Carlson Center

The Carlson Center stands as the premier entertainment and sports destination for Interior Alaska, situated along the scenic banks of the Chena River in Fairbanks. Opened in 1990 and named in honor of former Borough Mayor John A. Carlson, the venue serves as a central hub for the community. Located near the historic Pioneer Park, this versatile arena provides a professional setting that transforms the city into a major stop for world-class productions. For comedy fans, the Carlson Center is the primary venue in Fairbanks for high-profile national tours. As a multi-purpose facility, it hosts a diverse range of events from collegiate hockey to large-scale concerts, but it is especially known for bringing top-tier stand-up to the North. Notable comedians such as Jeff Dunham and Matt Rife have performed on its stage, offering audiences a vibrant atmosphere to experience some of the biggest names in comedy within a welcoming environment.