$10M Rebuild of Borealis Theatre at Alaska State Fair
A rendering of the Borealis Theater rebuild, slated to be completed by the start of the 2027 Alaska State Fair.
Photo Credit: Alaska State Fair
Attendees of the 2026 ConocoPhillips Alaska Concert Series at the Alaska State Fair can take a last look at the Borealis Theatre as it currently exists. Upon the conclusion of the series, which runs all three weekends of the fair, the outdoor venue will be rebuilt, bigger than ever.
$10 Million Investment
The rebuild will increase the theater’s capacity from 5,200 to 6,500 guests. Significant sound upgrades and a larger stage will accommodate bigger productions and major national artists. And the mound of earth beneath the lawn area will be regraded to improve sight lines and surrounded with a retaining wall.
“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,” says Alaska State Fair CEO Blake Allen. “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.”
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September 2026
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 concert venue and will include family restrooms and an adult changing room.
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.
Wasilla-based contractor Steppers Construction is ready to begin work immediately following the 2026 Alaska State Fair on September 7. The theater rebuild is scheduled for completion before the next fair opens August 20, 2027.
The rebuild follows the addition of a new multipurpose event center near the Purple Gate of the fairgrounds in Palmer, built within the last year, and the reconstruction of the Sluicebox building in 2023.
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