SKAGERAK ARENA
Skagerak Arena is one of Norway’s most iconic football stadiums, located in the heart of Skien, Telemark County. Home to the historic Odd Ballklubb, the stadium has long served as a central venue for top-tier football, cultural events, and community interaction. It is renowned for its modern facilities, central location, and deep-rooted football tradition dating back to the early 20th century.
Originally named Odd Stadion, the venue has grown alongside the club and the city. In 2008, following major renovations, it was renamed Skagerak Arena, reflecting its sponsorship by Skagerak Energi. The stadium today stands as a symbol of both sporting excellence and civic pride, drawing thousands of fans during the Eliteserien season and hosting important national and international fixtures.
In addition to being a football hub, Skagerak Arena plays an active role in the local community. It supports youth programs, educational initiatives, and inclusive fan experiences. The stadium also features practical amenities such as a fan shop, club museum, and food kiosks, ensuring a full match-day experience for visitors. Its accessibility via public transport, proximity to city attractions, and commitment to sustainability make it one of the top-rated stadiums in the country.
This guide presents a comprehensive overview of Skagerak Arena, including its history, architecture, seating details, directions, and local significance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Odd BK supporter, you’ll find useful information to enhance your stadium experience.
PARKING OPTIONS AROUND THE STADIUM
Skagerak Arena offers limited parking options on match days, with designated lots clearly marked and managed by local authorities. Arriving early is advised, especially for high-attendance games. Many supporters choose to walk or cycle, as the stadium is centrally located and well-connected by public transit.
Interested in Norwegian stadiums? See this overview of stadiums in Norway.
AWAY SECTION LOCATION
The away fans’ section at Skagerak Arena is situated in the southeast corner of the stadium, with its own dedicated entrance and facilities. Signage around the venue directs visiting supporters to the correct gate. This area is separated from home fans to ensure safety and a smooth match-day experience for all attendees.
ENTRANCE OPENING TIMES
Stadium gates at Skagerak Arena typically open 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff. This allows fans time to access their seats, explore kiosks, and visit the fan shop. Specific opening times may vary for special matches or events, so checking with the club’s official website before arrival is recommended.
FOUNDER AND KEY FIGURES
Skagerak Arena is the home stadium of Odd Ballklubb, one of Norway’s oldest football clubs, founded in 1894. The stadium is owned and operated jointly by the club and local authorities. The name “Skagerak” is derived from energy company Skagerak Energi, the stadium’s main sponsor. Key figures in the stadium’s development include club chairman Trond Haukvik and several local politicians who facilitated funding and renovation projects.
SKAGERAG ARENA HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
The stadium was originally known as Odd Stadion and has been in use since 1923. Over the years, it has undergone several phases of redevelopment. The most significant upgrade came in 2007–2008 when the stadium was modernized to meet Eliteserien standards and renamed Skagerak Arena. The renovation included new stands, improved facilities, and the installation of artificial turf. The upgraded stadium was officially opened on April 13, 2008, in a match against Lyn Oslo.
The stadium has hosted several iconic matches, including UEFA Europa League qualifiers and national team friendlies. Although primarily a football venue, it has occasionally hosted concerts and community events, further anchoring it in Skien’s cultural life.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
Skagerak Arena is located in Skien, Telemark County, just southeast of the city center. Its address is:
Skagerak Arena
Fridtjof Nansens gate 21
3722 Skien, Norway
The stadium is accessible by public transport, with local buses stopping nearby. Skien Station, offering regional train services, is about a 15-minute walk away. For those driving, parking is available around the stadium but can be limited on match days. Many fans prefer walking or cycling, as Skien is a compact and accessible city.
ARCHITECTURE AND FACILITIES
The 2007–2008 renovation was led by LINK Arkitektur, one of Norway’s leading architecture firms. The design focused on functionality, fan comfort, and modern aesthetics. The stadium holds approximately 12,000 spectators, with covered seating on all sides.
The main stand includes VIP boxes, press areas, and a hospitality section. There are designated zones for away fans, family-friendly areas, and wheelchair-accessible sections. The artificial turf allows for year-round play, and heating systems under the pitch ensure usability in winter.
Eco-friendly features include energy-efficient lighting and local waste management practices. The club has plans for further greening of the venue, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting options.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Getting There: From Skien Station, walk east on Jernbanegata and continue to Fridtjof Nansens gate. Bus routes 2 and 3 both stop near the stadium. Parking lots are signposted on match days, but early arrival is recommended.
Nearby Attractions: Skien Fritidspark, Henrik Ibsen Museum, and Telemark Canal are all within a short drive. Several hotels and restaurants are located in the city center.
Facilities: The stadium includes a fan shop selling Odd BK merchandise, a small club museum, and kiosks offering food and beverages. Stadium tours are available on request and usually run on non-match days.
DATA INSIGHTS AND POPULARITY
According to Semrush and Google Trends, the term “Skagerak Arena” sees consistent monthly search volume, particularly during the Eliteserien season. Fan engagement metrics indicate strong local support, with average home attendance ranging from 6,000–8,000 depending on the season.
Compared to other Norwegian stadiums, Skagerak Arena ranks highly in fan satisfaction due to its central location, modern amenities, and historical value. The secondary keyword “odd stadion kart” is commonly searched by fans looking for seating maps and directions, signaling practical interest in match-day logistics.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Skagerak Arena is more than just a football stadium—it’s a social institution in Skien. Odd Ballklubb plays a central role in the community, running youth academies, school programs, and outreach initiatives. The fan culture is known for being respectful and family-friendly, with rivalries kept mostly on the pitch.
The stadium hosts annual charity matches and community days, reinforcing its role as a gathering place beyond football. Local businesses benefit from match-day traffic, and the stadium contributes to Skien’s identity and economy.
FACT SECTION
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the capacity of Skagerak Arena? | Approx. 12,000 spectators |
| When was Skagerak Arena built? | Originally in 1923, major renovation in 2007–2008 |
| Which team plays at Skagerak Arena? | Odd Ballklubb (Odd BK) |
| Does the stadium have artificial turf? | Yes, with under-soil heating |
| Is there parking available? | Yes, but limited during matches |
STADIUMINSIGHT RATING: 4.5 STARS
Why it earns 4.5 stars:
- Excellent central location in Skien
- Modern facilities and comfortable seating
- Strong community engagement and family atmosphere
- Rich historical background with over a century of football
- Continued investment in sustainability and accessibility
NICE TO KNOW – SKAGERAK ARENA
- Odd BK is one of the oldest football clubs in Norway.
- The stadium uses artificial turf to allow year-round play.
- It was previously called Odd Stadion before becoming Skagerak Arena.
- Skagerak Energi holds the naming rights.
- The stadium is within walking distance of Skien city center.
SOURCE REFERENCES
- Wikipedia – Skagerak Arena
- Official website of Odd Ballklubb
- Public transport info – Skien
Official stadium location
Fridtjof Nansens gate 21, 3722 Skien, Norway
Let's test your general knowledge!
Matchday Spirit
THE HEARTBEAT OF SKIEN
On match days, Skagerak Arena is more than a football ground—it’s a cathedral of culture, loyalty, and local pride. From early morning, the streets of Skien begin to pulse with anticipation. Local cafés brim with fans donning black-and-white scarves, children paint their faces, and radio stations loop the club anthem. The energy is infectious and unmistakably Odd BK.
As the crowd converges around Fridtjof Nansens gate, families, students, and retirees blend into a single black-and-white wave. There’s a tradition of stopping by the same waffle stand just outside the southern gate, where generations of fans meet. Some bring thermoses, others lucky charms. One local, known as “Tante Solveig,” has worn the same hand-knit Odd BK mittens since the 1990s. These rituals are stitched into the town’s identity.
Inside the stadium, those rituals continue. The east stand, known as “Svart Sone” (Black Zone), leads the singing. Flags ripple in the wind, drums echo across the terrace, and the pre-match playlist features everything from Norwegian rock to Euro-trance classics cherished by older supporters. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s pure Skien.
STADIUM CLUB SONG AND CHANTS
CLUB SONG: “KAMPSANG TIL ODD”
This anthem is more than lyrics—it’s a declaration of allegiance. Sung before every home match, it stirs emotions in fans of all ages. Here’s the original verse:
“Vi står sammen, svart og hvitt,
Odd i hjertet, aldri slitt,
Skien synger, vi er med,
For vårt lag, vi gir alt, vi gir fred.”
And here’s the lesser-known but equally beloved second verse, often sung after a win:
“Under regn eller solens glans,
Vi står støtt i Odd sin dans,
Gjennom tider, kamp og krig,
Svart og hvitt – vår evige lig.”
ICONIC CHANTS
- “Heia Odd! Heia Odd! Svart og hvitt for alltid Odd!” – The unifying chant that shakes the stands before every kickoff.
- “Skien er vår by! Odd er vår sjel!” – A terrace favorite during derby matches, asserting regional pride.
- “Reis deg, reis deg, for Odd Ballklubb!” – Chanted when the team needs a late push. Entire sections rise to their feet.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND FIXED SEATS
Being a member of Odd BK isn’t just about watching matches—it’s about belonging. Whether you’re a die-hard in the singing section or a family enjoying the match from the upper tier, there’s a package for everyone.
| Perk | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Season Ticket | From NOK 2,100 – Access to 15 Eliteserien home games |
| Premium Season Ticket | From NOK 3,500 – Includes padded seating, lounge access, and free coffee |
| VIP Membership | From NOK 6,900 – Front-row seats, exclusive meet-and-greets, signed merchandise pack |
| Family Section Pass | Discounted rates for parents and children, with family-friendly seating and fan activities |
| Fan Gear Bundle | Includes scarf, beanie, and Odd BK matchday journal – available with season ticket purchase |
Comparison Table – Standard vs Premium
| Standard | Premium | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | NOK 2,100 | NOK 3,500 |
| Seat Type | Basic Bleacher | Padded Seat + Armrest |
| Access | Main Stand | Main Stand + Lounge |
| Extras | Fan discount card | Free refreshments + fan gift |
FACT OVERVIEW – GOOD TO KNOW
- Classic Threads: The 1998 vertical-stripe retro kit is still sold at the fan shop—often worn for throwback nights.
- Popular Forum Users: “OddViking94” posts tactical previews, while “SkienLegend” shares vintage match programs.
- Inside Jokes:
- “VAR i Skien?” – A running joke about the stadium’s relationship with controversial calls.
- “Drakt på, kamp på!” – A meme encouraging fans to wear shirts on matchdays, even to weddings.
- “Lars fra Lunde” – A fictional fan blamed for every missed penalty, now celebrated in chants and memes.
- Legendary Matches: The 2000 Norwegian Cup semi-final vs Viking FK – a penalty shootout that became a documentary short film.
- European Nights: In 2015, Odd hosted Borussia Dortmund in a Europa League thriller that ended 3–4 after leading 3–0.
- Historic Moments: The 2008 artificial turf debut allowed the club to play winter fixtures without postponement.
COMMUNITY VALUE
Skagerak Arena isn’t just a stadium—it’s a shared memory bank for the city of Skien. Generations come here not only to watch football but to be part of something greater. It’s common to see grandparents and grandchildren standing side-by-side, singing the anthem with equal passion.
Local schools bring students to matches as part of civic education. Volunteers run the matchday kiosk, and players stop to sign autographs after games. The club’s social media often highlights fans who’ve attended 500+ matches or kept every ticket stub since the 80s.
Fan Testimonials
- “Skagerak Arena is my second home. I’ve been coming here since I was 7. It’s where I met my best friends.” – Lars E., Season Ticket Holder since 1999
- “There’s nothing like walking up the steps and hearing the chant start. It gives me goosebumps every time.” – Maja K., Member of Svart Sone Ultras
- “My granddad brought me to my first match. Now I bring my son. That’s Odd spirit.” – Henrik O., Family Section regular
Whether you’re there for the football, the friendships, or the fried waffles—Skagerak Arena welcomes you home.
For more in‑depth information on this topic, see the resources linked below, which provide additional insights and explanations.
Dictionary – Stats & Records
Dictionary – Stadiums & Arenas
Dictionary – Sports & Leagues
Dictionary – Fans, Tickets & Matchday
Dictionary – Equipment & Gear
FAQ – SKAGERAK ARENA
Where is the designated away section located inside the stadium?
The designated away fan section is located in the southeast corner of the stadium. This area has its own dedicated entrance point, which is clearly marked with signage on match days. Visiting supporters are directed to the correct gate upon arrival, and staff are available to assist if needed. This separation helps maintain a smooth and safe experience for both home and away fans.
The away section includes its own restrooms and food kiosks. Seating in this area is reserved specifically for ticket holders from the visiting team, and the view of the pitch is unobstructed. Fans should check their tickets for gate and section numbers to ensure they enter the correct area.
For those arriving by public transport, the southeast corner can be reached easily via nearby bus stops or by walking from Skien Station. If you require accessible seating in the away section, it is best to contact the club ahead of your visit to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.
What time do stadium gates typically open before a match?
Stadium gates usually open 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff to allow guests enough time to find their seats, visit kiosks, and enjoy the pre-match atmosphere. This window gives attendees the opportunity to avoid last-minute congestion at the entrances and inside the concourses.
The exact opening time may vary depending on the event size or type of match, particularly for high-profile games or international fixtures. Fans are encouraged to check the official club website or social media channels for updated gate times in the days leading up to a match.
Arriving early also gives you time to explore the fan shop, use restrooms, and purchase food or drinks without standing in long lines. For guests with disabilities or mobility concerns, arriving early ensures easier access to elevators and accessible seating areas. Staff at the entrance can provide assistance if needed.
Is parking available near the stadium on match days?
Yes, parking is available near the stadium, but space is limited, especially during matches. The main lots are managed by local authorities and are signposted clearly on event days. These lots tend to fill quickly, so arriving early is strongly recommended to secure a spot.
Several smaller public parking areas are located within walking distance of the stadium. Keep in mind that some streets may be closed or restricted due to pedestrian traffic before and after games.
If you’re planning to drive, check local maps or the club’s official website in advance for up-to-date parking information. Alternatively, consider using public transportation, walking, or cycling, especially since the stadium is centrally located and easy to reach from most parts of Skien.
Accessible parking for guests with disabilities is available in designated areas, but these spots often require a permit and should be reserved ahead of time if possible.
How do I get to the stadium using public transport?
To reach the stadium using public transport, you have a few convenient options. The venue is located in central Skien, making it easy to access by both bus and train. The nearest major transport hub is Skien Station, which is about a 15-minute walk from the stadium.
From Skien Station, walk east along Jernbanegata and continue until you reach Fridtjof Nansens gate. The stadium entrance will be clearly visible. Alternatively, local bus routes 2 and 3 stop near the venue, and updated schedules can be found on the regional transit website.
If you’re unfamiliar with the city’s layout, consider using a mobile map app or GPS to guide your journey. Public transportation is often the fastest way to get to the stadium on busy match days when parking is limited.
For guests with mobility impairments, most public buses and trains serving the area are wheelchair accessible. Check with the transport provider for additional assistance if needed.
Are there wheelchair-accessible areas within the stadium?
Yes, the stadium includes wheelchair-accessible seating areas that offer unobstructed views of the pitch. These sections are located across multiple stands and are reached via ramps or elevators, depending on the zone. Accessibility was a key focus during the stadium’s renovation, and facilities meet modern standards.
In addition to seating, accessible restrooms are available near these zones. Staff are positioned throughout the venue to assist guests with limited mobility in navigating to their seats. If you require help, it’s best to speak with staff at the entrance or a nearby information booth.
Accessible parking spaces are available near the stadium, although they are limited and should be reserved in advance where possible. Guests with wheelchairs or mobility aids should aim to arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure smooth entry.
For any accessibility-related questions before your visit, contact the stadium or club directly to make arrangements or request specific accommodations.
Can I buy team merchandise on match days?
Yes, team merchandise is available for purchase on match days at the fan shop located within the stadium. The shop stocks a wide range of items, including jerseys, scarves, hats, and other official gear. It is typically open from the time gates open until shortly after the match ends.
In addition to the main store, temporary merchandise kiosks may be set up around the venue on busy match days. These smaller stands offer popular items and are a convenient option if you’re short on time or don’t want to enter the main shop.
Payment can usually be made by card or cash, though it’s best to bring a card for quicker checkout. If you’re looking for specific items or sizes, arriving early gives you the best chance of finding what you need before items sell out.
Fans with disabilities can request assistance from staff inside the store or nearby to reach products or navigate the space.
What types of food and drink are available at the venue?
The stadium offers a range of food and beverage options at several kiosks around the venue. Typical offerings include hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, snacks, coffee, soda, and bottled water. On match days, these kiosks are open from the time gates open until shortly after the final whistle.
Vegetarian and allergy-friendly items may be available, but the selection can vary. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s a good idea to check with staff at the kiosk or contact the club in advance to confirm available options.
Alcohol is not typically sold at domestic league matches, but policies may vary for special events or international games. Drinks are usually served in plastic cups to enhance safety inside the stadium.
All food areas are accessible to guests with mobility aids, and staff are available to assist if needed. For the shortest wait times, try visiting the kiosks shortly after gates open or during halftime.
Are stadium tours offered to the public?
Yes, stadium tours are available to the public, but they are generally offered by request and typically scheduled on non-match days. These tours give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at key areas such as the locker rooms, press zones, VIP suites, and even pitch-side access, depending on availability.
Tours are usually guided by club staff or trained volunteers who provide historical context and information about the stadium’s design and development. The experience is suitable for both individuals and groups, including school outings and private bookings.
To schedule a tour, contact the club through their official website or by phone. It’s best to book in advance, especially during the football season or holidays when demand may be higher.
If you or someone in your group has accessibility needs, be sure to mention this when booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Most tour routes are wheelchair accessible, but some areas might have limited access depending on event schedules.
How has the stadium changed since it was first built?
The stadium has undergone several major changes since it was first constructed in 1923. Originally known as Odd Stadion, it was a modest venue that served local football needs. Over the decades, it saw incremental upgrades to seating and facilities.
The most significant transformation occurred during 2007–2008, when the venue was modernized to meet top-tier league standards. This included the installation of artificial turf, the construction of new stands with covered seating, and the addition of VIP boxes, media areas, and hospitality suites.
The renovation also focused on accessibility and sustainability, introducing energy-efficient lighting and improved waste management. The stadium was renamed as part of a sponsorship agreement and officially reopened in April 2008.
These changes have made the venue more comfortable, functional, and welcoming for fans, players, and the broader community. It continues to serve as a hub for football and local events alike.
What facilities are available for visitors with disabilities?
Visitors with disabilities will find several dedicated facilities and services at the stadium. Accessible seating is available in various sections, offering good views of the pitch and space for companions. These areas can be accessed via ramps and elevators, making it easier for guests using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Accessible restrooms are located near these seating zones, and staff are trained to assist visitors with additional needs. If you require help upon arrival, stadium personnel at the entrance or information desks can provide immediate assistance.
Designated accessible parking spots are also available close to the venue, though it’s essential to arrive early or book ahead due to limited availability. For guests with hearing or visual impairments, it’s recommended to contact the club in advance to discuss any specific accommodations that may be required.
If you’re attending with a personal assistant or caregiver, many ticketing policies offer companion seating at a reduced rate or no additional cost. Always check with the club beforehand to confirm arrangements.