Initially known as the Civic Arena, the building had its official public opening on December 16 1921. From 1940 to 1945, the building was used as a training base for the Canadian Army during World War II. After the war, it mainly hosted equestrian events for the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) and other events. The arena was also used as a horse barn. The Ricoh Coliseum hosted the 2007 AHL All-Star Game on January 29, 2007.