PeoplesBank Arena

PeoplesBank Arena, formerly known as XL Center and originally established as the Hartford Civic Center, is a multipurpose indoor sports and entertainment facility located in downtown Hartford, Connecticut, United States. The venue first opened on January 9, 1975, and has since hosted professional ice hockey, collegiate basketball, concerts, exhibitions, and other public events. It is owned by the City of Hartford, with the Capital Region Development Authority overseeing its management arrangements and Oak View Group responsible for venue operations. In June 2025, the facility adopted its current name following a naming-rights agreement with PeoplesBank.

The arena accommodates approximately 16,000 spectators, depending on the event and seating configuration. Its facilities support a variety of sporting and entertainment activities, making it an important venue for the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League and the University of Connecticut's basketball programs. Over the years, the building has undergone several improvements to modernize its infrastructure and enhance the visitor experience. In 2010, a new centrally suspended scoreboard and sound system were installed. Further improvements followed in 2014, including upgrades to building systems and the introduction of premium seating facilities.
 

In 2025, PeoplesBank Arena embarked on a major renovation project intended to modernize the venue and improve its facilities for spectators, athletes, performers, and event staff. Planned improvements included replacement seating, new premium hospitality spaces, upgraded locker rooms, enhanced concessions, and improvements to backstage and event-production infrastructure. These developments form part of a broader effort to maintain the arena as a significant sports and entertainment destination in Connecticut.