Kroger Field at C.M. Newton Grounds is a special place for football fans like me. I love visiting this stadium in Lexington, Kentucky. It’s the home of the Kentucky Wildcats football team and has a rich history.
The stadium got its current name in 2017 when the University of Kentucky partnered with Kroger, a big retail company. Before that, it was called Commonwealth Stadium. The playing surface is named C.M. Newton Grounds, honoring a former UK athletics director.
I’m always impressed by the beautiful Bermuda grass field when I visit. The stadium has gone through many changes over the years to make it better for fans. It’s not just for football – Kroger Field hosts other events too, making it a key part of the community.
Key Takeaways
- Kroger Field is the home stadium for Kentucky Wildcats football in Lexington
- The stadium was renamed in 2017 as part of a partnership with Kroger
- It features a Bermuda grass playing surface and hosts various community events
History and Background
Kroger Field has a rich history tied to the University of Kentucky. Its story involves changes in name and leadership that shaped its identity. Let’s explore how this stadium came to be.
Kroger Field Origins and Naming Rights
I was excited when Kroger Field got its new name on May 1, 2017. It was a big day for the University of Kentucky! They teamed up with Kroger, a big store chain from Cincinnati. This deal was special – it was the first time a company got to name a stadium in the Southeastern Conference.
Before this, I knew the stadium as Commonwealth Stadium. The switch to Kroger Field was part of a bigger plan. JMI Sports, who works with UK, helped make this happen. They wanted to bring in more money for UK’s sports teams.
C.M. Newton’s Legacy
I love that the field itself is named after C.M. Newton. He was a big deal at UK. Newton was in charge of UK’s sports from 1989 to 2000. He did so much good that they named the field after him in 2001.
Even when the stadium’s name changed to Kroger Field, they kept Newton’s name for the playing area. Now it’s called C.M. Newton Grounds. It’s nice to see UK keeping his memory alive like this.
Previous Names and Evolution
I’ve seen this stadium go through a lot of changes. It started out as Commonwealth Stadium in 1973. That name stuck for over 40 years!
Before that, UK played at a place called Stoll Field. But they needed more room for fans. So they built Commonwealth Stadium. It could hold way more people – about 58,000 at first.
Over the years, I’ve watched them make the stadium better. They added more seats and fancy boxes for people to watch from. Now, with its new name and updates, Kroger Field can hold over 61,000 fans. It’s come a long way!
Stadium Details and Features
Kroger Field has some amazing features that make it a top-notch venue for football games. I’ve been impressed by its modern design, comfortable seating, and high-tech amenities that enhance the fan experience.
Design and Architecture
The stadium’s exterior facade catches my eye with its sleek, contemporary look. HNTB, the architecture firm behind the design, did a great job blending modern elements with classic stadium features. I love how the open concourses allow me to keep an eye on the field even when I’m grabbing snacks.
The overall layout is fan-friendly, with wide walkways and clear signage. It’s easy for me to find my way around. The seating bowl has a steep pitch, giving me a great view of the action no matter where I sit.
Seating Capacity and Amenities
Kroger Field can hold up to 61,000 fans. That’s a lot of Wildcats supporters! I’ve found the seats to be pretty comfy, with good legroom.
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For those wanting a premium experience, there are:
- Club seats with access to indoor lounges
- Loge boxes for small groups
- Luxury suites with private amenities
Food options are plentiful. I can grab anything from classic hot dogs to local specialties. Restrooms are clean and easily accessible throughout the stadium.
Innovative Technologies
The tech at Kroger Field really impresses me. Two massive LED video boards dominate the end zones, each about 37 feet high by 80 feet wide. They show crystal-clear replays and game info.
A custom audio system pumps out clear sound across the stadium. It gets me pumped for big plays! The Wi-Fi is solid too, letting me share moments on social media without a hitch.
As Kroger is the official pharmacy partner of UK Athletics, there are even some health-focused tech features. I’ve noticed digital displays with health tips and reminders throughout the concourses.
Fan Experience
Kroger Field offers a welcoming atmosphere for fans. I’ve found the stadium provides great food, easy access, and fun community programs. Let’s take a closer look at what makes game day special here.
Concessions and Services
I love the variety of food options at Kroger Field. They have classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some local Kentucky specialties. I always grab a bourbon BBQ sandwich – it’s delicious! The Kroger-branded concession stands are a nice touch. They offer fresh, healthy choices like salads and fruit cups.
For convenience, there’s a pharmacy kiosk near section 12. It’s great for picking up essentials or medications you might have forgotten. I’ve used it to grab some sunscreen on hot game days.
The stadium also has several grab-and-go markets. These are perfect for quick snacks without missing any action on the field.
Accessibility and Comfort
I find Kroger Field very easy to navigate. Wide concourses and clear signage help me get around quickly. There are plenty of restrooms, so lines move fast during halftime.
Seating is comfortable, with good leg room in most sections. I especially like the chairback seats in the lower bowl. For fans with mobility issues, there are elevators and wheelchair-accessible seating areas.
On hot days, I appreciate the misting stations near the concourses. They’re a refreshing way to cool off between plays.
Community Engagement
Kroger Field does a great job connecting with fans beyond game day. I’ve participated in their “Kroger Fields Community Program” which hosts events year-round. These include youth football clinics and health screenings.
The stadium’s graphics walls are a fun new addition. They showcase university scenes and make for great photo ops. I always snap a family picture here before kickoff.
During games, the video board highlights local charities and community initiatives. It’s inspiring to see how the team gives back to Kentucky.
Events and Impact
Kroger Field hosts exciting events year-round. From thrilling football games to fun community gatherings, there’s always something happening at this versatile venue. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of events and their impact.
Sporting Events
I’ve seen some incredible athletic competitions at Kroger Field. The Kentucky Wildcats football team plays their home games here, and the atmosphere is electric on game days. The stadium comes alive with blue and white as fans cheer on their team.
SEC matchups are especially thrilling. I love watching the Wildcats take on tough conference rivals. The energy in the stadium is unmatched.
High school football also gets its time to shine. The state championship games are held here, giving young athletes a chance to play on a big stage. It’s inspiring to see the next generation of talent.
Concerts and Special Events
Kroger Field isn’t just for sports. I’ve attended some fantastic concerts and special events here too. The venue transforms for these occasions, offering a unique experience.
One event I always look forward to is the Simple Truth 5k. It’s a fun run that brings the community together for a good cause.
The field has also hosted graduation ceremonies, adding a touch of grandeur to these important milestones. The spacious setting allows for large gatherings and creates lasting memories.
Economic and Community Impact
I’ve noticed how Kroger Field positively affects the local economy and community. On game days, nearby businesses buzz with activity as fans flock to the area.
The stadium also provides job opportunities, from event staff to concession workers. This helps boost local employment.
Community engagement is a big focus. I’ve seen the University of Kentucky use the venue for outreach programs and charity events. It’s heartening to see how a sports facility can bring people together and make a difference.
The partnership with Kroger has also brought benefits. It’s led to new initiatives that support both the university and the wider community.
Partnerships and Sponsorships
The Kroger Field partnership brings exciting benefits to the University of Kentucky. I’ll tell you about the corporate involvement and what it means for the school and fans.
Corporate Involvement
Kroger teamed up with the University of Kentucky in a big way. They became the official naming sponsor for the football stadium. It’s now called Kroger Field!
Kroger didn’t stop there. They’re also the official fuel, grocery, nutrition, and pharmacy partner for UK. That’s a lot of areas where Kroger is helping out.
The deal is pretty impressive. Kroger is paying $1.85 million each year for this partnership. And it’s set to last for 12 years. That’s a big commitment!
Partnership Benefits
I think this partnership is great for everyone involved. Here’s why:
For students:
- Special deals on groceries
- Help with move-in day
- Nutrition advice and support
For the university:
- Extra funding for sports and other programs
- Improved facilities for athletes and fans
- More exposure through Kroger’s advertising
For fans:
- Better game-day experience at Kroger Field
- Possible discounts on UK merchandise at Kroger stores
- Fun promotions and contests
The partnership also includes multimedia rights. This means Kroger gets to be part of UK’s TV and radio broadcasts. It’s a win-win situation that I’m excited to see develop over the years.
Renovations and Upgrades
Kroger Field has seen some big changes over the years. I’ve noticed how the stadium keeps getting better with each upgrade. Let’s take a look at what’s been done and what’s coming up.
Recent and Planned Renovations
The stadium got new videoboards in 2022. I was impressed by how clear they were! In 2023, they put in a fresh playing surface. It looked amazing when I first saw it.
For 2024, I’m excited about the new lighting and ribbon boards coming to Kroger Field. These will make game days even more fun! The lights will brighten up night games, and the ribbon boards will show cool stats and graphics.
Funding and Costs
UK Athletics has been busy with big projects. I found out the 2024 upgrades will cost $7 million. That’s a lot of money, but it’s all from private funds.
Back in 2015, they spent a whopping $126 million on renovations. That was a huge change for the stadium. It’s great to see UK investing in sports facilities. I’ve heard they’re also working on a new tennis facility and updates to Rupp Arena.
Logistics and Accessibility
Getting to Kroger Field is easy and convenient. I’ll share some tips on parking and getting into the stadium that will make your game day experience smooth and enjoyable.
Parking and Traffic Flow
I’ve found that parking at Kroger Field is well-organized. There are several lots around the stadium, with some reserved for season ticket holders. I usually park in the Blue Lot, which is closest to the stadium. It fills up fast, so I like to arrive early.
On game days, traffic can get heavy near the stadium. I recommend using the official mobile app for real-time parking updates and traffic alerts. It’s super helpful!
Lexington offers shuttle services from downtown to the stadium. I’ve used this a few times, and it’s a great option to avoid parking hassles.
Stadium Access on Game Days
Entering Kroger Field is generally quick and efficient. I always check the stadium website for the latest entry procedures before game day.
There are multiple gates around the stadium. I prefer Gate 9 because it’s usually less crowded. Security checks are thorough but move quickly.
For students, there’s a special entrance near the student section. It’s super convenient during move-in week when Kroger partners with UK for special events.
Inside, I find the concourses easy to navigate. There are plenty of signs pointing to sections, restrooms, and concessions. The Kroger-branded areas often have shorter lines for snacks and drinks.
Sustainability and Conservation Efforts
I’ve noticed some cool eco-friendly moves happening at Kroger Field. The stadium is stepping up its game when it comes to being green.
One thing that caught my eye is the new goal for produce suppliers. Kroger wants them to use better pest control methods by 2028 or 2030. This should help protect bees and other important critters.
The field itself is a mix of natural and artificial turf. While I’m not sure if they use S5 synthetic turf, I know many stadiums are moving towards more sustainable options.
I love seeing the Kentucky bluegrass on the field. It’s not just pretty – it’s also tough and can handle lots of foot traffic. Plus, it’s native to the area, which is great for local ecosystems.
Here are some other green efforts I’ve spotted:
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Recycling bins throughout the stadium
- Water-saving fixtures in restrooms
It’s awesome to see a big venue like Kroger Field caring about the environment. Every little bit helps!
Frequently Asked Questions
Kroger Field offers many options for fans attending events. Here are answers to some common questions about seating, capacity, events, and facilities at the stadium.
What are the seating options available at Kroger Field?
Kroger Field has a variety of seating choices. I can sit in general admission seats, club seats, or luxury suites. There are also special sections for students and visiting team fans.
Wheelchair accessible seating is available throughout the stadium. I can check the Kroger Field seating chart for more details on locations and amenities.
What is the official capacity of the Kroger Field for football games?
Kroger Field can hold 61,000 fans for football games. This makes it one of the larger college stadiums in the region.
The capacity can change slightly for special events. But for most Kentucky Wildcats home games, I can expect around 61,000 fellow fans cheering alongside me.
Can you provide information on upcoming events at Kroger Field?
I can find a full schedule of upcoming football games and other events on the UK Athletics website. This includes kickoff times, ticket information, and special promotions.
The stadium also hosts occasional concerts and community events. I should check back often to see what’s coming up at Kroger Field.
How can I find the best hotels near Kroger Field?
There are several hotels within a short drive of Kroger Field. I can search online for options in downtown Lexington or near the University of Kentucky campus.
Some popular choices include chain hotels and local bed and breakfasts. I might want to book early for big game weekends, as rooms can fill up fast.
What facilities and services are accessible through the different gates at Kroger Field?
Each gate at Kroger Field offers different amenities. I can find restrooms, concession stands, and souvenir shops near most entrances.
Some gates lead to special areas like the club level or student sections. I should check my ticket to see which gate is best for my seat location.
Does Kroger Field offer special events like concerts in addition to sports?
Yes, Kroger Field hosts more than just football. I can sometimes catch concerts or community events at the stadium.
Past events have included big-name music acts and local festivals. I should keep an eye on the UK Athletics website for announcements about upcoming special events at Kroger Field.
