SaskTel Centre

If you're looking for the epicenter of energy and entertainment in Saskatchewan, the Saskatoon Arena, officially known as SaskTel Centre, is the place to be. Located in the city of Saskatoon, this multi-purpose venue is the largest in the region and serves as the main home for numerous sporting and cultural events that bring people together from all across Canada.

Opened in 1988, the arena can now accommodate up to 15,100 spectators for sporting events and over 13,000 people for concerts. It is the home arena for the Saskatoon Blades hockey club, the Saskatchewan Rush lacrosse team, and the Saskatoon Mamba basketball team. Each year, it hosts over 100 events, including thrilling games, performances by world music stars, and grand family shows.

The popularity of the "Saskatoon Arena" is due not only to its scale but also to its high level of organization. Following a major expansion in 2008–2009, the complex became even more comfortable and modern. Visitors value this venue for its excellent atmosphere of hospitality, well-thought-out infrastructure, and the opportunity to be part of world-class events, such as hockey championships.

To inquire about upcoming events, ticket availability, or suite bookings, you can contact the SaskTel Centre administration directly. This contact information will help you plan your visit as comfortably as possible.

Official contact details for the Saskatoon Arena are provided in the table below:

Life is in full swing year-round within the walls of this complex. The main activity here is, of course, cheering on the local teams. You can immerse yourself in the Canadian passion at Saskatoon Blades hockey games, feel the incredible rhythm of a Saskatchewan Rush lacrosse match, or enjoy dynamic basketball performed by the Saskatoon Mamba.

For music lovers, the Saskatoon Arena transforms into a grand concert hall. World stars perform here regularly, and high-quality sound and state-of-the-art lighting make every show unforgettable. Additionally, the arena often hosts spectacular ice performances, such as Stars on Ice, and other entertainment programs for the whole family.

Beyond the spectacles themselves, visitors can enjoy the modern amenities of the complex: updated food courts, lounge areas, and shops with merchandise from their favorite teams. It is the perfect place for those who want to feel the true energy of Saskatoon, whether in the heat of a sporting battle or to the sound of favorite hits in a packed stadium.

Getting to this entertainment hub is quite simple, as it is located in the city's North Industrial area. If you are traveling by car, head to 3515 Thatcher Ave. The arena has extensive parking facilities, making personal transport one of the most convenient ways to get there.

For those who prefer public transport, Saskatoon Transit bus routes are available. On major event days, the city often runs special shuttle buses that take fans and spectators directly to the venue's doors.

A taxi or rideshare (such as Uber) from the city center will take approximately 15–20 minutes. This is an excellent option if you don't want to worry about finding a parking spot before a big show. Visitors planning their route from Midtown Plaza are also advised to allow extra time for potential traffic.

The history of this venue began with a need for change. By the mid-1980s, the city's old arena, known as "The Barn," had become completely outdated: its roof leaked, and the facilities did not meet modern standards. In 1985–1986, after a city plebiscite where 70% of residents voted in favor, construction on the new arena began.

The official opening took place in February 1988 under the name Saskatchewan Place. The first landmark event was a hockey game where the local Saskatoon Blades defeated the Brandon Wheat Kings 4–3 in front of more than 9,000 enthusiastic fans. Since then, the arena has been expanded several times and changed its name, becoming increasingly high-tech.

One of the most significant chapters in the venue's biography was a massive $6.7 million renovation in 2008–2009. This work was timed to coincide with the hosting of the 2010 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Thanks to the update, capacity increased by nearly 3,000 seats, allowing the Saskatoon Arena to host world-class events.

Over the years, the complex has seen many legends, from NHL games to grand spectacles. In 2023, the arena celebrated its 35th anniversary, remaining a key sporting and cultural landmark for the region, despite the city's ambitious plans for new venues in the future.

The duration of your visit to SaskTel Centre depends entirely on the purpose of your trip. If you plan to attend a sports match or a major concert, it is recommended to set aside at least 3–4 hours. This is enough time to comfortably go through security, find your seat, enjoy the event, and grab a snack during intervals.

For those who just want to see the arena's architecture or visit the administrative offices for organizational matters, 1 hour will be sufficient. Keep in mind that on major show days, traffic around the complex can be heavy, so it's worth arriving early to ensure you don't miss the start of the event.

The operating hours of SaskTel Centre are divided into administrative hours and event times. The administration and box office operate on a fixed schedule, which is convenient for in-person inquiries or purchasing tickets.

Official working hours for the administrative offices are:

• Monday: 09:30 – 12:30, 13:00 – 17:30
• Tuesday: 09:30 – 12:30, 13:00 – 21:30
• Wednesday: 09:30 – 12:30, 13:00 – 17:30
• Thursday: 09:30 – 12:30, 13:00 – 17:30
• Friday: 09:30 – 12:30, 13:00 – 17:30
• Saturday: 12:00 – 17:00
• Sunday: Closed

Please keep in mind that during sporting matches, concerts, and special shows, the arena is open according to the event schedule. Doors usually open to spectators 1–1.5 hours before the event starts.

A visit to the Saskatoon Arena can easily be combined with exploring other interesting spots in the city. The surrounding area offers plenty of options for active recreation, family walks, and discovering the culture of Saskatchewan.

Below is a list of attractions located within a few kilometers of the arena: