The City of Tacoma is preparing to kick of a year-long celebration to mark the 30th anniversary of the Tacoma Dome.

The city-owned Tacoma Dome opened its doors to the public on April 21, 1983, as one of the largest wood-domed structures in the world. Today it can accommodate approximately 23,000 guests in a variety of configurations, making it the largest indoor venue in the state of Washington, according to City of Tacoma Public Assembly Facilities Director Kim Bedier.

“The Dome has become an iconic symbol witnessed by millions as they drive by on Interstate-5 and visited by millions as they rocked, rolled, graduated, wrestled and grew up under its recognizable roof,” notes Bedier. “Postcards, T-shirts and photographs have all immortalized the Dome as a symbol of the spirit of Tacoma.”

Through April of next year, the city plans to partner with the Tacoma community to present a series of celebratory activities, including a campaign entitled “Dome30: Share the Memories.” Tacoma residents will be invited to share their fondest memories of the Tacoma Dome, either by e-mailing dome30@tacomadome.org or by visiting a video booth during upcoming events at the Tacoma Dome. In addition, the interior of the Tacoma Dome will be transformed into a living time line, highlighted with recollections, photos, and Dome memorabilia. And Tacoma City Councilmembers will work with teen volunteers at the Tacoma Public Library’s StoryLab project to record “One Minute Memories.”

More information is available online here or by visiting tacomadome.org.