A fitting finale: One last spin under the dome

They came to reminisce.

They came to share stories about milestone life experiences.

They came to make a new memory with family and friends.

They came to pay homage to the dome that was a catalyst for Fort Worth business, development and entertainment for almost six decades.

On Sept. 20, an estimated 2,000 attendees gathered for the final event in the Fort Worth Convention Center Arena as the storied “flying saucer.” Aptly named “It’s Goin’ Down,” the free event provided Fort Worthians and guests from around the DFW region an opportunity to say farewell to a familiar friend.

See the recap video here.

See a photo gallery here.

Attendees followed swirling, colorful pathways that converged at the arena’s entrance to reveal a 10,000-square-foot historical exhibition, with 10-foot walls exploring the legacy and transformation of downtown since the arena’s dedication in 1968. Sections included building history and future, music, sports, entertainment, conventions and commerce, politics and religion.

And the music played on. Emerald City Band performed high-energy covers from artists throughout the decades. Since the 1980s, ECB has graced stages at prestigious events, including two performances at the White House and Super Bowl XLV. Now they can add the FWCC Arena to their portfolio, along with Eddy Arnold (who opened the arena with Bob Hope), Paul McCartney, Cher, Elton John, Garth Brooks, BB King, U2, The Jacksons, BTS and hundreds more.

A face painter, caricature artist, and vintage and digital photo booths added to the festival atmosphere. Attendees also visited booths with several local businesses, voter registration organizations and the City’s 2050 Planning team.

“What a heartfelt farewell to the gathering place for generations of Fort Worth residents,” said Cynthia Sanchez Serrano, director of Public Events, City of Fort Worth. “We paid tribute to the arena and, more importantly, we recognized individuals who made decades of historic experiences possible. Although people will gather here differently in the future, the center’s role in Fort Worth will continue to forge human connections and create new opportunities for visitors and the Fort Worth community.”

The event was made possible by the City’s Culture & Tourism Fund, the Fort Worth Promotion & Development Fund, and multiple nonprofit and for-profit sponsors.

What’s next?

The arena dome is scheduled for implosion in early 2027 to make room for a 21st century catalyst: a modernized, flexible convention center to level up Fort Worth’s ability to compete for larger, concurrent meetings and events.

The $606 million expansion, funded by hospitality taxes, will deliver more than 257,000 contiguous square feet of exhibition space, a new divisible 40,000-square-foot ballroom, 39 meeting rooms and two outdoor terraces overlooking downtown to the north.

The remaining existing center will continue to be open and operational during the expansion project and will undergo sequenced upgrades to seamlessly integrate with the new building. Completion of the project is anticipated in early 2030.

See the expansion preview video here.

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