The stadium was opened in 1938 and has been rebuilt several times since then.  Outside the stadium is a memorial stone to honour of Jānis Dāliņš (1904-1978), who set several world records in race walking.  He won a silver medal at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1932.  The first Three Star Olympiad was held in the stadium in 1993.  The stadium is of national importance as an athletics stadium that hosts international competitions and various athletic activities.  It is known as the most youth-friendly facility of its type.