Southeast Event Centre doubles down on community

As the grand opening celebration on Aug. 21 approaches for the Southeast Event Centre, the Southeast Events Group has decided to crank up the local celebration.

Gone is the planned ticketed evening concert that was to feature the Winnipeg-based Dirty Catfish Brass Band.

Instead, Michelle Sawatzy-Koop, director of communications, marketing and sales, said they wanted to keep things local and accessible to all.

“As we got closer to the event, we really wanted there to be more of a community feel to the grand opening evening celebration so we will be moving the concert earlier and outside,” she said. “From 5 to 7 p.m., we will focus on our local band, Endless Mixtape, and enjoy more of a patio party with great live music.”

That means all of the day’s events are free and open to the community.

Interim GM Michelle Bezditny said the Southeast Event Centre is more than just a building.

“It’s a beacon for community spirit, progress and togetherness,” she said. “The positive effects will extend far beyond Steinbach. We’re thrilled to welcome everyone to celebrate this exciting new chapter.”

The day’s celebration includes an official opening ceremony at 11 a.m., featuring guest speakers including Lt. Gov. Anita Neville, former local legend and professional and Olympic coach Ralph Krueger, and other local and provincial politicians.

A free community lunch begins at 12:30 p.m. followed by a 1 p.m. unveiling of the major donor wall, and an afternoon of bouncy castles, magic shows, face painting and balloon artistry.

The grand opening celebration patio party kicks off at 5 p.m.