Salem Civic Center

Established in 1967, the Salem Civic Center is the centerpiece of the James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex in Salem, Virginia. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the venue is nestled in a suburban neighborhood alongside the city’s major football and baseball stadiums. This long-standing regional landmark is known for its versatile arena space, which offers an energetic and welcoming environment for fans across the Roanoke Valley. The venue is a premier destination for touring entertainment, hosting everything from professional wrestling to major stand-up comedy tours. It has a rich history of bringing top-tier talent to Southwest Virginia, with past performances by notable comedians such as Shane Gillis, Rodney Carrington, and "Weird Al" Yankovic. The arena even gained unique pop-culture fame as a filming location for a memorable scene in the 2006 comedy film *Borat*, cementing its status as a versatile hub for live laughs.