A Sports Fan's Guide to North Carolina: Must-Visit Venues and Events

North Carolina offers various venues and events catering to sports fans. From monumental stadiums that have hosted historical matches to arenas that serve as the battleground for contemporary sports clashes, North Carolina's sports landscape is diverse and vibrant.

Bank of America Stadium

The Bank of America Stadium, situated in the heart of Charlotte, is the largest stadium in North Carolina, boasting a capacity of 75,419 spectators. Since its inauguration in 1996, the stadium has been home to the Carolina Panthers of the NFL, alongside hosting major events such as Duke's Mayo Bowl and the ACC Championship Game.

Its significance extends beyond football, with the recent addition of Charlotte FC to its roster marking a new chapter in the venue's storied history.

PNC Arena

Raleigh's PNC Arena emerges as a central hub for ice hockey and basketball aficionados. With a seating capacity of 21,500, established in 1999, this arena is the proud home of the Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL and the NC State Wolfpack.

The versatility of PNC Arena, which is capable of hosting large-scale basketball and hockey events, underscores North Carolina's commitment to providing top-tier facilities for diverse sports disciplines.

Spectrum Center

Charlotte's Spectrum Center, with its 20,200-seat capacity, is a beacon for basketball fans. Opened in 2005, it is one of the newer additions to North Carolina's sporting venues, offering a state-of-the-art home for the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA.

The arena's modern facilities and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for those seeking the thrill of high-stakes basketball action.

Bojangles' Coliseum

Charlotte's Bojangles' Coliseum's rich history dating back to 1955 offers a nostalgic journey for sports enthusiasts. Accommodating up to 12,500 spectators, it is a monument to the state's long-standing love affair with sports, particularly hockey.

The Charlotte Checkers of the AHL call this venue home, providing fans with thrilling hockey action in a venue steeped in history.

The Wells Fargo Championship

A premier event on the PGA Tour, the Wells Fargo Championship is held annually in Charlotte, North Carolina. This golf tournament attracts some of the biggest names in the sport, offering fans a chance to see elite golfers compete at the highest level.

The event is known for its challenging course, the Quail Hollow Club, which tests the skills of participating golfers. With a mix of tradition, prestige, and competitive intensity, the Wells Fargo Championship shows North Carolina's rich sporting heritage and its ability to host major sporting events that draw spectators and participants from around the globe.

The Wells Fargo Championship has become increasingly popular among golf-betting fans in recent years. With the legalization of sports betting in North Carolina, anticipation is building that the event will attract even greater attention from the betting community.

Fans can engage more deeply with the tournament through various betting platforms. Notably, the availability of promotions such as the BetMGM bonus code for this event is expected to enhance the betting experience, offering fans new ways to participate and potentially win big as they root for their favorite golfers.

Dreamville Festival in Raleigh

The Dreamville Festival, curated by the acclaimed hip-hop artist J. Cole, a native of North Carolina, is an annual outdoor music event that transcends the typical sports gathering by offering a weekend of exceptional music performances. Located in Raleigh's Dorothea Dix Park, this festival showcases an impressive lineup of artists and fosters a sense of community among attendees.

Scheduled for April 6 & 7, 2024, the festival blends the energetic atmosphere of sports events with the communal spirit of a music concert, making it a unique addition to the state's sports calendar​​.

Krispy Kreme Challenge

The Krispy Kreme Challenge is an event that combines running with the unique challenge of doughnut consumption. Participants start at the NC State Memorial Belltower, run 2.5 miles to a Krispy Kreme location, consume a dozen doughnuts, and then run back to the starting point, all within an hour.

The event is a test of speed, endurance, and ability to strategize the doughnut-eating portion. It's a fundraiser that supports the UNC Children's Hospital, blending community spirit with a fun and challenging athletic endeavor.

MAPL Raleigh Volleyball Tournament

The Mid-Atlantic Power League (MAPL) Raleigh event, taking place on March 2-3, 2024, at the Raleigh Convention Center, is a premier gathering for volleyball enthusiasts. This tournament features competitive play across multiple age divisions, including Girls Blue (14-16s) and Red (13-14s) divisions, and also introduces a unique “Battle of the Bros” segment.

Hosted by the Triangle Volleyball Club, MAPL Raleigh is part of a series that attracts top talent from the region, providing an excellent opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and for spectators to enjoy high-level volleyball action.

Summary

North Carolina's array of sports venues and events offers something for every sports fan, from the adrenaline-pumping action of football and basketball to the strategic nuances of golf and volleyball.

The state's commitment to hosting a wide range of sporting events, coupled with the burgeoning sports betting scene, ensures that its sports culture will continue to thrive and attract fans from across the nation and beyond.