Duluth Entertainment Convention Center and Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Celebrate Major Milestones

The two Northland institutions have been cornerstones of the community for decades.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:07am

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As WDIO celebrates its 60th anniversary, two other Duluth institutions - the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) and the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO) - are also marking major milestones. The DECC has served as a cultural anchor in Duluth since the 1960s, when local business leaders fought to make the auditorium and arena a reality. The DSSO has called the DECC home since its very first concert, with one longtime member recalling rehearsals happening while the venue was still under construction. Both organizations say their partnership has enriched the community for decades, with the DECC providing the perfect performance space for the DSSO's concerts.

Why it matters

The DECC and DSSO are two of Duluth's most iconic cultural institutions, serving as gathering places for the community and showcasing the arts for generations. Their enduring partnership and shared history reflect the resilience and vibrancy of Duluth's arts and entertainment scene, even as the city has evolved over the years.

The details

The DECC was nearly not built in the 1960s, but local business leaders campaigned tirelessly to make it a reality. Since then, it has hosted countless performances, concerts, and events, becoming a beloved community hub. The DSSO has been a resident of the DECC since its very first concert, with one longtime member recalling that rehearsals happened while the venue was still under construction. The two organizations say their partnership has been crucial, with the DECC providing the perfect stage for the DSSO's musical performances.

  • The DECC was nearly not built in the 1960s, but local business leaders campaigned to make it a reality.
  • The DSSO has been a resident of the DECC since its very first concert in the 1960s.

The players

Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC)

A cultural anchor in Duluth, Minnesota that has served as a gathering place and performance venue for the community since the 1960s.

Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO)

A symphony orchestra based in Duluth, Minnesota that has called the DECC home since its very first concert in the 1960s.

Lucie Amundsen

Communications manager at the DECC.

Dirk Meyer

Music Director of the DSSO.

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What they’re saying

“People tell me memories all the time, seeing Elvis, Johnny Cash, Kiss. There's been something for everybody.”

— Lucie Amundsen, Communications manager at the DECC

“I'm sure glad it came to fruition after all. We've been there from the very beginning.”

— Dirk Meyer, Music Director of the DSSO

“Our longest standing member told me the rehearsals for the very first concert happened while they were still nailing down the carpet. We've been there ever since.”

— Dirk Meyer, Music Director of the DSSO

What’s next

This weekend, the DSSO continues its tradition with a Saturday night performance featuring Sibelius, Dvořák, and Shostakovich.

The takeaway

The enduring partnership between the DECC and DSSO reflects the resilience and vibrancy of Duluth's arts and entertainment scene, even as the city has evolved over the decades. These two iconic institutions have shaped memories, inspired audiences, and provided a gathering place for the community to experience the arts.