Centennial Plaza

Centennial Plaza stands as Canton's premier urban gathering space, a vibrant 2.5-acre park designed to celebrate the NFL's centennial while revitalizing downtown Canton. Opened in September 2020, this dynamic public space combines football heritage, artistic elements, and community-oriented design to create a welcoming destination for both locals and visitors.

Why It's Special

What makes Centennial Plaza unique is its seamless blend of Canton's football legacy with modern urban design principles. Unlike traditional parks, this plaza serves as both an everyday community space and a world-class event venue. The plaza's football-themed elements pay homage to Canton's special place in NFL history without overwhelming the space's broader appeal. Its central downtown location creates a hub that connects the city's arts district, dining scene, and historical sites, while its state-of-the-art features—from the magnificent video screen to the choreographed fountains—bring a level of urban sophistication typically found in much larger cities.

Plaza Highlights

Football Heritage Elements

The plaza beautifully incorporates football themes:

• The Eleven: Striking 11-pillar installation representing the 11 players on a football field
• NFL Shield: Large granite medallion featuring the NFL logo
• Hall of Fame Heroes Wall: Digital display honoring all Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinees
• Stats Track: Walking path around the perimeter with football milestones and achievements
• Quarterback Statues: Life-sized sculptures in action poses representing the position's evolution

Architectural Features

The plaza's design creates a versatile and visually stunning space:

• Choreographed Fountains: 153 water jets creating dynamic water displays, representing the 153 Pro Football Hall of Famers at the time of design
• Main Stage: Performance venue with professional sound system and lighting
• LED Video Board: Massive 25' x 40' screen for events, games, and plaza programming
• Seating Areas: Combination of fixed stone seating and movable furniture
• Turf Field: Multi-purpose grass area for recreation and events
• Performance Canopy: Distinctive arched structure providing shade and architectural interest
• Café & Visitor Center: Indoor space with refreshments and information

Technical Capabilities

The plaza features cutting-edge technology:

• Programmable LED lighting throughout the space
• State-of-the-art sound system covering the entire plaza
• Interactive display capabilities for special events
• Wi-Fi connectivity throughout
• Weather-resistant design for year-round use

Visitor Experience

Daily Activities

Even without special events, the plaza offers plenty to enjoy:

• Synchronized fountain shows throughout the day
• Regular video content on the main screen
• Casual seating areas for relaxation or picnicking
• Interactive historical displays about Canton and football
• Café offering coffee, snacks, and light meals
• Beautiful lighting displays after sunset

Special Programming

The plaza hosts regular scheduled activities:

• Morning Fitness: Yoga, tai chi, and workout classes
• Lunchtime Live: Midday music performances during warmer months
• Movie Nights: Family-friendly films shown on the video board
• Game Day Gatherings: Football watch parties during the NFL season
• Arts & Culture Series: Rotating exhibits and performances

Major Events

Throughout the year, signature events transform the space:

• Canton Music Block: Concert series featuring regional and national acts
• Taste of Canton: Annual food festival highlighting local restaurants
• First Friday Extensions: Monthly arts celebration connected to the Arts District
• Hall of Fame Festival Events: Special programming during Enshrinement Week
• Light Up Downtown: Holiday celebration with special lighting displays
• New Year's Eve Celebration: Community countdown with special effects

Seasonal Highlights

Spring/Summer

• Water features in full operation
• Outdoor concerts and performances
• Farmers markets and craft fairs
• Fitness classes on the lawn

Fall

• Football season watch parties and rallies
• Harvest festivals and food events
• Fall foliage complementing the plaza's design
• Comfortable temperatures for enjoying outdoor spaces

Winter

• Holiday light installations and decorations
• Special winter programming
• Heated areas in the café
• Snow and ice designs (weather permitting)

Plan Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

• Fountain shows run hourly with extended shows in the evening
• Check the plaza's online calendar for special events
• First Fridays (monthly) offer enhanced programming
• Weekday lunchtimes bring a lively atmosphere with downtown workers

Tips for Visitors

• Bring a towel if children will play in the fountains
• The café offers refreshments, but the plaza is also surrounded by dining options
• Evening visits showcase the plaza's impressive lighting
• Check social media for last-minute event announcements
• Consider weather forecasts as most features are outdoors

Nearby Attractions

Centennial Plaza serves as an ideal starting point for exploring downtown Canton:

• Canton Arts District (adjacent)
• National First Ladies Library (5-minute walk)
• Canton Palace Theatre (5-minute walk)
• Canton Brewing Company (5-minute walk)
• Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography (3-minute walk)
• Downtown Canton dining and shopping (immediate surroundings)

Getting There

Centennial Plaza is located in the heart of downtown Canton, occupying the block between Court Avenue NW, Market Avenue N, Third Street NW, and Fourth Street NW. The plaza is easily accessible from major highways via the downtown Canton exits. Street parking is available on surrounding streets, and several public parking lots and garages are located within a short walking distance.

Historical Context

Centennial Plaza was created as part of the NFL's centennial celebration, commemorating the founding of the National Football League in Canton, Ohio on September 17, 1920. The $12.3 million project transformed a former block of Market Avenue into a world-class public space designed to honor Canton's football legacy while creating an engaging community resource.

The plaza's creation was a collaborative effort between the City of Canton, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the NFL, and numerous community partners. Its design intentionally creates connections between the downtown business district, arts district, and residential areas, serving as both a destination and a connector for various parts of the city. Since its opening, Centennial Plaza has become a catalyst for downtown development, spurring new investments in surrounding properties and bringing renewed energy to Canton's urban core.