From concerts, to sports, to commencement, the Erie Insurance Arena is home to a multitude of events throughout the year, serving both the Erie and Gannon communities.

Originally called the Erie Civic Center, the arena was built in 1983. It was later named the Louis J. Tullio Arena after the late mayor of Erie who served six terms in office. In 2012, the arena was renamed the Erie Insurance Arena, coinciding with a $42 million renovation completed in October 2013.

The renovation expanded the arena from 152,000 square feet to 218,000 square feet and increased seating capacity to 9,000. It also added new space for suites, amenities and offices and gave a facelift to the front of the building. All of this means an even greater experience for the nearly 20,000 people who visit the arena for every month.

Home to the Erie Otters, the Erie BayHawks and the Erie Explosion, sports fans can be found at the arena almost all year round, enjoying their favorite local team; and when it’s baseball season, Jerry Uht Park is only a block away. The arena has also been home to multiple NCAA Division II Women’s Championships including hockey in 2011 and basketball in 2014.

Since its first concert in 1983, performed by the Beach Boys, the Erie Insurance Arena has hosted many famous names such as Barry Manilow, Cher, Elton John, KISS and Rod Stewart. In 2012, Gannon collaborated with Mercyhurst University and Edinboro University to bring Andy Grammar, Jack’s Mannequin and The Fray to the arena for students to enjoy.

Most students who graduate from Gannon will find themselves in the arena at least once for commencement. Gannon holds spring commencement in the Erie Insurance Arena in order to accommodate all students, their families and friends. The class of 2014 will be the first to graduate inside the renovated arena.

Whatever the occasion, the Erie Insurance Arena is a great venue for the community, conveniently located and able to host a wide variety of events.