Where to Go for Events and Concerts in Casper, WY

Jake Hoffman

Over the years, a lot of memories have been made at Ford Wyoming Center, which hosts a variety of events and concerts in Casper, WY. “We’re the largest arena in the state with seating up to 8,000, so that makes us the hub for large events,” says Amanda Flanagan, assistant general manager at Oak View Group, which manages the center.

Casper’s size, location in Central Wyoming, and excellent airport and freeway access have made the Ford Wyoming Center a popular stop from the time it opened in 1982. “In the live entertainment industry, routing is very important so we’re attractive to promoters of all kinds of events,” Flanagan says.

From rock concerts and monster trucks to the Nutcracker and Harlem Globetrotters, the center has pretty much hosted it all.

It’s also a major player in Wyoming’s sports scene. Since 2001, the center has hosted the College National Finals Rodeo, which brings nearly 400 men and women from all over the U.S. to Casper.

The Wyoming Amateur Wrestling Association puts on its championship at the center with about 1,000 competitors, and the Wild West Championships feature 1,200 wrestlers from 23 states.

The center is particularly important to Wyoming’s high school sports teams. It hosts events like the Casper Volleyball Invitational and Compete Casper Classic, a basketball tournament. The Wyoming High School Activities Association puts on several state championships, too, including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, marching band and cheer.

“To be in front of 5,000 spectators is an experience of a lifetime for these kids,” Flanagan says.

In addition to unforgettable events, the Ford Wyoming Center also brings revenue to Casper. “When we host these events, we see a direct economic impact of $24 million a year,” Flanagan says.