Laredo Entertainment Center

The stars have aligned at Laredo's new state-of-the-art entertainment facility. Come together for superstar concerts, spectacular family shows, world-class sporting events, and breathtaking ice shows.

Large or small, extravagant or simple, Cher or celebration, we make it all happen right here, right now. Be a part of Laredo's newest shining star -- your Laredo Entertainment Center.

History In The Making:: The Laredo Entertainment Center is a first class, state-of-the-art multipurpose facility developed by Arena Ventures LLC. This multi-use facility has introduced affordable, family-oriented entertainment to the South Texas and Northern Mexico markets, including major concerts, sporting events, family and ice shows, conventions, trade shows, and civic events.

During the late 1990s, businessman Glenn Hart made frequent business trips to Laredo and consistently took note of the city's tremendous growth. He also noticed that South Texas and Northern Mexico were missing a modern venue to attract sporting events, top name concerts and family shows. At the time, area residents had to drive two or more hours to the nearest entertainment facility. So in 1999, Hart and five businessmen formed Arena Ventures -- the organization that partnered with the City of Laredo -- to build a world-class entertainment facility.

The City of Laredo funded the $36.5 million project through a one-quarter percent sales tax increase that was approved by Laredo voters on August 12, 2000, with the facility's groundbreaking taking place in June 2001. The Laredo Entertainment Center was constructed in 15 months at a cost of $36.5 million. The economic impact to the local community will exceed $100 million dollars annually and generate hundreds of local jobs.

The facility's management company, SMG Management, oversees all aspects of the arena including operations, concessions, scheduling, ticketing, and marketing. SMG Management is the world's foremost leader in the private development and management of public assembly facilities, including stadiums, arenas, theaters and exhibition/convention centers. It has been in the management business for over 23 years. It presently manages 156 facilities worldwide.

With 32,000 square feet of continuous open floor space, the LEC has the largest indoor convention space in South Texas. The 178,000 square foot facility boasts a seating capacity of 10,000 with 14 luxury suites, six meeting rooms and a private club. The facility's luxury suites include concierge service, a television, and seating for twelve to fourteen people, among other amenities. The clubhouse level, which is on the same level as the luxury suites, features a bar overlooking the main floor.

On the north end of town, the LEC sits on 25 acres at Jacaman Road and Loop 20 -- property that Arena Ventures donated to the City of Laredo. Arena Ventures owns 35 additional acres around the site that is currently being developed with hotels, specialized retail stores and restaurants.