Your Golden Ticket to Nonstop Entertainment:

ATHENS, GA – November 3, 2025— Akins Ford Arena is marking its first anniversary with a golden opportunity: a chance to win an unforgettable year of entertainment.

The grand prize winner will receive two tickets to every public event in Akins Ford Arena for an entire year. In addition to the two tickets to every event in Akins Ford Arena, the grand prize winner will also receive two passes to the exclusive South Club Lounge, offering an enhanced experience for every show.

Plus, one lucky runner-up will win two tickets to every public event at The Classic Center Theatre throughout the year.

"Winning the Golden Ticket to the Akins Ford Arena is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me,” said Fe H., Akins Ford Arena’s 2025 Golden Ticket Winner. “From country music to comedy to Disney, ice hockey, and so much more, I am amazed at the quality and quantity of entertainment it has brought to the Athens area. Love it, love it, love it!"

Don’t wait, entries for the Golden Ticket Sweepstakes close on December 4, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. This is your chance to experience an extraordinary year powered by entertainment! Open to residents of Georgia and South Carolina who are 18 years of age or older. No purchase or payment is required to enter or win.

For a full list of official rules and details about the Golden Ticket Sweepstakes, visit ClassicCenter.com.

“The inaugural year of Akins Ford Arena has been nothing short of amazing,” said Paul Cramer, President and CEO of The Classic Center Authority. “It’s been incredible to see our community and visitors from all over come together for hockey, sold-out concerts, and unforgettable comedy with top comedians. This year exceeded all expectations, and with even bigger shows on the horizon, the excitement for next year is already building!”

Events that have already been announced for 2026 include:

• Akins Ford Arena
  • Athens Rock Lobsters hockey
  • UGA Club Hockey
  • Billy Strings- Winter Tour 2026
  • Bailey Zimmerman- Different Night Same Rodeo Tour 2026
  • Harlem Globetrotters
  • …and more shows are set to announce soon!
• The Classic Center Theatre
  • Jason Isbell- Solo Tour 2026
  • Hadestown
  • Riverdance 30: The New Generatin
  • John Mulaney: Mister Whatever Tour
  • Stomp
  • Clint Black- Back on The Blacktop Tour
  • Swan Lake by Internatinal Ballet Stars
  • Athens Symphony: Spring Concert
  • Mrs. Doubtfire
  • An Evening with David Sedarius
  • Ballets Jazz Mntreal
  • Beetlejuice
  • …and more shows are set to announce soon!

 

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About Akins Ford Arena

Located in Athens, Georgia, Akins Ford Arena enhances the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens by providing an exceptional venue for both local and visiting guests. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, concerts, family shows, and sports tournaments, accommodating over 8,000 fans. Part of The Classic Center Authority, Akins Ford Arena is driven by entertainment and is dedicated to providing top-tier entertainment and unparalleled experience for all.

 

About The Classic Center

Located in Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center is a premier multi-use conference center, performing arts theatre, and covered outdoor pavilion. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, conferences, meetings, weddings, concerts, sporting tournaments, and special events.  Our newly opened Akins Ford Arena further enhances our ability to bolster the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens, offering expanded event capabilities and accommodating over 8,000 attendees.