Sonnentag Event Center

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can the Sonnentag Center hold?

The Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, WI, is designed as a premier multipurpose facility with a seating capacity of up to 5,000 people for large-scale events such as concerts, sporting events, and conventions. The venue is flexible and can accommodate a range of event sizes thanks to its adaptable floor plans and state-of-the-art amenities. Whether hosting a university basketball game, a corporate conference, or a live concert, the Sonnentag Center offers ample space to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Its capacity makes it one of the largest indoor event spaces in the Eau Claire region, attracting both local and regional events.

Who owns the Sonnentag Center in Eau Claire, WI?

The Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, WI, is owned by the Sonnentag Foundation, a philanthropic organization closely connected to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UW-Eau Claire) and its Foundation. The ownership and management structure was established through a collaborative partnership between the Sonnentag Foundation, UW-Eau Claire Foundation, and Mayo Clinic Health System. This partnership ensures that the center serves both the university community and the broader public, hosting athletic events, community gatherings, and major entertainment. The center is a significant asset for the region, supporting education, health, and economic development initiatives while being managed responsibly through its non-profit ownership model.

Who is the Sonnentag family?

The Sonnentag family is a well-known philanthropic family in Eau Claire, WI, with deep ties to the local business and civic community. John and Carolyn Sonnentag, founders of County Materials Corporation, are particularly recognized for their generosity and commitment to enhancing the Eau Claire area. The family’s significant charitable contributions, including a transformative gift for the construction of the Sonnentag Event Center, have supported local education, healthcare, and community development. Their dedication is reflected in the naming of the center and in ongoing support for initiatives benefiting the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the Mayo Clinic Health System. The Sonnentags are celebrated for their enduring legacy of giving back.

How much did it cost to build the Sonnentag Center?

The construction of the Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire, WI, represented a major investment in the region, with total costs estimated at approximately $100 million. This state-of-the-art facility was made possible through a combination of private donations—most notably, a $70 million gift from the Sonnentag family and County Materials Corporation—and additional funding from community partners, including the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Foundation and Mayo Clinic Health System. The substantial investment covers not only the event center itself, but also integrated wellness, athletic, and community spaces, creating a multifunctional venue designed to serve Eau Claire for decades to come. The financial commitment ensures world-class amenities and long-term sustainability.