Celebrating 10 years of Rogers Place: The building that defines our city

Written by Alicia Labine and Orlah Moore

Ten years ago, a new era began for a city defined by its hockey team

Edmonton Oilers fans celebrating a goal by the Oilers in the Moss Pit during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Photo: Alicia Labine/Edmonton Edge

Rogers Place celebrated its 10-year anniversary earlier this month. Edmontonians have spent time reflecting on how this building has become the city’s identity.

“Over the past decade, Rogers Place has become more than a building. It’s where Edmontonians have come to celebrate and connect,” said Mayor Andrew Knack, in a press release.

The arena transformed Edmonton’s downtown core by sparking the development of Ice District Plaza. It also marked a transition in Edmonton Oilers hockey, as the team made the playoffs for the first time in 11 years during their inaugural season at Rogers Place.

The Edmonton Oilers line up for the Canadian national anthem ahead of a regular season hockey game. Photo: Alicia Labine/Edmonton Edge

A second home

“Walking into the building for the first time [after it was opened] put me at ease, because it felt like a new era for this team,” said Shaan Chahal – an Edmonton Oilers season ticket holder of 20 years. “The arena definitely has felt like a second home, ever since the beginning.”

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl aren’t the only superstars that have performed in the venue, but iconic artists like Paul McCartney, Elton John, Garth Brooks and Carrie Underwood, have performed there.

Rogers Place is one of North America’s top sports and entertainment destinations, solidifying Edmonton’s reputation as a must-see sports destination.

Rogers Place photographed from a crosswalk outside of the building. Photo: Alicia Labine/Edmonton Edge

Edmonton’s economy has seen an estimated $3.2 billion impact since the arena’s creation and has generated 10,000+ jobs through the ICE District.

Since the increased economic activity, the downtown area has seen new housing development and business opportunities.

Chahal’s apartment sits right above the pedway to Rogers Place. Providing perfect accessibility to hockey games and concerts.

“The development of housing in Ice District has built a community and neighbourhood crowded with young professionals. It’s become a great place to live and network,” said Chahal.