November 19 marked the first anniversary since the newly-reconstructed Orlando Citrus Bowl opened its gates and welcomed the Central Florida community to a completely modernized stadium. Since November 19, 2014, the venue has hosted numerous sports and entertainment events including 22 soccer matches, 13 football games and two concerts. The action-packed year attracted 818,645 patrons and directly contributed to the successful rebirth of this historic facility.
Following the massive $207.7 million reconstruction that resulted in a 90 percent all-new stadium designed to enhance the fan experience, the Orlando Citrus Bowl has seen an unprecedented amount of activity. Between serving as the home to Orlando City SC’s inaugural Major League Soccer season, hosting a sold-out Monster Jam and welcoming the “World’s Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band,” it’s been a banner year.
“Our Orlando Citrus Bowl is not only a world-class venue, attracting top-tier events and international recognition, it is also an iconic community gathering space providing our residents with unique experiences and new memories that will last a lifetime,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “For nearly 80 years this historic facility has served as a community and economy builder for our region and I am proud that after the reconstruction, this legacy has not only continued, but has grown.”
In addition to Orlando City SC, the Orlando Citrus Bowl is the proud home to the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl, Russell Athletic Bowl, AutoNation Cure Bowl (debuting December 19), Florida Blue Florida Classic, MEAC/SWAC Challenge and the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Football State Championships. When the Orlando Pride, the newest member of the professional National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), begin their inaugural season in April 2016, they too will call the stadium home.
“The success we’ve experienced over the last year continues to open new doors and lead to exciting opportunities,” said Orlando Venues Executive Director Allen Johnson. “Promoters have really taken notice and I’m pleased to say we are now equipped to host just about any large-scale concert or sporting event.”
