History

For years, civic leaders in Augusta debated the need for a large, multi-purpose event facility that was more than a sports arena and would create a positive economic impact for the region. With community support, as well as land deeded to the City of Augusta for $1.00 from the Capitol Board of Trade, the Augusta Civic Center opened on January 6, 1973. At an original construction cost of $3,000,000 paid by the city, the Augusta Civic Center became Maine’s premier event center, hosting a variety of well-attended events that brought fans to Augusta!

The multi-million dollar project was constructed by Stewart and Williams Construction Company, and designed by Bunker & Savage Architects. The project was managed by Paul G. Poulin, Augusta City Manager, Stanley Sproul, Augusta City Mayor, the Augusta City Council, and Lionel Dubay, Augusta City Recreation Director who became the first director of the Augusta Civic Center.

The Maine Agricultural Trade Show was one of the first events to be hosted in January 1973 – and 50 years later, in January 2023, the Civic Center will welcome the show again!

Of course, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that the Augusta Civic Center is the only location that hosted Elvis Presley on May 24, 1977. To this day, fans still talk about his performance!

So many memories created by our guests and fans, and we are humbled to be a part of these special moments!

As we look forward to celebrating 50 years of memories made at the Augusta Civic Center, we also are looking forward to seeing what the next 50 years brings!

The Augusta Civic Center, serving our community, one event at a time!