Las Vegas Bids Farewell to Cashman Field as Lights FC Plays Final Match
After more than four decades as a cornerstone of local sports and community events, Cashman Field hosted its final athletic contest on Saturday night, bringing an end to a landmark era in Las Vegas history. The stadium’s swan song featured the Las Vegas Lights FC falling 5-3 to Lexington SC, drawing crowds of fans who gathered to say goodbye to the facility before its scheduled demolition.
While the final score marked a loss on the pitch, supporters packed the stands to honor the memories forged at the venue since it opened in 1983. City officials noted that a definitive demolition date remains pending until the property sale is finalized, which is expected to occur by the end of the year.
Decades of Sports History from Baseball to Soccer
The site’s athletic roots trace back to 1947 when Elks Stadium originally occupied the location, before the modern Cashman Field opened in 1983. The venue served for years as the home of the Las Vegas Stars and later the Las Vegas 51s, before transitioning into a professional soccer venue when the Las Vegas Lights FC began playing there in 2018.
Adiós Cashman Field.Home of the Stars, the 51s, and the Lights.The 43-year-old stadium in Downtown Las Vegas hosted its last game tonight.It will soon be demolished and turned into townhomes, or something. pic.twitter.com/7cd6Mi2cJE
Longtime attendees recalled decades of attending baseball games, concerts, and community gatherings at the complex. “I’ve been coming here since I was like 6 for the 51s games, lowrider shows and all the other games that they’ve had here,” Yvette Ramirez said, describing her return to the stadium with her own family as a full-circle moment.
Fans Share Bittersweet Memories at the Final Tailgate
Outside the stadium, supporters gathered for one last tailgate party, balancing sadness over the closure with optimism for the soccer team’s future in the valley. Season ticket holder Adam said that the atmosphere felt bittersweet because it was the last game at the venue, but sweet in anticipation of the team finding a new home.
Other visitors highlighted the personal connections built within the stadium’s walls over the years. Jose Volonte said that the location meant much more than just a sports venue because it was where he met his wife and took her on their first date, noting that visitors often became like family.
Redevelopment Plans and the Future of Las Vegas Lights FC
Cashman Field is expected to be demolished to make way for a housing development, bringing an end to one of the city’s longstanding sports landmarks. Team supporters, however, intend to follow the Lights wherever they relocate.
“Wherever we move to, whenever that’s announced, please come out and support,” Adam said regarding the franchise’s next steps.