As an infrequent concertgoer and intermittent fan of pro sports, my impression of stadiums is limited to special events. The stadium is the venue of choice for a block of time, and during those few hours, my focus is on the game or the entertainment. In other words, the stadium is merely the backdrop for the main attraction.
But anyone who has worked on a stadium’s design, construction, maintenance, or operations knows that’s an unfair assessment. Yes, an A-list performer or championship team may be the big draw, but the stadium is a star in its own right.
And not only to inspire oohs and ahhs from patrons.
Whether a visitor is a one-time customer or a season ticketholder, they’ve chosen to dedicate money, time, and effort to visit a stadium. For an afternoon or an evening, that stadium becomes a prime destination and a pillar of community. Thus, every aspect of the experience—from security to concessions—plays a vital role in placemaking.
Stadiums, and stadium-adjacent facilities, are gathering spots, much like a recreation center or a park, just with multimillion-dollar features and (often) big stars. The stands are packed with people who share an affinity for a sport, a genre of music, or a cause. Everything that happens over the course of their time on the premises not only creates memories but also establishes the stadium as a beacon of connection and togetherness.
Every year in our Stadiums issue, we give top billing to these venues, highlighting innovative upgrades, rising trends, and impressive projects. This year is no different. But in addition to our typical coverage, I think it’s important to apply a lens of placemaking. Across these stories, whether they showcase a stadium specifically or focus on another type of facility, community serves as the foundation.
This month’s stories show that every part of a public venue is intentionally chosen to bring people together and ensure they have an unforgettable time while inhabiting a shared space. The facility is never the opening act, no matter how big the main attraction—it’s always centerstage.
