History of Stadium Lights

Modern stadiums feature numerous expected amenities such as concession stands; restaurants; seating with good visibility; and even plentiful rest rooms; audio systems; and night lighting for spectator sports, concerts and events. Throughout history, the sources of light for stadiums have changed but the goal remains the same: to allow fans and participants to enjoy their chosen entertainment or sport during night hours with visibility as if it were day.
    • Under the night lights

    History

    • Roman Colosseum at night

      According to Worldstadiums.com, "The word 'stadium' is the Latin form of the Greek word that describes a standard of length (1 stadium = 600 Greek feet; or 606 feet and 9 inches; or 185 meters). Originally it refers to the measured length of the course in the ancient Greek stadiums."

      One of the world's most famous stadiums, finished in A.D. 80, the Roman Colosseum, featured lighted entrance ways around the arena. According to PBWorks.com, the Roman Colosseum was built to house an array of entertainment for the citizens of Rome. The huge stone building could hold 70,000 people standing, and be emptied in just minutes in case of emergencies. To light the way, hundreds of paraffin torches were installed along the 80 archways. Inside, a chandelier was hung overhead for night shows.

      Stadiums or arenas for jousting were common during the Middle Ages, and stadiums designated for specific sporting events were built in the 19th century and still serve their original purpose. Burnden Park in Manchester, England was inaugurated in 1895, and its final match was played nearly a hundred years later in 1997.

    Past Stadium Lighting

    • From the ancient Olympics in Greece to modern times, stadiums have been home to various sporting events, including tennis, rugby, football, soccer, baseball, cricket and hockey Each sport has its own space requirements, which present specific challenges for night lighting. Until the advent of electric light, stadiums were illuminated by various materials, including torches and gas lanterns.

    Modern Stadium Lighting

    • The first American football game to be played under lights was on November 1929 at Kingsley Park Stadium as the Providence Steamrollers met the Chicago Cardinals. Baseball's first game under lights was in Cincinnati on May 24, 1935.

      According to Mapsofworld.com, metal halide lighting systems are commonly used in modern stadiums: "This system has immense power and can simulate natural daylight conditions. The halide lamps are compact in size and can be focused to a particular point when required. Halide lamps also provide clear visibility to the spectators as well as create the perfect amount of light for television broadcasting."

    Function

    • Powerful night lighting

      Not only does stadium lighting serve the practical function of enabling spectators to watch a game during night hours, but it enables players to see well. Strategically placed, the lights shine equally throughout the arena so all areas are well-lit and visible. Bright lights also make the entry/exit and parking lots more secure. Economically, night lighting extends the numbers of hours teams may play, creating evening revenue. Additionally, concerts often feature extravagant light shows that use other kinds of lights and fireworks.

    Size

    • With stadiums available for nearly all sporting and entertainment events, sufficient and well-placed lighting is vital. Mapsofworld.com says, "Lighting poles should be at a height of 120-130 feet above the main playing field for better propagation of light in the full stadium." Smaller edging lights make pathways to parking areas safer and attractive.