December 26, 1899
First opens as The Ware Auditorium, offering opera and theatre

1904
The first talking pictures are demonstrated

February 5, 1917
The building changes it’s name from Ware Auditorium to The Grand Theatre

June 21, 1929
Vitaphone and Moviephone equipment are installed for more advanced talking pictures

1947
A wide screen is installed

June 30, 1985
After 84 years. The Grand shows its last movie

1989
The Grand is remodeled to become a fine restaurant

2001
The Grand Event Center is open for hosting wedding receptions, reunions, parties, concerts, and special events. Call Today 1-507-663-1773

A Brief History of The Grand Event Center

An old black-and-white photograph of the Northfield Auditorium in Minnesota with a large arched window, a second-floor balcony, and a sign above the entrance that reads 'WARE AUDITORIUM.'
Close-up of a red brick building with a large arched window and decorative black window panes.
Guests dining at tables in a formal event hall with a stage, red curtains, and a balcony level.