Full Breakdown
Grand Casino Arena: A New Era for St. Paul's Sports and Entertainment Venue
9/4/2025, 2:47:09 PM
Renaming and Sponsorship Transition
The Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, has officially been renamed Grand Casino Arena as of September 2025. This change marks the end of a 25-year association with Xcel Energy, which served as the naming rights sponsor since the arena's opening in 2000. The new name comes as part of a 14-year sponsorship agreement with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, operators of Grand Casino Hinckley and Grand Casino Mille Lacs. This partnership aims to enhance the fan experience at the venue, promising new signage and immersive elements that reflect the culture of the Mille Lacs Band.
Venue History and Significance
Grand Casino Arena, located at 199 W Kellogg Blvd, is home to the Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League and the Minnesota Frost of the Professional Women's Hockey League. The arena opened in September 2000, replacing the St. Paul Civic Center after the relocation of the NHL's Minnesota Stars. It has since hosted significant events, including the NHL All-Star Game and the NCAA Frozen Four. The venue has a seating capacity of 20,554 and has welcomed major artists like Shania Twain and Taylor Swift, who share the record for the most consecutive sold-out shows.
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
The first concert under the new name will feature country artist Jason Aldean on September 6, 2025, followed by the Minnesota Wild's pre-season game against the Dallas Stars on September 25. Craig Leipold, owner of the Minnesota Wild, emphasized the importance of the Mille Lacs Band's involvement, stating, “The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe has been a passionate supporter and investor in St. Paul, and we are thrilled for their partnership and support of the Minnesota Wild in our arena.”
Official Statements and Responses
Virgil Wind, Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, remarked on the significance of the name change, stating, “Beyond the business value, this is also a chance to tell our story.” Meanwhile, Xcel Energy has confirmed its ongoing relationship with the Minnesota Wild as a business and community partner, despite the renaming.
Criticism and Opposition
While the renaming has been largely welcomed, some fans have expressed nostalgia for the Xcel Energy Center name, which has been associated with numerous memorable events over the years. The transition to Grand Casino Arena represents a significant shift in branding that may take time for some patrons to adjust to.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant discrepancies reported regarding the renaming event or the sponsorship details. However, the full impact of the new branding on community engagement and fan experience remains to be seen as events unfold.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe has been a passionate supporter and investor in St. Paul, and we are thrilled for their partnership and support of the Minnesota Wild in our arena,” — Craig Leipold, Owner of the Minnesota Wild
- “Beyond the business value, this is also a chance to tell our story.” — Virgil Wind, Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe
The renaming of the arena to Grand Casino Arena signifies a new chapter for this prominent venue, with expectations for enhanced community involvement and a revitalized fan experience.
