The Sam Southern Arena, also known as the Southern Arena, is a multi-purpose indoor arena located in Lafayette, Louisiana. It is situated on the campus of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and serves as the home venue for the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns men's and women's basketball teams. The arena has a seating capacity of approximately 12,000 and hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, conventions, and sporting events.
History and Construction
The Sam Southern Arena was opened in 1992 and was named after Sam Southern, a prominent businessman and philanthropist from Lafayette. The arena was constructed at a cost of $32 million and features a unique design with a large, circular concourse and a retractable roof. The arena’s design allows for maximum flexibility, with the ability to host a wide range of events, from basketball and volleyball games to concerts and conventions.
Facilities and Amenities
The Sam Southern Arena features a variety of facilities and amenities, including 12 luxury suites, a club lounge, and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. The arena also has a large, LED video board and a high-definition video replay system. The concourse area features a variety of concession stands and restaurants, offering a range of food and beverage options for attendees.
| Seating Capacity | 12,000 |
|---|---|
| Construction Cost | $32 million |
| Opening Year | 1992 |
| Named After | Sam Southern |
Events and Activities
The Sam Southern Arena hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, conventions, and sporting events. The arena is home to the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns men’s and women’s basketball teams and also hosts volleyball and baseball games. The arena has also hosted a variety of concerts and performances, featuring artists such as Elton John, Taylor Swift, and Kendrick Lamar.
Notable Events
Some notable events that have been held at the Sam Southern Arena include the Sun Belt Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association State Basketball Championships. The arena has also hosted a variety of conventions and trade shows, including the Lafayette Convention Center’s annual convention and the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association’s annual meeting.
- Concerts: Elton John, Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar
- Sporting Events: Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns men's and women's basketball, volleyball, baseball
- Conventions: Sun Belt Conference Men's Basketball Tournament, NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, Louisiana High School Athletic Association State Basketball Championships
What is the seating capacity of the Sam Southern Arena?
+The seating capacity of the Sam Southern Arena is approximately 12,000.
What type of events are held at the Sam Southern Arena?
+The Sam Southern Arena hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, conventions, and sporting events.
Is the Sam Southern Arena available for private events?
+Yes, the Sam Southern Arena is available for private events, including weddings, parties, and corporate functions.
The Sam Southern Arena is a premier entertainment and sports venue in the Lafayette area, offering a unique and exciting experience for attendees. With its state-of-the-art facilities and intimate atmosphere, the arena is an ideal destination for a wide range of events. Whether you’re attending a concert, sporting event, or convention, the Sam Southern Arena is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
