Industry Hills Expo Center

The inspiration

The Expo Center opened in 1981 as an equestrian facility with outdoor horse arenas, and its early life revolved around horses¹ . After the City of Industry purchased it in 2002, the organizers decided to open it up to everyone in the community, shifting from its traditional equestrian history toward a multipurpose event center² . Today the 125-acre gated hilltop grounds overlook the San Gabriel Valley and host everything from private parties to large public festivals¹ .

Who's behind it

Carol Perez, the center's operating manager, oversaw the changes that followed the city's purchase, including the demolition of the aging stables and a broad push for more diverse bookings² . Raul Landino served as marketing director during that expansion, promoting the shift toward community use² .

What to order

• The Industry Hills Charity Pro Rodeo: an annual event with Western traditions and a Community Kids Day that drew families in costume for photos with sheep and appearances by Smokey Bear .^3,2
• Horse and livestock shows: the venue keeps its equestrian roots with horse shows and alpaca and llama events .²
• Festivals and derby: multicultural celebrations, a Taiwanese autumn festival, roller derby and other gatherings fill the calendar alongside the sports .²
• On location filming: the site is also used as a film location .^4,2

What people are saying

The covered arena, with seating for more than 5,000, comes up again and again as a versatile space suited to rodeos, speedway, dog shows and other large events .

Why you should try it

Perched above the San Gabriel Valley, this sprawling facility puts rodeos, speedway racing, festivals and shows within easy reach, with direct access to four major freeways¹ .