Santander Arena, located at 700 Penn Street, Reading, Pennsylvania 19602, stands as a beacon of entertainment and community engagement in Berks County. Since its opening in 2001, the arena has hosted a myriad of events, ranging from exhilarating concerts to thrilling sports matches, solidifying its reputation as a premier venue in the region.
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A Glimpse into History
Constructed on the former site of the Astor Theater—a grand movie palace from the early 20th century—the Santander Arena carries forward a legacy of cultural enrichment. The Astor Theater, which closed its doors in 1975, remained vacant for over two decades before making way for the arena. During construction, efforts were made to preserve elements of the Astor, including its ornate Art Deco chandelier and gates, which are now displayed within the arena, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.
Architectural and Functional Features
Designed by STV Architects Inc. and PBK Architects Inc., the arena boasts a seating capacity that varies based on the event type:
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Concerts: 6,000–9,000 attendees
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Basketball: 8,000 attendees
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Ice Hockey: 6,500 attendees
The facility includes 701 club seats and 20 luxury suites, enhancing the spectator experience. Additionally, the arena offers 25,200 square feet of banquet space, accommodating up to 1,200 guests, making it suitable for large functions.
Home Teams and Sporting Events
Santander Arena serves as the home ground for the Reading Royals, an ECHL ice hockey team that has been thrilling fans since the arena’s inception. The venue has also hosted various other sports teams over the years, including indoor football and lacrosse teams, showcasing its versatility in accommodating diverse sporting events.
Memorable Performances and Events
The arena has a rich history of hosting notable events that have left an indelible mark on attendees. In December 2022, Daddy Yankee’s sold-out performance set a new record as the highest-grossing show in the venue’s history, highlighting the arena’s capacity to attract top-tier talent and large audiences.
Other significant performances include:
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Phish (2013): Their Fall Tour stop at Santander Arena is widely regarded as a standout performance.
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Barenaked Ladies (2001): Marking their first performance in Reading.
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Slipknot and Korn (2014): A dynamic concert featuring prominent metal bands.
Recent Renovations and Enhancements
In response to evolving audience expectations, Santander Arena underwent a $15 million renovation project aimed at enhancing the spectator experience. Upgrades included the installation of new cushioned seats equipped with cup holders, a complete overhaul of the suite level, and the introduction of premium spaces like the Loft Lounge. These improvements reflect the arena’s commitment to providing a comfortable and modern environment for its patrons.
Record-Breaking Fiscal Performance
The 2022-2023 fiscal year marked a period of unprecedented success for Santander Arena and the adjacent Performing Arts Center. The venues collectively sold over 333,000 tickets across 172 events, representing a 20% increase from the previous record-setting season. This surge in attendance contributed to gross ticket sales exceeding $16 million, underscoring the arena’s pivotal role in the local entertainment landscape.
Community Impact and Engagement
Beyond hosting high-profile events, Santander Arena plays a crucial role in the Reading community. By attracting visitors to the downtown area, the arena stimulates local businesses and contributes to the city’s economic vitality. Its diverse programming ensures that residents have access to a wide array of cultural and entertainment options, fostering a vibrant community spirit.
Upcoming Events
Looking ahead, Santander Arena continues to offer an exciting lineup of events. In April 2025, the arena will host performances by artists such as J Balvin and Gabriel Iglesias, as well as family-friendly shows like “The Thorn.” These events exemplify the venue’s dedication to catering to a broad audience with varied interests.
In Short
Santander Arena stands as a testament to Reading’s rich cultural heritage and its ongoing commitment to providing top-tier entertainment. Through continuous enhancements and a diverse event roster, the arena remains a cherished destination for both residents and visitors, contributing significantly to the vibrancy and economic health of the community.
