Sluicebox rebuilt and ready for 2023 Alaska State Fair season

PALMER — One of the Alaska State Fair’s most iconic destinations was rebuilt and ready for the 2023 season.

The Sluicebox was torn down over the summer and built back up from scratch. According to ASF officials, the original building's structural integrity drew concerns. The most recent winter's heavy snowfall further exacerbated the existing damage, prompting the decision to completely rebuild the structure rather than restore it.

The new Sluicebox is much larger than the original structure, allowing it to accommodate more visitors. The Sluicebox is known for hosting a variety of musical acts over the years and the newly built multi-use facility has more room for fairgoers to dance and listen to the seasonal rhythms. There is new furniture featured inside the building as well as the outside patio area.

"This rebuild is essential in order to continue safely hosting entertainers and guests for many years to come," ASF officials stated in a press release.

The Sluicebox has a long and eventful history as one of the most recognizable and highly utilized facilities at the Alaska State Fair.

According to the press release, the structure was originally built to house vegetable exhibits before it became known as the Beer Hall in the 1970s. It was eventually named the Sluicebox in 1982.

The Sluicebox evolved into a gathering place for friends and family; but more than anything else, it served as one of the Fair's core venues that featured a variety of local and visiting musicians over the years.

According to the press release, numerous pieces of memorabilia have been saved and will be featured in the new, including the familiar sign out front and the artists’ wall that was signed by a plethora of performers. Reclaimed wood from the old structure will also be utilized in the construction.

'We look forward to continuing the Sluicebox fun, entertainment, and traditions for generations to come," ASF officials stated in the press release.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@fromtiersman.com