NCAA Basketball

Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum: SeatGeek’s complete guide to events in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

May 3, 2026

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Mary Callahan

Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, often referred to as the LJVM Coliseum, is one of North Carolina’s most recognizable indoor venues. Located in Winston-Salem, the arena is best known as a longtime home for Wake Forest basketball and as a major hub for concerts, family shows, and large-scale live events. With its spacious layout and reputation for hosting high-profile performances, the coliseum continues to play a central role in the region’s entertainment scene.

Whether you’re attending a college basketball game, a touring concert, or a special event, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum offers a classic arena experience with the capacity to handle big crowds. Here’s what to know before buying tickets on SeatGeek.

A cornerstone venue with deep roots in Winston-Salem

Opened in 1982, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum was built to honor military veterans while serving as a premier gathering place for the community. For decades, it stood as the primary home of Wake Forest Demon Deacons men’s basketball before newer facilities came online.

Over the years, the arena has hosted NCAA tournament games, conference championships, major concerts, and nationally touring productions. Its size and versatility helped establish it as one of the most important indoor venues in central North Carolina.

Events fans come to see at LJVM Coliseum

While basketball helped define the venue’s legacy, the coliseum’s event calendar extends far beyond sports. Its large floor space and seating capacity allow it to support a wide range of entertainment options throughout the year.

Events at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum include:

  • College basketball games and neutral-site matchups

  • Concerts from major touring artists

  • Family shows and touring productions

  • Graduations and university ceremonies

  • Community events and large conventions

The venue’s ability to transform for different event types makes it a reliable stop for tours and special events alike.

Seating design and capacity details

Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum seats approximately 14,600 fans, depending on the event setup. The arena features a traditional bowl-style layout with lower and upper seating sections that wrap around the floor.

Lower-level seats provide close proximity to the court or stage, while upper sections offer wider views of the entire arena. For concerts, seating configurations can vary based on stage placement, creating different viewing experiences across sections.

The atmosphere inside the arena

The coliseum is known for its lively crowd energy, especially during sporting events and sold-out concerts. Its enclosed design helps amplify sound, making cheers, music, and crowd reactions feel full and immersive.

During basketball games, the arena’s size allows large crowds to generate momentum-shifting noise. For concerts and shows, the space easily accommodates large productions, lighting rigs, and stage effects.

Getting to Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum

The arena is located near downtown Winston-Salem with access to nearby roads, parking lots, and surrounding venues. Parking is available on site and in adjacent areas, though arriving early is recommended for popular events.

Rideshare services are commonly used for concerts and large shows, offering a convenient option for fans who want to avoid parking congestion.

Finding Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum tickets on SeatGeek

SeatGeek makes it easy to browse tickets for upcoming events at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Fans can explore interactive seating charts, compare prices across sections, and find options that match their budget and preferences.

Deal Score highlights strong values, while mobile ticketing allows for quick entry at the venue. Whether you’re planning in advance or shopping closer to event day, SeatGeek offers flexible ticket options.

Why Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum remains a must-visit

Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum stands out for its history, versatility, and ability to host large-scale events with ease. For sports fans, it represents a significant chapter in Wake Forest basketball history. For concertgoers and event attendees, it delivers a classic arena setting built for major moments.

From championship games to sold-out tours, the coliseum continues to bring big events to Winston-Salem. Check SeatGeek for Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum tickets and experience one of North Carolina’s most enduring live event venues.

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