Today the Arena is the largest and most important monument in Pula, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, due to its historical and cultural importance and the various events it hosts.
Once a venue for gladiator games, a venue for lyrical performances during the Italian administration between the two world wars, it has hosted a film festival since 1953. Initially, the Yugoslav Film Festival, known as the Pula Film Festival since 1992, is held every year, showing films made in domestic and foreign production. In addition to the film festival, the Arena hosts numerous concerts and other events every year that attract a diverse audience; from sports such as ice hockey to cultural events such as famous opera performances. The Arena also opens its doors to the local population, hosting children's carnival processions and some of the Advent events.
