The Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion at Baylor University opened in January 2024 as the home of the Baylor men’s and women’s basketball programs. Constructed at a cost of $212.6 million, the 223,547-square-foot arena offers unprecedented event sightlines, convenient parking, tasty food and drink options, and comfortable seating
Situated along the banks of the Brazos River and anchoring a significant downtown redevelopment, the Pavilion became available for external bookings in November 2024.
While the Pavilion accommodates 7,500 fans for basketball, seating capacity is listed at 5,928 for most concert events.
Under Baylor’s agreement with the City of Waco, which contributed financially to the construction of the Pavilion, the University will host at least 10 “performance” events at Foster Pavilion over the next two years, which are described as ticketed entertainment events that are open to the public in the areas of music, theater, comedy or non-Baylor sports competitions. Baylor also is required to host at least 10 “university events” annually that are described as University-produced fine arts shows, performances or other events for the benefit of Baylor students and/or alumni as well as the Waco community.
In addition to these economic and entertainment benefits developed by Baylor, the City of Waco receives at least 25 days per year to host “community events” at Foster Pavilion. These events may be held in conjunction with the city, McLennan County, McLennan Community College, Greater Waco Sports Commission or local school districts and may include graduations, student fine arts performances or athletics-related competitions or other events.