As Topekans, we have always taken pride in our city's unique spaces—places steeped in history that still welcome the future with open arms. Heritage Hall is one of those places. Nestled in the Stormont Vail Events Center complex, this historic limestone structure has recently undergone a refreshing and exciting renovation, transforming it into a modern and versatile venue while honoring its legacy as one of Topeka’s oldest event spaces. We sat down with Brianna Berggren, Convention Sales Manager, to find out what’s new.
Built in 1925, Heritage Hall is the oldest building on the Events Center campus. Originally an open-air structure used during the Shawnee County Fair, it served as a pass-through gathering space—sheltering guests from the Kansas sun and summer rains while showcasing exhibitions, farm equipment, and community spirit. Though the fair itself eventually relocated, the limestone walls of Heritage Hall remained, holding within them a century’s worth of local history.
In the mid-1980s, as plans took shape to build Landon Arena and the Exhibition Hall on the same 60-acre property, Heritage Hall was given a new purpose. The building was enclosed with windows and doors, outfitted with a stage and modern amenities, and officially reopened as an event venue. Since then, it has hosted everything from weddings and family reunions to corporate gatherings and public celebrations—always a reflection of Topeka’s heart and hospitality.
In 2022, changes in food and beverage services for the Events Center led to a new opportunity: elevate Heritage Hall to meet the growing expectations of event clients, both private and corporate. With the addition of private catering services and bar options, the need to modernize the space became clear—and the results are amazing.
“Today, Heritage Hall is as functional as it is beautiful,” Berggren said. The recent renovation, led by Shawnee County and developed in partnership with local architectural firm HTK, refreshed nearly every aspect of the venue. The former stage area was reimagined into two multipurpose suites, perfect for bridal parties, breakout sessions, or private prep rooms. The once-dated interior now features fresh paint, elegant chair rail detailing, and all-new windows and doors that flood the room with natural light.
Guests can also enjoy the newly added outdoor amenities, including a charming pergola with twinkling lights, a privacy-fenced patio space, and a dedicated outdoor bar area. Whether you’re hosting a sunset wedding or a cozy fall fundraiser, the indoor-outdoor flow adds warmth, charm, and flexibility to any event.
Inside, upgraded seating, LED color-changing lights, and modern audio-visual options ensure every event—big or small—feels professional and polished. Heritage Hall now comfortably accommodates up to 350 guests in a variety of configurations, from formal dinners to corporate conferences. While the space can certainly hold large numbers, it’s also quite comfortable for parties as small as 25. “You just let us know what you want, and we will make your event match your vision,” Berggren assured.
Of course, no event is complete without great food, and Chef LaMona delivers. “I call it gourmet comfort food,” Berggren shared. From classic Midwest barbecue to mouthwatering Mediterranean menus, her culinary creativity elevates every celebration whether it’s heavy appetizers, a bountiful buffet, or a formal plate dinner. “She does an amazing charcuterie board spread. It's just a work of art,” Berggren added. With food, beverage, and bar service all offered in-house, event planning becomes refreshingly simple—allowing hosts to focus on florals and fun rather than logistics.
Heritage Hall’s calendar is as diverse as the city it serves. Over the years, it has welcomed high school reunions, business gatherings, graduation parties, and holiday celebrations. While the hall books mostly private events, they do host a few fun public events throughout the year including concerts and comedians. Coming up July 2025, a two-night pop-up event called the Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy—a 90-minute chilling theatrical cocktail experience where guests are regaled with four of the macabre master’s tales while enjoying themed drinks in a dark speakeasy environment.
“As a county-owned venue, Heritage Hall belongs to all of us,” Berggren said. “It’s very rewarding to work in a place where so many fun new memories are being made.” From newlyweds’ first dances to milestone anniversaries, boisterous birthdays to company triumphs, Heritage Hall is the ideal venue to celebrate in style. It reflects the spirit of Topeka—historic, welcoming, and always evolving.
Whether you’re planning an intimate baby shower, a retirement celebration, or a full-scale corporate gala, Heritage Hall offers the ideal setting right here in the heart of our Golden City. To learn more, book a tour, or explore rental options, visit stormontvaileventscenter.com. Just click on the page dedicated to Heritage Hall.
You’re Invited to the Heritage Hall Showcase!
Saturday, July 19th
10 AM – 2 PM
FREE TO THE PUBLIC
Bring your fiancé, family, and friends to tour our newly renovated space!
- Local vendors specializing in weddings and events
- Exclusive booking incentives
- Exclusive giveaways
Let us make your event unforgettable!