Isn’t it interesting that a building initially intended for livestock became a renowned sports and entertainment venue? Today we’re standing before the Coca-Cola Coliseum. It is a landmark in Toronto with a rich and varied history.
The Coca-Cola Coliseum was completed in 1921. It was originally named the CNE Coliseum. The Coliseum was built for the Canadian National Exhibition and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Back then in 1920 Toronto voters approved the construction. The approved budget was CA$1 million for a livestock arena.
However the lowest tender exceeded the approved budget. It was reduced in size to meet the budget. Anglin-Norcross Ltd. of Montreal won the construction bid. The cornerstone was laid by Toronto Mayor Thomas Church on July 27, 1921.
Robert Fleming president of the CNE declared it the largest of its kind worldwide. The Coca-Cola Coliseum officially opened on December 16 1921. About 5000 people attended an athletic meet.
In 1922 the name Coliseum was officially adopted. The main entrance faced north along Manitoba Drive. Additions were made in 1926. The complex was then considered the largest of its kind under one roof.
During World War II from 1942 to 1945 the Coliseum served as a training base. It was known as the Manning Depot for the Royal Canadian Air Force. Post-war it primarily hosted equestrian events. The arena was even used as a horse barn.
The southern facade underwent a significant reconstruction in 1963. A new front plaza and a large COLISEUM sign were added. In 1997 the Enercare Centre exhibition complex was built. This altered the Coliseum’s access and entrance.
A major renovation occurred in 2003 to attract a professional ice hockey team. The Coca-Cola Coliseum’s capacity was expanded. It went from 6500 to 9700 seats. This was achieved by building a new roof lowering the floor and adding suites.
In 2003 Ricoh purchased the naming rights. It was renamed Ricoh Coliseum. In 2018 Coca-Cola purchased the naming rights. The facility was renamed the Coca-Cola Coliseum.
Throughout its history the Coca-Cola Coliseum has hosted diverse events. These events include the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair’s horse show and CNE exhibits. It has hosted cat dog and horse shows. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride has performed here.
The arena also hosts trade shows like the annual Boat Show with an indoor pond. Early plans in the 1970s aimed to bring ice hockey to the Coliseum. The Toronto Toros initially wanted to play here.
In 2003 the Toronto Roadrunners debuted as an ice hockey venue. Since 2005 the Coca-Cola Coliseum has been home to the Toronto Marlies. The Coliseum hosted the 2007 AHL All-Star Game. The Toronto Sceptres of the PWHL also play here.
Other sports have graced this arena. A boxing match in 1922 set an indoor sports attendance record. The Toronto-Buffalo Royals played here in 1974. The Toronto Triumph of the Lingerie Football League played their lone season here in 2012. The 2015 Pan American Games held gymnastics competitions here. The 2016 NBA All-Star Weekend featured events at the Coliseum.
Notably Daniel Nestor played his final Davis Cup match here in 2018. The Coliseum has also hosted college basketball games. Starting in 2026 the Toronto Tempo of the WNBA will call this place home.
Many musical acts have performed at the Coca-Cola Coliseum. These include Jimi Hendrix The Doors and Bob Dylan. The first We Day concert was held here in 2007. Professional wrestling events like WWE Roadblock and AEW Dynamite have taken place here.
The Coca-Cola Coliseum stands as a testament to Toronto’s history. It has adapted and evolved. From agricultural displays to hockey games and concerts it continues to entertain. It enriches the city’s cultural landscape. It is a versatile venue for generations to come.