Alerus Center Celebrates 25 Years in Grand Forks

The multipurpose arena has hosted major concerts and events since its opening in 2001.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Alerus Center, a multipurpose arena in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The venue has hosted a wide range of events, including a record-breaking Metallica concert in 2018 that set facility marks for highest-grossing ticket sales and food and beverage sales.

Why it matters

The Alerus Center has been a cornerstone of the Grand Forks community for the past 25 years, providing a venue for major concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment. Its success and longevity highlight the importance of such facilities in mid-sized cities, helping to attract visitors and drive economic activity.

The details

In September 2018, the rock band Metallica played at the Alerus Center, setting facility records for highest-grossing ticket sales as well as food and beverage sales. According to Alerus Center General Manager Anna Rosburg, the success of the evening was not solely due to the concert itself, but also the venue's ability to accommodate large events and provide a top-notch experience for attendees.

  • The Alerus Center opened in 2001.
  • Metallica played a record-breaking concert at the Alerus Center in September 2018.
  • The Alerus Center is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Alerus Center

A multipurpose arena located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, that has hosted a wide range of events, including concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment, since its opening in 2001.

Anna Rosburg

The General Manager of the Alerus Center.

Metallica

A popular American heavy metal band that played a record-breaking concert at the Alerus Center in 2018.

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What they’re saying

“I can't imagine Grand Forks without the Alerus Center. We're so fortunate that we have this building. We're unique that a town of this size has these two fantastic venues.”

— Anna Rosburg, Alerus Center General Manager (Grand Forks Herald)

The takeaway

The Alerus Center's 25-year history as a premier entertainment venue in Grand Forks highlights the importance of such facilities in mid-sized cities, helping to attract visitors, drive economic activity, and provide a hub for the community's cultural and recreational life.