The Opening of the Great Western Forum in 1967: A New Era in Sports Entertainment

Name: The Opening of the Great Western Forum in 1967: A New Era in Sports Entertainment
Start: 1967-12-30
Location: Unspecified

Unveiling the Great Western Forum

Great Western Forum: A Home for Champions

The Great Western Forum, located in Los Angeles, California, opened its doors on December 30, 1967. Built primarily as a basketball venue, the Forum soon became synonymous with sports and entertainment. The venue was crafted to host various events, becoming a beloved arena in Los Angeles. Initially, it was the home of the Los Angeles Lakers, who quickly established a legacy of success and excitement within its walls.

The Vision Behind the Forum’s Construction

Designed by the renowned architect James D. Resor, the Great Western Forum featured a striking design that captured the era's architectural aesthetics. The idea was to create not just a sports arena but a multi-purpose venue that could host concerts, boxing matches, and ice shows alongside basketball games. Its large, circular design and distinctive seating arrangement were tailored to provide an intimate experience for all attendees, making it one of the premier locations in Los Angeles.

The Impact of the Great Western Forum

Great Western Forum: A Cultural Landmark

Over the years, the Great Western Forum evolved from just being a sports arena into a cultural landmark in Los Angeles. It hosted legendary performances by iconic musicians such as Elton John, Madonna, and the Eagles. Each event contributed to the Forum's reputation as a diverse space for all types of entertainment, creating a rich tapestry of memories that locals still cherish.

Memorable Moments in Sports History

The arena has been the site of numerous unforgettable moments in sports history. From Magic Johnson's inspiring plays to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's skyhook shots, the Forum witnessed the rise of basketball legends. It also played host to the NHL's Los Angeles Kings and multiple championship games which solidified its status as a premier sports venue.

Fun Fact

Great Western Forum’s Unique Features

The Forum was known for its distinctive circular shape and innovative acoustics, which made it ideal for concerts. Notably, the building's original seating arrangement was designed to ensure that all guests had an unobstructed view of the action, a rarity in many arenas at the time.