10 years of the Essar Centre: 2009 to 2012 (38 photos)

This weekend marks 10 years since the building currently known as the Essar Centre first opened its doors to the public.

Hosting a variety of sporting, community and live entertainment events throughout the last decade, some notables include the 2008 OHL All-Star Classic, the 2010 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, the 2011 OCAA Men's Basketball Championships, the 2012 CARHA World Cup, and the 2013 Telus Cup.

Live performances include those by Motley Crue, Neil Young, Sir Elton John, KISS, Dolly Parton, Bob Dylan, The Barenaked Ladies, The Tragically Hip, Stompin' Tom Connors, Gordon Lightfoot, Sheryl Crow, and numerous others.

For more background about the Essar Centre, read part one of SooToday's three part series commemorating the arena's 10th anniversary.

Fun facts: Part 2

In 2005, local Conservative Party candidate Ken Walker proposed the new Sault Ste. Marie Sports and Entertainment Facility be named after Victoria Cross winner Smokey Smith who passed away on August 3, 2005 at the age of 91.

Elton John drew the arena's largest concert audience, selling approximately 6,200 tickets. The show sold out in just a few minutes.

Approximately 11,000 fans gathered at the Essar Centre, inside and out, to celebrate the lighting of the cauldron during the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.