LECOM Event Center is a multi-purpose arena and event venue in Elmira, New York, serving as a central hub for concerts, professional hockey, family shows, ice skating, private events, and community gatherings. Located at 155 N Main St, the venue hosts over 60 events annually and features a regulation-sized ice rink, a recreational turf field, two full bars, luxury suites, and flexible event spaces. It is home to the Elmira Aviators hockey team and has been a cornerstone of downtown Elmira since opening in 2000, originally as First Arena. With a 4.40 rating and strong community engagement, the center is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse programming.
The LECOM Event Center has evolved from its early days as First Arena into a modern, multi-use facility that has hosted the Elmira Jackals, River Sharks, and now the Aviators, maintaining a legacy of professional hockey in the Southern Tier. The venue has been recently modernized and rebranded, preserving its role as a community anchor while expanding its offerings to include concerts, family entertainment, charity events, and private rentals. It continues to support local initiatives and provides a dynamic space for both large-scale productions and intimate gatherings, serving as a cultural and social epicenter for Elmira.
Situated on North Main Street, the LECOM Event Center lies just a short distance from several public memorials and artworks, including the Elmira Police Memorial, the Korea and Vietnam War Memorial, the Spanish-American War Statue, and the Thomas K. Beecher Statue, landmarks that reflect the city’s historical and civic identity. Its location places it at the heart of Elmira’s downtown, surrounded by civic pride and community memory.
Known for its consistent programming, strong attendance, and reputation as the premier entertainment venue in the Southern Tier, the LECOM Event Center stands as a vital part of Elmira’s cultural landscape. It combines a quarter-century of tradition with modern amenities, making it the go-to destination for live events in the region.