By Victor Kaisar

30th Anniversary

PG councillors want community inclusion as CN Centre celebrates 30 years this September

May 4, 2025 | 1:08 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — A pair of Prince George City Councillors will be presenting a motion Monday (May 5) that aims to direct staff to begin working on a plan to celebrate 30 years of the CN Centre with a “fun, financially accessible, safe, and community-oriented” event.

Formerly known as the Prince George Multiplex, the arena is home to the Prince George Cougars, though it has also hosted numerous concerts, trade shows, festivals, graduations and more after it opened on Sept. 30, 1995.

“We know staff are already well underway planning a series of events to mark the anniversary, from key concerts to Cougars-focused activations, to other venue celebrations throughout September,” the notice of motion from Councillors Kyle Sampson and Brian Skakun said.

“What we’re doing with this motion is adding direction and support from Council to ensure that there is also a public-facing, community celebration that’s fun, inclusive, accessible, and affordable… something the public can take part in and enjoy, and likely modest in cost.”

Assuming the motion is included on the agenda for the May 26 council meeting, Sampson and Skakun want staff to return with a report by June 23 that will outline options, budgets, and a proposed plan to mark the anniversary.

On Demand

December 9, 2025: CKPG News on Demand

5h ago

Art Project

From "eyesore" to beauty: new art project aims to help revitalize downtown

7h ago

Prince George Spruce Kings

Spruce Kings ride winning streak into crucial road matchups

7h ago

“Whether it’s an open house with a public skate, food, music, and activities, a throwback showcase concert, or a localized celebration that fits the venue, the intent of the motion is to create a moment that brings people together to celebrate the CN Centre’s role in shaping Prince George’s culture, economy, and sense of pride,” the pair said.

The motion also wants staff to look at potential partnership and funding opportunities for the 30th anniversary celebrations that could include – but isn’t limited to – CN Rail, which has had naming rights to the facility since 2005. That deal was recently extended until 2030.

“We’re asking staff to return a report with celebration options, budget implications, and a proposed plan, and making it clear that Council is open to supporting this through Council Contingency, provided the plan aligns with the intent of being truly community-facing, meaningful, and accessible,” the notice of motion said.

“This is about celebrating the milestone anniversary of this flagship municipal facility as a community.”