ODESSA, TX – [2024] In 2024, the iconic Ector County Coliseum proudly marks its 70th anniversary, a testament to seven decades of delivering exceptional entertainment and community engagement in Odessa, Texas. Since its establishment in 1954, the coliseum has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of the Permian Basin and has become a beloved gathering place for diverse events.
Originally opened in 1954 with a vision to provide a versatile venue for a wide array of activities, the Ector County Coliseum has grown into a premier destination for residents and visitors alike. Hosting everything from thrilling rodeos and unforgettable concerts to family-friendly shows and high-profile sporting events, the coliseum has consistently stood as a symbol of entertainment excellence.
Aaron Martin, Director of the Ector County Coliseum, shares his appreciation for the community’s support, stating, “[Quote].”
To honor this milestone, the Ector County Coliseum has curated a series of special events and activities throughout the year. These include historical exhibitions highlighting the coliseum’s rich heritage and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours on social media. The community will have the unique opportunity to explore the venue’s storied past while envisioning its dynamic future.
As part of the anniversary celebration highlighted on social media, the Ector County Coliseum will pay tribute to the legendary artists and performers who have graced its stage over the years.
The Ector County Coliseum has hosted a remarkable array of renowned acts, including:
- Elvis in 1955 and 1976
- Roby Orbison in 1956 and 1981
- Johnny Cash 1959, 1976, and 1981
- Alice Cooper 1972
- Carpenters 1973
- Chicago 1974
- Fleetwood Mac 1974
- Merle Haggard 1974, 1973, 1982, 1984, 1990, and 1991
- Conway Twitty 1975, 1976, 7977 with Loretta Lynn each time and 1988 with Randy Travis
- Black Sabbath 1975
- Doobie Brothers 1975, 1976, and 1977
- Willie Nelson 1977, 1975, 1976, 1982, and 1984
- Blue Oyster Cult 1977
- Waylon Jennings 1977
- Ronnie Milsap 1977
- Rush 1977 x 2 in January and October of that year and 1984
- Heart 1978, 1983, and 1985
- Jerry Lee Lewis with Chubby Checker 1980
- ZZ Top 1980, 1981, 1986, 1991, and 1994
- Judas Priest 1981, 1982, and 1986
- Carlos Santana 1981
- Pat Benatar 1981 and 2017
- Kenny Rogers 1981
- Roy Orbison and The Bellamy Brothers 1981
- Sammy Hagar 1982, 1983, and 1984
- Cheap Trick 1982
- Charlie Daniels Band 1982
- REO Speedwagon 1984 and 1988
- Mötley Crüe 1985
- Kiss 1984, 1985, 1990
- Foreigner 1982 and 1985
- The Beach Boys in 1982 and 2023
- Alabama 1982 with Clint Black opening
- Hall & Oates 1983
- Def Leppard 1983, 1988, 1993
- Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers 1983
- Huey Lewis & The News 1984
- Nightranger 1984 and 1985
- George Straight 1985 2x in January and December 1987, 1989, 1990, 1992 for two nights, and 1996
- Bon Jovi 1985
- Joan Jett 1985
- Aerosmith 1986
- Oak Ridge Boys 1983
- Rick Springfield 1983 and 1984
- Hank Williams 1984
- Metallica 1986, 1989, 1992
- The Judds 1987
- Menudo 1987
- Tina Turner 1987
- Poison 1988
- Dwight Yoakam 1988
- Run DMC 1988 featuring Fresh Prince, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Public Enemy, and JJ Fad
- Randy Travis 1988
- Keith Sweat and Salt ‘N Pepper 1988
- Bad Company 1990
- Clint Blak 1991
- Tanya Tucker with Travis Tritt 1991
- Color Me Badd 1992
- REba 1992
- Brooks & Dunn 1993
- Smashing Pumpkins 1994
- Tracy Lawrence 1995
- Clay Walker 1995
- Tim McGraw 1995
- Bush 1996
- Alan Jackson 1996
- Juan Gabriel 1996
- Lynyrd Skynyrd 1999
- Kenny Chesney 2003
- Smokey Robinson 2018
- George Thorogood 2019
In recognizing the iconic performers who have graced our stage, from Elvis to Fleetwood Mac, we pay homage to the legends who have contributed to the Coliseum’s storied history. This is not a comprehensive list of performers, rather a glimpse into the extraordinary moments that have defined the Ector County Coliseum. As we look back with gratitude, we eagerly anticipate many more years of bringing exceptional entertainment to the Permian Basin.
For further information and to stay updated on our anniversary celebrations, please visit EctorCountyColiseum.org and follow us on social media @EctorCountyColiseum.
