating, making it suitable for receptions, corporate events, weddings, and smaller concerts or shows.

The Garden Room: Smaller and more intimate, The Garden Room measures 47 feet by 37 feet and offers banquet seating for 80 guests and theater-style seating for 150. This space is often used for meetings, seminars, or private events.

Jolt Credit Union Event Park: An outdoor venue featuring a 10,000-square-foot pavilion and main stage, this park hosts concerts, festivals, and community events during warmer months. It provides a flexible open-air environment ideal for large gatherings and seasonal celebrations.

Events and Programming

The Dow Event Center hosts a wide range of events year-round, including live concerts, sporting events, trade shows, family entertainment, comedy acts, and cultural festivals. The venue attracts national touring acts, regional events, and local community programs, contributing significantly to the cultural vitality of Saginaw and the surrounding region. Notable acts and events often include popular musicians, comedians, ice shows, and exhibitions.

Accessibility and Amenities

The venue is designed to accommodate diverse audiences with several accessibility features:

Multiple parking options are available, including a front lot directly adjacent to the building, a nearby 400 Lot, and a parking ramp with dedicated handicapped parking on the first floor.

Inside, accessible seating areas are available upon request, ensuring inclusive experiences for all attendees.

The facility includes modern concession stands, restrooms, and meeting rooms to support visitor comfort and convenience.

The staff provides excellent customer service, including ticketing assistance and event coordination.

Location and Community Impact

Situated in the heart of downtown Saginaw, the Dow Event Center plays a central role in the city’s economic and social landscape. It draws visitors from across the region, supporting local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and retail shops. The venue’s events contribute to the community’s cultural enrichment and provide entertainment options that enhance quality of life.

Contact and Additional Information

For tickets, event schedules, or venue rentals, visitors can contact the Dow Event Center box office at (989) 759-1330 or call the main phone line at (989) 759-1320. More information, including upcoming events, can be found on their official website.

Overall, the Dow Event Center stands as a versatile, well-equipped venue that continues to serve as a key destination for entertainment and community gatherings in Saginaw, combining historic significance with modern amenities to meet the needs of a wide-ranging audience.