The all new 68 million dollar Independence Events Center, a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose arena with 5,800 fixed seats, 25 luxury suites, a bar/grill and community ice rink has opened its doors for business. Planners have created a spacious feel, with wide concourses, seven full service box offices and plenty of bathrooms. As a plus, 2,000 free parking spaces are on site. Fans will appreciate that no seat is further away from the action than 16 rows.

The Arena is the home of the Missouri Mavericks professional hockey team and will serve as the venue for the team’s first season’s 32 games Over 500,000 people a year are expected to visit the Center for 100 events, including hockey, concerts or other events. Located at 19100 E. Valley View Parkway in Independence, (Kansas City metro area) the center is easily accessible from major east-west I-70 interstate and north-south highway Missouri 291.

Events already scheduled are: Tech N9ne’s K.O.D Tour, (Saturday, November 21), 25th Anniversary of Mannheim Steamroller (Thursday, December 17), Charlie Daniels Band Christmas (Friday, December 18), Extreme Ice Racing (Saturday and Sunday, January 2 – 3), Martina McBride and Trace Adkins Shine All Night Tour (Saturday, January 23), Kenny Rogers (Wednesday, February 10), Disney Live! Rockin’ Road Tour (Friday, February 19) and Riverdance – The Farewell Performances (Saturday and Sunday, February 20 – 21). Tickets and additional information can be found at www.independenceeventscenter.com. GetTix.net (toll free 866-443-8849) is the official ticketing provider for the Events Center.

Independence is best known as the place where thousands of pioneers began their journey west and the city president Harry S. Truman called home. Just east of Kansas City, the city boasts sixteen heritage attractions, including the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, Truman Home, (closed until late spring), Victorian mansions, frontier sites, children’s attractions, the largest public genealogy library in the nation and world renowned religious sites. The historic Square is filled with quaint specialty shops and restaurants or enjoy great contemporary shopping off I-70. Don’t miss the Bass Pro Outdoor World, golf courses, walking trails, outdoor recreation, water park, and a nice mix of over 200 restaurants, hotels and B & Bs.

Attractions, lodging, shopping, restaurants, maps, an interactive Visitors Guide, calendar of events, packages, discounts and coupons are available at www.visitindependence.com or call Independence Tourism toll free at (800) 748-7323 or local (816) 325-7111.