Construction begins after the 2026 Alaska State Fair
Palmer, Alaska – The Alaska State Fair is excited to announce the Borealis Theatre Rebuild, a major transformation of one of Alaska’s most iconic concert venues.
Known for bringing the biggest concert series to the State of Alaska, the Borealis Theatre offers something few venues can match—live music surrounded by the stunning Chugach Mountains. Now, the iconic venue is getting bigger and better.
The rebuild will increase the theatre’s capacity from 5,200 to 6,500 guests, including the lawn area, and feature a larger stage designed to accommodate bigger productions and major national artists. Significant sound upgrades will further elevate the concert experience, while the lawn area will be regraded with an increased gradient to provide guests with improved views of the stage.
The project will also include two new larger restroom facilities, replacing the existing Borealis and West restrooms. The new restrooms will be accessible from both inside and outside the theatre and will include family restrooms and an adult changing room.
“The Borealis Theatre has become an iconic part of the Alaska State Fair experience, and we’re incredibly excited to take it to the next level,” said Blake Allen, CEO of the Alaska State Fair. “With a bigger stage, increased capacity, improved sound and better views, we’ll be able to bring even bigger artists and productions to the Fair. We’re building on what makes the Borealis Theatre so special and creating an experience that will give Alaskans even more unforgettable memories for years to come.”
Construction is expected to begin immediately by Steppers Construction Inc. following the 2026 Alaska State Fair on September 7, with the project scheduled for completion before the 2027 Alaska State Fair opens August 20.
The Borealis Theatre Rebuild is an investment in the future of the Alaska State Fair concert series—and in creating even more opportunities for Alaskans to experience incredible artists, unforgettable performances and live music against one of the most spectacular backdrops in the state.
As a private nonprofit organization, the Alaska State Fair is proud to reinvest in the Fairgrounds and continually improve the experience for the Alaskan community. The anticipated cost of the project is estimated at around $10 million dollars and will be funded through a responsible financial strategy which includes a concentrated focus on the pursuit of sponsorship funds.
Visit alaskastatefair.org for additional information on the 2026 concert series. For more information, contact Melissa Keefe, director of marketing and communications, at [email protected].