Missouri State Fair opens new $31M Governor Michael L. Parson Arena

The Governor Michael L. Parson Arena has officially opened at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The multi-use facility, located at the southwest corner of the fairgrounds, cost $31 million to complete over a two-year construction period.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe described the arena as a “world class facility.” The project was supported by the Missouri Legislature, which allocated over $70 million for various infrastructure updates to the fairgrounds. Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Rusty Black noted the investment is expected to generate tourism for the state.

A second phase of funding has been approved by the legislature to add stalling facilities for equine and livestock shows. The rodeo is among the first events scheduled to take place in the new arena.