Our Legacy
Since its opening in 1966, Oakland Arena has brought the world’s greatest talent to Oakland. With over 58 years of unforgettable music, sports, and memories, Oakland Arena has defined itself as an iconic landmark within the Bay Area. We take immense pride in the rich history and monumental events that have unfolded within its walls, shaping both the venue and the community it serves.
To honor the remarkable history, the ASM Global-Oakland team designed the “Legacy Wall”, — a tribute to the legendary performers, athletes, and influential figures whose contributions have defined the Arena’s legacy.
Located on the main concourse near sections 112-117, The Legacy Wall is a tribute to the legendary performers, athletes, and influential figures who have shaped Oakland Arena’s iconic history. This distinguished space honors those whose contributions to music, sports, and entertainment have left a memorable mark in Oakland. Featuring moments in time and memories, the Legacy Wall celebrates the many artists who have graced our stage and played a pivotal role in the Arena’s rich history.
Iconic Milestones and Events
This is a curated selection of notable events that have taken place at the Arena since its opening in 1966. It does not represent a comprehensive list of all events held at the venue.
1960's
The Arena
Groundbreaking Ceremony
On April 15, 1964, construction began on the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena, marking the start of a historic transformation in East Oakland that would shape the site into a legendary venue.
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
Grand Opening
On November 9,1966 Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena opened its doors, ushering in a new era of entertainment, sporting events, employment opportunities and community pride.
1966 – The Righteous Brothers
First Performance at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena The legendary duo The Righteous Brothers took the stage, delivering the inaugural performance at the newly opened Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena, marking the beginning of its rich legacy in live entertainment.
Oakland Golden Seals
Seasons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
From 1966 to 1976, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena was home to the iconic Oakland Golden Seals. During this exciting decade, the team brought thrilling hockey action to the Bay Area, leaving a lasting legacy and unforgettable memories for fans who packed the Arena to cheer on their team.
Bay Bombers
Seasons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
From 1966 to 1973, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena proudly hosted the Bay Bombers, a dominant force in professional roller derby. During this exciting era, the Arena became the epicenter of thrilling bouts and unforgettable moments, as the Bay Bombers captivated fans and established their place in sports history.
The Rolling Stones
1969, 1994, 1999, 2002 & 2013
1970's
Golden State Warriors
First Season at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
In 1971, the Golden State Warriors made their debut at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena, marking a significant chapter in Bay Area basketball and their journey in the NBA.
Elvis Presley
1970
1980's
Grateful Dead
Record Performances at Oakland Complex
From 1981 to 1995, the legendary Grateful Dead graced the Oakland Complex 66 times, setting a record for the most performances ever held here.
The Who
1980, 1982, 2013 & 2016
Bruce Springsteen
1984, 1999, 2012 & 2016
1985: Oakland Aces
1985: Motorcycle Ice Racing
1989: The Rat Pack
Pink Floyd
1987
1990's
1996 Oakland Arena Renovation
Completion of Major Renovations
In 1996, the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena underwent a major renovation, enhancing the venue while preserving its rich history. As part of this expansive project, the arena's name was changed from "Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena" to "The Arena in Oakland," marking a new era for the iconic venue while honoring its storied legacy.
Tina Turner
1998 & 2000
Fleetwood Mac
1990, 2003, 2009, 2014, 2015 & 2018
Elton John
1992, 2001, 2010 & 2019
Mural dedicated by Section 126
Green Day
1995, 2002 & 2017
2000's
KISS
2000, 2009 & 2020
Paul McCartney
2000 & 2022
Arena Name
Oakland Arena: 2001-2006
In 2001, the venue formerly known as The Arena in Oakland was officially renamed to Oakland Arena.
Van Halen
2004, 2007 & 2012
Arena Name
Oracle Arena:2006-2019
In 2006, the venue officially became Oracle Arena as part of a partnership with the technology company Oracle Corporation.
Roger Waters
2007, 2010 & 2017
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
2007 & 2011
Metallica
2008
2010's
Muse
2010, 2013, 2015, 2019 & 2023
Maná
2012, 2016, 2019 & 2023
New Edition
2012, 2014, 2022 & 2023
Drake
2013 & 2018
Prince
Final Arena Performance
On March 4, 2016, the legendary Prince took the stage at Oracle Arena, which would ultimately be his final Arena performance before his passing just months later. This unforgettable sold-out concert at Oracle Arena was iconic and showcased Prince’s extraordinary talent and electrifying presence while leaving a lasting impact on all who were there and for years to come.
Mural dedicated by Section 110-112
BTS
First K-pop Show at Oracle Arena
In 2018, BTS made history with their first K-pop performance at Oracle Arena, establishing the venue as the central hub for K-pop in the Bay Area. Their electrifying concert captivated fans, signifying a monumental moment for both the venue and the Bay Area’s music scene.
Golden State Warriors
NBA Championship Victories
The Golden State Warriors won NBA Championships in 2015, 2017, and 2018. These victories, along with the Arena hosting the NBA Finals five years in a row, solidified the venue's place as a key landmark in basketball history.
Arena Name
Oakland Arena: 2019-Present
In 2019, after years of being known as Oracle Arena, the venue once again embraced its original name—Oakland Arena.
2020's
Zach Bryan
Record-Breaking Night at Oakland Arena
In 2023, Zach Bryan made history by setting a new record for most concert tickets sold at the Oakland Arena since the 1996 renovation.
Pearl Jam
2022
Usher
2011 & 2024
Memories Captured By Renowned Bay Area Photographers
Anthony Pidgeon
Bryon Woods
Clayton Call
Chloe Catajan
Chris Tuite
Larry Hulst
Matthew Medina
Nathaniel S. Butler
Noah Graham
Priscilla Rodriquez
Richard McCaffery
Raymond Ahner
Steve Jennings
Tim Mosenfelder
We invite you to share your most memorable experience with us. Please send us an email at marketing@coliseum.com and share your story with us!