I am pleasantly surprised that this year the internet is trodding along at a normal speed. Shock and awe have ensued. But that hasn’t stopped my plethora of appointments so I’m still a couple days behind on posting. Sure I could do so on my phone, but there are some things I like to do sitting in a regular chair so my hands don’t start falling asleep (neck issues).

So this week’s entry is a brand new build at the Missouri State Fairgrounds named after the last governor, Michael L. Parson. Full name of this place is Governor Michael L. Parson Arena. Quite a lengthy title. Hence the shortform going forward is Parson Arena. It really is a behemoth of a building! Photos below and then some details I’ve found for today’s post in case you have the extra time and interest.

I have not been inside this arena and probably won’t for quite some time. But I did find some info on capacity. It holds 10,000 people. That includes 6,000 permanent seats. But I think the following list will summarize it better than I can.

• Total Square Footage: 150,000 square feet
• Arena Floor Dimensions and Square Footage: 270’ x 150’ (40,500 square feet)
• Restroom Available: Yes
• AC Available: Yes
• Heat Available: Yes
• Storage Room: Yes
• Overhead Doors: Yes (22’x16’)
• Seating Capacity:  6,000 – 10,000
• Concessions Stands: Yes, food and beverages are offered through the Missouri State Fairgrounds and their exclusive contracted vendors.
• Floor Type: Concrete (Dirt can be added for an additional fee)
• Showers/Wash Area: Yes
• Sound System: Yes, must contract with a third-party contractor to use existing sound equipment.

A VIP suite and a covered warm-up arena are available as add-ons.

I also learned about future scheduled events and how it’s being used going forward. Today, for example, it will feature the International Pro Rodeo Association—-Day 3 respectfully. There will be 2 days of “Zebra,Camel,Ostrich,Emu& Duck Races”. (I am shaking my head) Then there will be Military Appreciation Day exhibits (tomorrow) and Bullriding events before it’s open to all fairgoers on the last day of the fair, Aug. 23. One still has to pay entry to the fair so don’t interpret that as ‘free’. But I am impressed with most of its events. But the races mentioned above sound like an accident waiting to happen. Except for maybe the ducks. 😉

To see more photos and information on the arena, here’s a link. I hope you’ve enjoyed this informative Thursday Doors entry and head over to Dan’s @NoFacilities for more door wonderfulness.