Stadium opens in 2006
Glendale began construction on a new stadium in 2003, and three years later, on August 1, 2006, the University of Phoenix Stadium officially opened as the new home of the NFL Cardinals.
The University of Phoenix purchased the naming rights in September 2006, albeit it will initially be known as the Cardinals Stadium. The first stadium on the continent with a retractable roof and playing field is an architectural landmark. The stadium, which was designed by Peter Eisenman, has an external shell of shimmering metal panels that reflects the ebb and flow of desert light, and 21 vertical glass walled openings that provide exceptional views of the desert horizon to stadium patrons.
Super Bowl XLII in 2008
The first Super Bowl was held at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008. All eyes were on Glendale as the Giants took on the Patriots in front of 71,101 spectators.
With 97.5 million viewers tuned in, the game’s telecast at the time shattered the previous record for the most viewed game. The National Anthem was sung by local celebrity Jordan Sparks, and during the halftime show, the crowd shook out to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. A victory score of 17-14 signaled the end of the fourth quarter for Giants supporters.
Super Bowl XLIX in 2015
The 2015 Super Bowl was held in Glendale on February 1. The game was the most viewed show in American television history with 114.4 million people. Idina Menzel sang the National Anthem as Katy Perry thrilled the crowd of 70,288 Patriots and Seahawks supporters during the halftime show. In the fourth quarter, 120.8 million viewers watched the Patriots’ comeback win the game with a final score of 28-24.
Super Bowl LVII in 2023
On February 12, 2023, the 2023 Super Bowl will begin at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Visit Glendale, Arizona to explore new activities and a completely new footprint created since the 2015 game and be a part of history. Tiger Woods’ PopStroke, the VAI Resort, and countless other attractions that have altered the stadium’s surrounding cityscape will be moving into the Sports & Entertainment District.
Extraordinary and first-hand Arizona’s Glendale is unique in every way. Glendale is conveniently situated 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, just west of Phoenix. Glendale is the top location for major events, with 16 hotels and more over 1,800 guest rooms. We have an entire district dedicated to promoting sports and entertainment, which speaks for itself. The Sport & Entertainment District in Glendale features over 250 events each year along with restaurants, nightlife, and retail.
Super Bowl 2023 planning should begin now! During the Big Game, we hope to see you in Glendale!
