CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Spectrum Center in Charlotte has transformed.

• Up to about 700 people helped transfrom the arena
• The NBA still wants to make sure fans are part of the experience with events Uptown
• The Epicentre will be open for the fan experience from noon to 7 p.m. from Friday to Sunday

“When you walk in it doesn't look it does for a regular Charlotte Hornets game,” said NBA Senior Vice President Kevin Dobstaff.

Officials say 500 to 700 people have spent the past week redoing the floor, preparing for the influx of media, and setting up a courtside stage.

“It will be utilized for half-time production on Sunday, the player introductions on Sunday,” Dobstaff said.

Entertainers and production staff from the NBA's 30 teams are in Charlotte creating an atmosphere that represents the league and the Queen City.

“Looking at what the logos look like, the honeycomb aspect of it, you look at the basketball court, every little aspect of All-Star is focused on and designed to feel like it makes sense for the city that were in,” Dobstaff said.

While a lot of fans can't actually get tickets to the game, the NBA still wants to make sure fans are part of the experience, even if they can't get inside the Spectrum Center.

“We're transforming the Epicentre here into an immersive interactive experience for NBA fans,” said NBA Senior Vice President Kelly Flatow.

Next to the Spectrum Center, the Epicentre has a different look and feel than it typically does.

There's a mixed reality buzzer beater game, places to buy NBA gear, and plenty of interactive games. Fans will also be able to meet players and attend surprise concerts.

The Epicentre is open to anyone and free.

“It will be a fun time. We're really encouraging people to take the light rail to be able to walk even if they have to park a distance away and we will make it an accessible experience as possible,” Flatow said.

While getting to Uptown may not be very accessible, the NBA thinks people will want to stick around.

“We certainly hope that for the city of Charlotte. What an amazing experience they will have because we always want to feel like we left a legacy in the market,” Dobstaff said.

The Epicentre will be open for the fan experience from noon to 7 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.