Skip To Main Content

Western Michigan University Athletics

arena

General

WMU ATHLETICS CELEBRATES LAUNCH OF KALAMAZOO EVENT CENTER WEBSITE


KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan University Athletics is proud to recognize the official launch of the Kalamazoo Event Center website, a major step forward in the development of the future home for WMU Men's and Women's Basketball and Men's Ice Hockey.

The new site is now live at kalamazooeventcenter.com, providing the public with access to project updates, event previews, vendor opportunities, and more.

"We're thrilled to see the next step in this visionary project come to life with the launch of the Kalamazoo Event Center website," said WMU Vice President and Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae. "This facility will be a game-changer for our basketball and hockey programs—and will elevate the student-athlete experience while strengthening our connection with Bronco Nation and the Kalamazoo community. We can't wait to welcome our students and fans to the best facility in the country and the Home of the Broncos."

Set to open in Fall 2027, the Kalamazoo Event Center is a transformative 430,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of Downtown Kalamazoo. The venue will bring together WMU student-athletes, fans, alumni, and the greater
community for unforgettable game-day experiences and over 230 events annually.

The website serves as a central hub for construction updates, facility features, and opportunities for future partners and vendors. It will be the go-to resource for all things related to the Event Center as it moves toward completion.

"This project represents a bold and exciting future for Western Michigan Athletics and the city of Kalamazoo," said Bartholomae. "We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with Greenleaf Hospitality Group in making this shared vision a reality."

In addition to serving as the home for WMU Athletics and the Kalamazoo Wings, the Event Center is designed to support major concerts, conventions, and community gatherings—creating an economic and cultural impact across Southwest Michigan.

Fans, families, and supporters can stay informed and engaged at every step of the journey by visiting kalamazooeventcenter.com.

A CENTRAL HUB FOR INFORMATION, CONNECTION, AND OPPORTUNITY

The newly launched website offers a user-friendly experience with key features, including:
  • Project Overview: Learn about the building's design, size, and capabilities—including an 8,000-seat configuration for concerts and shows, a 6,500-seat setup for sports, a full practice ice sheet, multipurpose event space, and a new downtown parking structure.
     
  • Community Updates: Track progress, access renderings, and stay informed about key milestones as the project moves toward completion.
     
  • Vendor & Partner Interest: Businesses, suppliers, and event organizers can express interest in working with the Event Center by completing an online form.
 
  • Premium Experiences: Get a first look at how Kalamazoo Event Center elevates sports and entertainment experiences, setting a new standard for live events in Southwest Michigan.
     
  • Frequently Asked Questions: Get answers about the Event Center's construction, timeline, amenities, and impact on the local community.
This site is designed to be the first step in building lasting relationships with local businesses, regional and national event organizers, and future partners who see the promise of this dynamic new venue.

A DESTINATION FOR ALL

The Kalamazoo Event Center is more than just a venue—it's a cornerstone of downtown revitalization. With over half a million annual visitors anticipated, this space is designed to host a diverse mix of events, including:
  • Venue for professional, collegiate and high school athletics
     
  • National touring concerts and performances
     
  • Family-friendly shows and exhibitions
     
  • Community events, commencements, and trade expos
     
The facility will also house academic and athletic support spaces for student-athletes, food and beverage destinations, and flexible event rooms to accommodate a wide range of private and public gatherings.

The Event Center is poised to generate more than $50 million in economic impact each year—fueling new opportunities for small businesses, job creation, tourism, and local pride.

PARTNERSHIPS & LOCAL OPPORTUNITY

Greenleaf Hospitality Group invites prospective vendors, performers, promoters, community groups, and businesses of all sizes to explore opportunities to engage with the Event Center now and in the years ahead.

Whether interested in hosting an event, becoming a supplier, exploring sponsorship, or simply learning more about how this venue can serve personal or organizational needs, Kalamazoo Event Center's website is the starting point.

Greenleaf Hospitality Group is excited to grow its network of collaborators and build a venue that reflects the heart of Kalamazoo—innovative, inclusive, and built for everyone.

VISIT TODAY

The Kalamazoo Event Center is a once-in-a-generation project that will transform how people gather, compete, celebrate, and connect in southwest Michigan. We encourage everyone—from curious neighbors to major event producers —to visit kalamazooeventcenter.com to learn more.

For inquiries or to express interest in working with us, please visit the CONNECT WITH US page on the website. Also, follow us on all social media platforms @KzooEventCenter.
 
 
Print Friendly Version