Abbotsford Centre

In the heart of the picturesque Fraser Valley lies a modern sports and entertainment hub — Abbotsford Centre, which was recently renamed Rogers Forum. This 7,000-seat multi-purpose arena opened in 2009 in the city of Abbotsford and has since become the region's premier venue for large-scale events.

Today, Canada is proud of this high-tech arena, which serves as the home ice for the Abbotsford Canucks hockey team — the farm club of the famous Vancouver Canucks. The building stands out not only for its contemporary design but also for its impressive technical features, including advanced climate control and ventilation systems that ensure spectator comfort year-round.

In 2023, the complex underwent a major modernization. Visitors can now enjoy a brand-new high-resolution video board, upgraded seating, and improved infrastructure. Thanks to its versatility, the venue easily transforms from an ice rink into a concert hall, hosting world-class stars and major sporting tournaments, making it a must-visit for any fan of live action and entertainment.

To inquire about upcoming events or for rental information, you can contact the venue administration directly. The arena office is open on weekdays and is ready to assist visitors with any requests.

The main draw for visitors is, undoubtedly, the hockey matches. Watching the Abbotsford Canucks play is a fantastic way to experience authentic Canadian energy. The arena is designed so that almost every seat offers an excellent view, while wide aisles and comfortable seating allow you to focus entirely on the action. Be sure to check out the South Rise on the south side — a unique standing-room-only area with tables located right behind the net, where the intensity is at its peak.

If sports aren't your thing, the arena regularly transforms into a stage for spectacular concerts and shows. A modern four-sided video board and professional lighting systems create an incredible atmosphere during performances. Before the players or artists take the stage, the hall is bathed in striking blue and green lighting to set the mood.

Don't forget to have your smartphone ready: inside the arena, there's a giant goalie mask that has become an iconic photo spot. It's a great chance to capture a memorable moment in the heart of Abbotsford's sports scene. Additionally, during intermissions, you can grab a bite at local concession stands or catch professional basketball games by the Fraser Valley Bandits, who also call this court home.

The complex is conveniently located at 33800 King Rd, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Abbotsford is about an hour's drive southeast of Vancouver, right on the US border, so a trip here can be a great addition to any British Columbia itinerary.

The most convenient way to reach the venue is by private car or a taxi from the city center. Driving allows for flexible planning, especially given the spacious paid parking available right on-site. If you prefer a taxi, you can easily book one via popular mobile apps, and the trip from central districts won't take long.

While the region has a public transport network, bus routes may require transfers and take longer than a car ride. However, for those not planning to drive, buses remain an affordable alternative for reaching major transport hubs near the arena.

The history of this site began in September 2006, when the city council approved a referendum to fund major public projects. Residents showed strong civic engagement, and in November of that year, the majority voted in favor of allocating funds for a new entertainment center. The first stone of the future stadium was laid in the fall of 2007.

Since its opening in 2009, the arena served as the home of the Abbotsford Heat hockey club, affiliated with the Calgary Flames. However, due to the geographic distance from other league teams at the time, attendance remained moderate, and the club relocated in 2014. This was followed by a brief lull in professional hockey, which ended with the triumphant return of the game to the region.

A landmark event occurred in 2021: the Vancouver Canucks moved their farm team to Abbotsford, breathing new life into the arena. More recently, on November 13, 2025, the venue was renamed Rogers Forum, marking a new chapter in its development as the province's leading sports facility.

When planning your visit to the Abbotsford Centre (now Rogers Forum), you should primarily check the schedule of your specific event. If you're attending a thrilling hockey match, it's best to set aside 3 to 4 hours for your visit. This is enough time to arrive comfortably, pass through security, find your seats, and enjoy the game including all intermissions.

For concerts or other shows, the duration of the visit may vary, but it typically fits within the same timeframe. If you want to have time to take photos with local landmarks inside the arena or grab a snack at the food court before the program starts, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before the official start time.

The venue's administrative office operates on a standard schedule, which is convenient for organizational matters or purchasing tickets in person at the box office. Please note the following hours:

• Monday — Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: Closed

It is important to remember that on match days, concerts, and other entertainment shows, the door opening times for spectators are set individually. Typically, the arena opens to the public 1–1.5 hours before the start of the scheduled event.

After catching an exciting match or concert, you'll likely want to grab a bite or take a short walk. The area surrounding the arena offers several great options for relaxation, from popular steakhouses to cozy local breweries.

Exploring the neighborhood will help you get a better feel for the city's atmosphere and enjoy British Columbia's hospitality. Below is a list of nearby spots that may interest tourists: