Colmar Stadium: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Your Guide to Colmar’s Historical Sites
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: Colmar Stadium’s Place in Alsace’s Heritage
In the heart of Alsace, France, Colmar Stadium is a modern venue deeply interwoven with the city’s sporting traditions and community spirit. From its early beginnings as the Stade des Francs in 1928, the stadium has reflected Colmar’s enduring passion for football and its role as a gathering place for generations. Today, Colmar Stadium serves not only as the home of SR Colmar football club but also as a hub for local events, youth development, and cultural exchange.
With its strategic location near Colmar’s old town and renowned attractions, including the Unterlinden Museum and the Petite Venise district, the stadium offers both locals and visitors the unique opportunity to combine sporting excitement with cultural exploration. This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, stadium features, and tips for making the most of your trip to Colmar.
For the most current visitor information and event schedules, always consult the official SR Colmar website and Colmar Tourist Office.
Contents
- Colmar Stadium: A Community Hub
- Historical Evolution: From Stade des Francs to Today
- Visiting Hours and Tickets: What to Know
- Stadium Facilities and Accessibility
- Architectural Highlights
- SR Colmar and Community Life
- Integrating Your Visit: Nearby Attractions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Planning Your Visit: Final Tips
- Official Sources and Further Reading
Colmar Stadium: A Community Hub
Colmar Stadium, located in northeastern Colmar, stands as a symbol of local pride and community engagement. It is far more than a football venue—it is a space where history, regional identity, athletic development, and culture converge. The stadium brings together fans, families, and visitors for matches, tournaments, and community events, reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant center for both sport and social life (SR Colmar Official Website, EverybodyWiki - Colmar Stadium).
Historical Evolution: From Stade des Francs to Today
Early Beginnings
Colmar’s football tradition began with the Stade des Francs, established in 1928 on land leased by the local club. Constructed with the help of community volunteers, the stadium became the home of SR Colmar and witnessed significant milestones—including a record crowd of 11,990 during the city’s only Division 1 season in 1948–49 (Wikipedia - Stade des Francs).
Wartime and Postwar Changes
During WWII, the stadium was renamed “Frankenweg Stadion” under German control. Postwar, it temporarily became “Stade Joseph Lehmann,” honoring a former club president. Over time, the original venue struggled to meet modern standards, prompting the city to invest in a new facility.
The Modern Stadium
Colmar Stadium opened in 2001 and was inaugurated in 2003, designed to accommodate both professional football and community activities. With contemporary amenities and a spectator-focused layout, it has become the heart of Colmar’s sports scene, hosting SR Colmar matches, youth fixtures, and cultural events (Football Tripper).
Visiting Hours and Tickets: What to Know
Visiting Hours
Colmar Stadium is open to the public during scheduled events, primarily SR Colmar home matches and special occasions. Gates typically open 1–2 hours before kickoff. For non-event days or to arrange special tours, contact the stadium administration or check the SR Colmar website.
Ticket Information
Tickets for matches and events can be purchased:
- Online: Through the SR Colmar official website.
- Box Office: At the stadium on match days.
Ticket prices generally range from €8 to €20, with discounts for youth, seniors, and groups. Early purchase is recommended for high-demand fixtures, such as French Cup games (france-voyage.com).
Special Events and Tours
Guided tours are not routinely available but may be arranged during festivals or by request. The stadium also hosts community, athletic, and cultural events throughout the year.
Stadium Facilities and Accessibility
Colmar Stadium is designed for comfort, safety, and inclusivity:
- Seating: Around 2,500 covered seats (main stands), with a total capacity of up to 7,000 including standing terraces. Forty seats are reserved for spectators with disabilities (EverybodyWiki - Colmar Stadium).
- Accessibility: Ramps, accessible entrances, and restrooms. Parking spaces are available for visitors with disabilities.
- Amenities: Restrooms, concession stands with local snacks, merchandise kiosks, and press/VIP areas.
- Transport: The stadium is a 15-minute walk from the Colmar train station and accessible by local buses, taxis, or car. Ample parking is available, but arriving early is advised (cityorcity.com).
- Security: Bag checks are standard; large items may be restricted.
Architectural Highlights
The stadium’s design emphasizes visibility, accessibility, and integration with its natural setting along the Canal de la Lauch. The main pitch features natural grass, with additional synthetic and training fields supporting youth and community programs. Durable materials ensure safety and longevity, while recent renovations have improved press and VIP areas (Football Tripper).
SR Colmar and Community Life
SR Colmar (Stadium Racing Colmar), founded in 1920 and rebranded in 2016, is a leading football club in Alsace with more than 600 licensed players across male and female teams (LinkedIn - Stadium Racing Colmar). The club’s commitment to youth development, inclusivity, and gender equality is reflected in its extensive programs, partnerships with educational organizations, and robust volunteer involvement.
Football matches at Colmar Stadium regularly draw large crowds, fostering social cohesion and serving as “social glue” for the community (GkSports - Community Impact). The stadium’s role as a local economic engine is supported by partnerships with businesses and ongoing infrastructural investments, including planned expansions (EverybodyWiki - Colmar Stadium).
Integrating Your Visit: Nearby Attractions
Colmar Stadium is ideally placed for combining a match or event with sightseeing:
- Old Town: Explore cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses.
- Unterlinden Museum: Renowned for the Isenheim Altarpiece.
- Petite Venise: Picturesque canals and vibrant atmosphere.
- Seasonal Festivals: Colmar Wine Fair (August), International Classical Music Festival (July), and Christmas markets.
The stadium often participates in city-wide cultural events, enriching the visitor experience (Colmar Tourist Office, france-voyage.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Colmar Stadium’s visiting hours?
A: The stadium is open during scheduled events; gates open 1–2 hours prior. Check the SR Colmar website for details.
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Via SR Colmar’s website or at the stadium box office on match days.
Q: Is the stadium accessible?
A: Yes; the stadium features ramps, reserved seating, accessible restrooms, and parking.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours are not routine but may be arranged during festivals or by appointment.
Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: The old town, Unterlinden Museum, Petite Venise, and seasonal festivals.
Planning Your Visit: Final Tips
- Arrive Early: For parking and the best seats.
- Dress for the Weather: The stadium is open-air; check forecasts and layer up.
- Use Public Transport: Buses and trains are reliable; walking from the center is scenic.
- Explore Local Cuisine: Sample Alsatian specialties before or after events.
- Stay Connected: Download the Audiala app for real-time updates and exclusive content.
Official Sources and Further Reading
- SR Colmar Official Website
- Colmar Tourist Office
- Wikipedia - Stade des Francs
- Football Tripper - Colmar Stadium
- LinkedIn - Stadium Racing Colmar
- EverybodyWiki - Colmar Stadium
- cityorcity.com - Colmar Travel Tips
- france-voyage.com - Colmar Tourism
- GkSports - Community Impact