Salem Civic Center | Salem

The Salem Civic Center, located at 1001 Roanoke Boulevard in Salem, Virginia, is a premier multi-purpose arena and event complex that has been a focal point for sports, entertainment, conventions, and community activities since its opening in 1967. It forms part of the larger James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex, named after a prominent local civic leader, and plays a vital role in Salem’s cultural and recreational landscape.

Facility Overview

The Civic Center is designed to accommodate a wide variety of events with flexible spaces and modern amenities. The main arena offers approximately 21,000 square feet of open floor space with a seating capacity of about 6,820, which can be adjusted depending on the type of event - from concerts and sporting events to large conventions and trade shows.

Beyond the main arena, the Salem Civic Center includes several additional spaces that support smaller meetings, banquets, and community gatherings:

Annex: A 10,000-square-foot facility that can be used for exhibitions, receptions, and indoor events.

Community Room: About 5,040 square feet, ideal for meetings, classes, or smaller social events.

Parlors: Four smaller rooms of approximately 1,000 square feet each, providing spaces for workshops, breakout sessions, or intimate gatherings.

Additional meeting rooms and event spaces enhance the center’s versatility.

The entire facility is equipped with modern infrastructure including sound and lighting systems, concession areas, and ample parking. The Civic Center is fully accessible, ensuring all guests can attend events comfortably.

Sporting Events and Legacy

The Salem Civic Center has a rich history as a sports venue. It has been particularly renowned for hosting collegiate basketball tournaments, including:

The Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) Men's Basketball Tournament since 1977, drawing strong regional competition and fan support.

The NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Final Four, which the Civic Center hosted multiple times between 1996 and 2018, highlighting its national reputation in college sports.

Historically, the venue also served as home to professional and semi-professional ice hockey teams such as the Roanoke Valley Rebels and Salem Raiders during the 1960s and 1980s, further diversifying its sporting significance.

Adjacent to the Civic Center is the Salem Football Stadium, which hosts the annual Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl, the NCAA Division III National Football Championship game. While the stadium is separate, the proximity and shared use underline Salem’s status as a hub for collegiate athletics.

Entertainment and Cultural Events

The Salem Civic Center is a major destination for entertainment in the region, hosting concerts, performances, and community celebrations. Over the decades, the venue has welcomed legendary artists including Johnny Cash, Kenny Chesney, Def Leppard, and many others, making it a cornerstone for live music and touring acts in southwestern Virginia.

The Civic Center also hosts a variety of annual and recurring events that are deeply ingrained in the local culture, such as:

The Salem Fair, an annual summer festival known for its family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, food vendors, and rides. Notably, the fair offers free admission and parking, encouraging broad community participation.

The Roanoke Valley Horse Show, a traditional equestrian event that showcases local and regional talent.

Numerous community events, trade shows, conventions, and private functions ranging from corporate meetings to weddings.

In addition to large-scale events, the Civic Center supports local organizations by providing regular meeting spaces for clubs such as Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis, reinforcing its role as a community hub.

Visitor Services and Amenities

The facility’s box office operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering ticket sales and event information. Tickets for major events are also available online through platforms like Ticketmaster.

The Civic Center provides ample parking and convenient access, with facilities designed to accommodate both small gatherings and large crowds efficiently. Concessions offering a range of food and beverage options are available during events, enhancing visitor comfort.

For event planners, the Salem Civic Center offers comprehensive support services including event coordination, technical assistance, and customizable rental packages. The staff is experienced in managing diverse events, ensuring seamless execution from start to finish.

Contact and Booking

Address: 1001 Roanoke Boulevard, Salem, VA 24153

Phone: (540) 375-3004

Box Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Event organizers can contact the Civic Center’s Director or Assistant Director of Civic Facilities for bookings and detailed information regarding rental rates, availability, and logistical support.

Summary

The Salem Civic Center stands as a versatile and well-equipped venue that has significantly contributed to Salem’s social and cultural vibrancy for over half a century. Its combination of large-scale event capacity, historical significance in sports, and role as a hub for entertainment and community gatherings makes it an indispensable asset to the city and the greater Roanoke Valley region. Whether hosting championship basketball games, concerts, fairs, or local meetings, the Civic Center continues to provide a welcoming and dynamic environment for residents and visitors alike.