The Fort Worth Convention Center Arena, a iconic building in the city, will be demolished early next year to make way for a modern expansion. The arena will host a free party, its final event, on September 20, from noon to 4 p.m. The event, called It’s Goin’ Down, will feature live music, family-friendly activities, interactive experiences, commemorative merchandise, giveaways, and a historical exhibit.

A Sentimental Piece for the City

The city of Fort Worth wanted to give the arena a fitting farewell, as it has been a part of the city’s fabric for many years. According to Andra Bennett, a city spokesperson, the arena has hosted numerous events, including concerts, graduations, baptisms, and engagements. The city will release more details about the event soon, including a website with images of artifacts and an invitation for residents to submit their own photos or memorabilia.

The arena, which was dedicated in 1968, was considered modern for its time. It has hosted many famous acts, including Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, and Paul McCartney. The arena has also served as a venue for high school and college graduations, with the last graduates crossing the stage in May.

A New Expansion

The city will replace the arena with a modern expansion, which will include 359,174 square feet of rentable space. The expansion will feature a 40,000-square-foot ballroom, which will be 43% larger than the ballroom on the convention center’s south side. A tower on the addition’s transparent glass facade will face Main Street, toward the Tarrant County Courthouse and its tower.

Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.