The wait is over! Akins Ford Arena will officially open its doors on Friday, December 13, marking a milestone moment for Athens-Clarke County. Akins Ford Arena has been issued a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) and will open on Friday with the inaugural Athens Rock Lobsters home opener vs. the Mississippi Sea Wolves. The iconic B-52s will perform the first concert on Saturday, December 14, and Akins Ford Arena will hold a Community Grand Opening on Sunday, December 15.

“We are thrilled to open the doors of Akins Ford Arena and invite the community into this spectacular venue,” said Paul Cramer, President and CEO of The Classic Center Authority. “Some things are worth waiting for, and this is one of them.” 

The vision for the arena began more than 10 years ago, and following the confirmation of two studies, received the community’s support with the SPLOST vote in 2019. The contract between JE Dunn and Athens-Clarke County Unified Government was signed in 2021, and construction began in 2022. The Classic Center Authority will manage and operate Akins Ford Arena, as it does The Classic Center’s convention center and theatre.

“The Classic Center has a great track record of success as a venue for concerts, conventions, theatre, and more, and I’m thrilled at the opening of Akins Ford Arena which will provide entertainment and sports programming for Athens and Northeast Georgia on a larger scale than ever before,” said Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz. “Come Monday, I’ll be hoarse from screaming to both the Rock Lobsters’ first home game and to hometown heroes The B-52s.”

While the original opening date was pushed back, The Classic Center Authority worked diligently with Athens-Clarke County to address the items necessary to receive certification from the Fire Marshal.

“I am excited to see how Akins Ford Arena accelerates our community with new entertainment offerings,” said Cramer. “Whether it is hosting national touring acts, showcasing local and state artists through the Georgia Music Collections, cheering on the Athens Rock Lobsters pro hockey team, or bringing in large-scale family shows, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy in Akins Ford Arena.” 

For more information on Akins Ford Arena and the opening events, visit AkinsFordArena.com.