The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is known for its iconic fairgrounds and annual exhibitions, including the PNE Fair and the Summer Night Concerts.
So it was very exciting when they announced plans to take things up a notch with a new state-of-the-art outdoor Amphitheatre. It is set to become a world-class venue for concerts, arts and culture programming, community events, esports events, and more.
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Although the idea was announced in 2021, there wasn’t much movement until last year. Vancouver City Council took a significant step towards the construction of the new PNE Amphitheatre in July of 2023 by approving an increase in loan financing for the project. The design phase then started, and construction is set to start in 2024, with the grand opening scheduled for 2026.
The capital budget for the project has risen from $64.8 million to $103.7 million. The majority of the funding, $98.9 million, will come from loans provided by the city’s capital financing fund.
The PNE will repay these loans over time, with the base loan of $77.8 million expected to be repaid in approximately 11 years. A second loan of up to $21.1 million will be provided for additional design elements to be repaid in around five years.
“The PNE is excited to see this project move forward – this new investment will mean technology, features, and sound mitigation will be state-of-the-art from the moment it opens,” said Shelley Frost, PNE CEO. “This new space will be a beautiful, inclusive venue, welcoming talent from across the world and enhancing summertime experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
The new PNE Amphitheatre will have a maximum capacity of approximately 10,000 and is expected to host over 75 performances per year. This includes 24 commercial shows, 22 community, arts, and culture shows, 14 corporate shows, and 15 PNE Fair shows during the Summer Night Concerts. The venue is estimated to attract over 340,000 attendees annually, providing a much-needed year-round, flexible-use venue for the city.
Renderings of the New PNE Amphitheatre
What makes this new venue so special is not just its capacity and versatility, but also its design and amenities. The Amphitheatre will have covered seating and best-in-class amenities, including accessible washroom facilities, merchandise sales, food and beverage concessions, digital signage, and seamless Wi-Fi. There will also be hospitality suites, banquet/lounge space, common areas, and fully integrated premium catering options.
The PNE Amphitheatre is not just an exciting development for Vancouver, but also for the province of British Columbia. The venue is an opportunity to showcase BC products, suppliers, expertise, and core industries to a wider audience.
Additionally, the spectacular venue design incorporates daylighted streams, native greenery, and stunning natural vistas, making it a true reflection of the beauty of the region.
Another unique aspect of the Amphitheatre is its commitment to sustainability. The venue is being built to Passive Haus, LEED, and Salmon-Safe certification standards, ensuring that it is both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. The venue’s design features one of the largest free-span timber roof structures in the world, making it an impressive feat of engineering and architecture.
The PNE Amphitheatre will not be just a new venue, but also hopes to serve as a landmark for the city of Vancouver.
The Amphitheatre promises to provide an unparalleled experience for visitors, whether they are attending a concert, a community event, or a corporate function. With its world-class amenities, sustainable design, and stunning location, it is sure to become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
