Foster Pavilion: Your complete guide to events at University of Alabama at Birmingham

Foster Pavilion is one of Birmingham’s premier indoor venues and the home of UAB Blazers basketball. Located on the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus, the arena hosts college basketball, concerts, university events and community gatherings throughout the year. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Foster Pavilion.

What is Foster Pavilion?

Foster Pavilion is a multi-purpose indoor arena on the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus. Opened in 1988, it serves as the home court for UAB Blazers men’s and women’s basketball teams and regularly hosts concerts, commencements and other live events. The arena is named after a major university benefactor and is recognized for its modern facilities, energetic atmosphere and strong student engagement.

Where is Foster Pavilion located?

Foster Pavilion is located at 1700 University Boulevard in Birmingham, Alabama, on the UAB campus. The arena sits near academic and athletic facilities, making it a central destination for students and visitors. Its location provides easy access from downtown Birmingham and surrounding neighborhoods.

What events are held at Foster Pavilion?

Foster Pavilion hosts a variety of sports and entertainment events throughout the year, with basketball as the main attraction.

UAB Blazers basketball games

The Blazers men’s and women’s basketball teams play all home games at Foster Pavilion. Conference matchups, rivalry games and postseason contests bring passionate fans and create a lively college basketball environment.

Concerts and live entertainment

Foster Pavilion regularly hosts concerts, family shows and touring performances. The arena’s seating layout and acoustics provide strong sightlines and an engaging experience for fans.

Other events at Foster Pavilion

In addition to sports and concerts, the arena hosts university commencements, community events and special performances depending on the season.

Foster Pavilion seating guide

Foster Pavilion has a seating capacity of approximately 8,500 for basketball games, with flexible configurations for concerts and other events. The arena features a bowl-style layout designed to maximize views and keep fans close to the action.

Best seats at Foster Pavilion

Lower level center sections provide the best views for basketball games, floor seats offer close proximity to the stage for concerts, and upper level seats provide a more affordable option with solid sightlines. Seating layouts may vary by event, so checking the seating chart for your specific event is recommended.

Getting to Foster Pavilion

Planning transportation ahead of time can make attending an event much easier, especially during high-demand games or shows.

Parking near Foster Pavilion

Parking is available in several university-operated surface lots and garages surrounding the arena. Availability may vary depending on the event, so arriving early is recommended. Many fans also use nearby private lots or rideshare services to avoid post-event congestion.

Public transportation and walking

Foster Pavilion is accessible via Birmingham public transportation and is within walking distance of campus parking areas and nearby hotels. Rideshare services are also commonly used for convenience during events.

What to know before you go

Foster Pavilion is a smoke-free venue and requires security screenings at entry. Bag policies may apply depending on the event, and concessions and merchandise stands are available throughout the arena. Checking event-specific policies ahead of time can help ensure a smooth visit.

Frequently asked questions about Foster Pavilion

How many people does Foster Pavilion hold?

Foster Pavilion holds approximately 8,500 fans for basketball games, with capacity varying slightly for concerts or other event setups.

Is Foster Pavilion only used for basketball?

No. While basketball is the primary use, the arena also hosts concerts, commencements and various live entertainment events.

Is Foster Pavilion accessible by public transportation?

Yes. The arena is accessible via Birmingham public transportation and is within walking distance of campus parking areas and nearby hotels.

Why Foster Pavilion stands out

Foster Pavilion combines a central campus location, modern facilities and flexible event spaces. From UAB Blazers basketball to concerts and university events, it provides an engaging and high-energy live experience for fans across Birmingham and the surrounding region.