The Pacific Coliseum holds 17,713 people. This iconic multi-purpose arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is a prominent venue for various events, from professional sports to large-scale concerts and exhibitions.
Pacific Coliseum Seating Capacity
The stated capacity of 17,713 makes the Pacific Coliseum one of Vancouver's significant indoor venues. This capacity refers primarily to its seated configuration, suitable for a wide array of events.
To illustrate how this capacity functions across different event types, consider the following:
| Event Type | Seating Capacity (Approximate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Events | 17,713 | The primary maximum seating capacity for most configurations. |
| Ice Hockey | Up to 17,713 | Optimized for clear views of the ice rink from all seating levels. |
| Concerts | Varies (typically 12,000-16,000) | Capacity may be slightly reduced depending on stage placement and seating configuration. |
A Historic Venue in Vancouver
Opened in 1968, the Pacific Coliseum has a rich history in the sports and entertainment landscape of Vancouver. It served as the primary home of the Vancouver Canucks National Hockey League (NHL) team from 1970 until 1995.
Key milestones and facts about the venue include:
- Location: Situated on the grounds of the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) in East Vancouver.
- Olympic Legacy: Hosted figure skating and short track speed skating events during the 2010 Winter Olympics.
- Architecture: Recognized for its distinctive mid-century modern architecture and unique saddle-shaped roof.
Versatility of the Venue
The design of the Pacific Coliseum allows for remarkable flexibility, enabling it to host diverse events beyond just hockey. Its large floor space and adaptable seating arrangements make it ideal for:
- Sporting Events: In addition to ice hockey, it has hosted basketball, professional wrestling, curling, and various other athletic competitions.
- Concerts: A popular stop for major musical artists and touring acts due to its considerable capacity and acoustics.
- Exhibitions and Trade Shows: Its expansive interior can be transformed to accommodate large-scale public and private exhibitions.
- Community Events: Continues to be a significant venue for local festivals, conventions, and other community gatherings.
Understanding Venue Capacity
Venue capacity, such as the 17,713 figure for the Pacific Coliseum, typically refers to the maximum number of spectators it can accommodate under standard configurations. While this number is a fixed baseline, the actual available seating for any given event can fluctuate slightly. Factors like the size and placement of a stage for a concert, the layout of a trade show, or specific safety regulations for a particular event might lead to a minor adjustment in the final ticketed capacity. However, the fundamental holding capacity of the Pacific Coliseum remains 17,713.
