40 Facts About Nassau Coliseum

A Historic Venue

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, often called Nassau Coliseum, has been a cornerstone of Long Island's cultural and sports scene since 1972. Here are some intriguing facts about this iconic arena.

1. Opening Date: Nassau Coliseum opened on February 11, 1972, with an ABA game between the New York Nets and the Pittsburgh Condors.

2. Initial Capacity: Initially, the arena could seat 15,000 people, with the ability to expand for larger events.

3. Location: It sits on 63 acres of land that was once part of Mitchel Field, a former military base.

4. Construction Cost: Building the Coliseum cost $32 million, a hefty sum at the time.

5. Name Origin: The venue is named to honor the property’s military history.

Early Days and Innovations

From its first game to its state-of-the-art features, Nassau Coliseum has always been ahead of its time.

6. ABA Game: The first game drew nearly 8,000 fans, with tickets starting at just $4.50.

7. Formal Opening: The official opening on April 12, 1972, featured an ice show starring Peggy Fleming.

8. Seating Variability: Depending on the event, seating could range from 13,900 for hockey to 16,000 for concerts.

9. Digital Scoreboard: The Coliseum had one of the first digital scoreboards in an indoor arena.

10. Instant Replay: It also featured an instant replay system, a novelty at the time.

Home of the Islanders

The New York Islanders have a long history with the Coliseum, making it a beloved venue for hockey fans.

11. 71-Foot Ceilings: The high ceilings provide ample space for various events.

12. Parking Capacity: The parking lot can accommodate 6,000 cars, perfect for large crowds.

13. Islanders’ First Game: The Islanders played their first game here in October 1972, winning only 12 games that season.

14. Islanders’ Home: The team called the Coliseum home from 1972 to 2015 and again from 2018 to 2021.

15. Islanders’ Logo: The "I" in the Islanders’ logo points to Uniondale, the Coliseum's location.

Memorable Events

From All-Star games to legendary concerts, the Coliseum has hosted numerous unforgettable events.

16. Hockey All-Star Game: It hosted the 35th annual National Hockey All-Star Game on February 8, 1983.

17. Nicknames: Fans and players affectionately call it "The Old Barn," "The Coli," and "Fort Neverlose."

18. Elvis Presley: Elvis performed four sold-out shows here in June 1973.

19. Billy Joel: Billy Joel has a special connection with the Coliseum, performing multiple times, including a notable concert in 1982.

20. Billy Joel’s Retired Number: A banner with the number 69, representing Billy Joel, hangs from the rafters.

Rock Legends and Concerts

The Coliseum has seen performances from some of the biggest names in music.

21. Rock Bands: Bands like David Bowie, Queen, and Pink Floyd have graced its stage.

22. Grateful Dead: The Grateful Dead played 42 shows here between 1973 and 1994.

23. Concerts and Shows: It has hosted numerous iconic performances over the years.

Modern Renovations

The Coliseum underwent significant renovations to keep up with modern standards.

24. Renovations: From 2015 to 2017, the Coliseum underwent a $180 million renovation.

25. New Features: The updated venue can seat 14,500 for basketball, 13,900 for hockey, and up to 16,000 for concerts.

26. Sustainability Features: It includes waterless urinals, LED lights, and improved thermal performance.

27. High-Speed Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi enhances the fan experience.

28. LED Scoreboard: An enlarged high-definition LED scoreboard offers a modern visual experience.

Behind the Scenes

The Coliseum's backstage area has been revamped to provide comfort and convenience for performers.

29. Artists Quarters: The backstage area now includes plush furniture, TVs, fireplaces, and dressing space.

30. NBA Regulations: Locker room showers are nine feet tall, with knobs placed four feet above the floor to accommodate NBA players.

31. Painting the Arena: It took 10,000 gallons of paint to complete the renovation.

32. Uniondale High School Band: The Uniondale High School band performed at the reopening event in 2017.

Honoring Veterans

The Coliseum pays tribute to veterans in various ways.

33. Eight Empty Seats: Eight seats remain unused at all times, marked with patches and plaques to honor different military branches.

34. Tunnel Between Coliseum and Marriott: A tunnel connects the Coliseum to the Long Island Marriott hotel, used to move performers discreetly.

Community and Legacy

The Coliseum continues to be a vital part of the local community, hosting various events and activities.

35. Celebrity Hangouts: The revamped backstage area includes comfortable suites known as the Artists Quarters.

36. Historical Significance: It has hosted numerous historical events and performances.

37. Community Impact: The Coliseum has been a significant part of the local community.

38. Long Island Nets: The Long Island Nets, the G-League affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets, call the Coliseum home.

39. WWE Events: WWE continues to host high-energy wrestling events at the Coliseum.

40. Current Status: Despite challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coliseum remains busy, hosting concerts, basketball games, and other events.

The Legacy of Nassau Coliseum

Nassau Coliseum isn't just a venue; it's a cornerstone of Long Island's history. From its opening in 1972, it has hosted unforgettable moments, from the New York Islanders' first game to legendary concerts by Elvis Presley and Billy Joel. The arena's renovations have modernized it while preserving its rich heritage. With features like high-speed Wi-Fi, an LED scoreboard, and plush backstage areas, it continues to attract top-tier events. The Coliseum's commitment to honoring veterans and its role in the community make it more than just a sports and entertainment hub. It's a place where memories are made, and history is celebrated. Whether you're a sports fan, a concert-goer, or someone who appreciates local history, Nassau Coliseum offers something special. Its legacy will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly for years to come.