Beaver Stadium
Beaver Stadium is a prominent college football stadium located on the campus of Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pennsylvania. It serves as the home field for the Penn State Nittany Lions football team, which competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision.
History and Naming
The stadium is named in honor of James A. Beaver, a former governor of Pennsylvania (1887–1891), and a president of the university's board of trustees. James A. Beaver was also a native of Millerstown. Beaver Stadium was constructed to replace New Beaver Field, and its original structure has undergone several renovations and expansions since its opening.
Capacity and Structure
With an official capacity of 106,572, Beaver Stadium is the second-largest stadium in the Western Hemisphere and the fourth-largest globally. It has become an iconic venue for college football, known for its capacity to host large crowds, with the highest attendance recorded on October 21, 2017, when 110,823 fans attended a game.
Cultural Significance
Beaver Stadium is a central part of the cultural and athletic life at Penn State University. It not only hosts thrilling football games but also serves as a gathering place for students, alumni, and fans. The stadium is synonymous with the vibrant tradition of tailgating and game-day festivities that occur on autumn Saturdays.
Future Developments
There are plans to expand the number of events held at Beaver Stadium, including major concerts and potentially hosting an NHL Winter Classic. Despite these aspirations, fans and stakeholders have mixed feelings about potential replacements or extensive renovations due to the stadium's historical significance and tradition.