Decorah Performance Pavilion
Community members and alumni alike have a unique opportunity to shape the future of Decorah. By supporting the creation of a sustainable, artistically vibrant outdoor performance pavilion, we can offer a lasting gift to generations of students and neighbors. This shared space will celebrate creativity—hosting local and touring musicians, dancers, theater groups, speakers, and school events.
Why This Location?
More than just a venue, the pavilion will serve as a central gathering place, drawing people together and enriching community life. The central location, close to schools and downtown, will boost arts education, retail and tourism, becoming a cultural cornerstone that reflects Decorah’s values and vision. The structure would provide a physical “block” to a busy intersection from the adjoining green spaces and playground areas. The actual site is the southwest corner of the 24 hour parking lot across the street from City Hall.
Why Now:
- Decorah Schools Needs Survey results included these community priorities: 1) Pickleball 2) Outdoor Amphitheater 3) Basketball courts
- No Adequate Outdoor Performance Space
- Opportunity to plan with the new Elementary School building
The “How”:
Project Process:
- No school funds used
- Private fundraising, donations, and grants
- Dependent on the new school construction timeline
- No permanent seating, just green spaces to support the school playground areas
- Sustainability Goals:
- Solar-powered pavilion (~36 kW). Can provide up to $10,000/year of free electricity for the new elementary building
- 62 bi-facial solar panels make up a waterproof roof that floats above the building structure on steel beams, providing an excellent acoustical shell for performances
- Building construction materials chosen to last as long as the new school
- Theatrical lighting, sound and security systems are planned
- Solar-heated restrooms
What’s next?
If you support the idea of a performance pavilion located next to the new elementary school you can:
- Talk to your neighbors and friends about the project. Send them to our website or Share our PAVILION PROJECT BROCHURE.
- Write a letter to the editor. template:
- Contact the Decorah School Board to emphasize your support template:
- Find Decorah School Board Information here.
Use these templates as a starting point and customize to include your own voice.
Questions? Contact Us! Scroll to the bottom of the HOME page for contact form.
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