Grand opening scheduled this month for Wilson Logistics Arena

A grand opening is scheduled this month for the new multipurpose arena at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds & Event Center.

Wilson Logistics Arena is slated to debut Jan. 11 at the 3001 N. Grant Ave. fairgrounds, according to a news release. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, presentations, food and tours, followed that evening by a ticketed concert by country-pop touring artist Russell Dickerson.

“This grand opening event marks the culmination of hard work and dedication from the Ozark Empire staff, board, construction crew and community," said Aaron Owen, Ozark empire Fairgrounds CEO, in the release. "We look forward to providing unforgettable experiences for years to come."

Killian Construction Co. served as general contractor for the roughly $28 million, 164,000-square-foot arena designed by BRP Architects, that replaced a 2,800-seat livestock arena built in the 1960s.

Wilson Logistics Arena, which has 6,300 seats, also will be home to the Ozark Lunkers indoor arena football league, which begins play in June.