Huntsville Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Von Braun Center with a Star-Studded Tribute
Ah, Huntsville! The vibrant heart of North Alabama is gearing up for a momentous occasion as the Von Braun Center (VBC) marks its 50th anniversary this year. And, oh boy, do they have something special in store!
Come October 9th, the VBC Propst Arena will be buzzing with excitement as they present “Songs and Stories of Dean Dillon,” a concert that not only celebrates the legendary country music artist but is also set to break records, making it the highest-grossing concert in the venue’s impressive 50-year history.
An Evening to Remember
The concert is poised to feature a lineup that country music fans will absolutely love. With renowned artists like Cody Johnson, Dustin Lynch, and even the amazing George Strait taking the stage, it’s a lineup that’s bound to be unforgettable. They will perform classic hits penned by Dean Dillon himself, who is not just a songsmith to the stars but a shining star in his own right.
VBC Executive Director Steve Maples put it perfectly, saying, “Can you imagine what Huntsville would look like without the Von Braun Center?” It’s a question that stirs the pot of nostalgia and pride for the iconic venue that has served as a gathering place for unforgettable moments over the decades.
A National Stage
In the past, the VBC has showcased its prowess multiple times on national television, including events like the SEC Gymnastics Championships and tribute concerts for Lee Greenwood and the late George Jones. And the upcoming tribute for Dean Dillon is eagerly anticipated to follow in those successful footsteps.
And to emphasize how important this tribute is, there’s over $1M being invested just for the concert’s production, which speaks volumes about its expected impact. The VBC is stepping up to make this a major event in both entertainment and community spirit.
Community Impact
Speaking of community, it’s essential to note that these tribute concerts aren’t just about the music. They also hold philanthropic significance. Previous events generated substantial economic impact, with the Lee Greenwood concert raking in over $1 million and the George Jones tribute breaking records by reaching an estimated $1.2 million for Huntsville.
As part of this spirit of giving, the upcoming concert will donate free tickets to Vet Tix, a fantastic organization that provides tickets for veterans and active military members. Not to mention, a portion of the ticket sales will help fund initiatives by Concerts 4 A Cause, an organization devoted to raising awareness for various important issues through the magic of music.
This time around, they’re buying a minimum of 100 guitars that will be donated to Madison County’s public schools – all on Dean Dillon’s request. Now, isn’t that something special?
A Look Back at 50 Years
The Von Braun Center’s legacy is significant! Since its inception in 1975, the VBC has hosted over 544 events, contributing an astounding $97 million in economic impact just last fiscal year. It’s been a venue where local stories are told, careers are launched, and memories are created.
As Maples reminds us, the VBC is not just a building; it’s a landmark of unity and togetherness, where everything from concerts and sporting events to private celebrations happen. It reflects the heartbeat of Huntsville.
Here’s to the Future!
The VBC’s 50th Anniversary theme, “Your Place Through Time,” calls upon the community to reflect on how this venue has been integral to shared experiences over the years. With the upcoming Dean Dillon tribute paving the way for future memorable moments, it’s a delightful time to be part of the Huntsville community.
As we inch closer to the magical night of music, nostalgia, and celebration, we look forward to all the memories that are yet to be made. Here’s to the Von Braun Center and the community; let’s continue to create beautiful moments together for the next 50 years!
