CINCINNATI, OH (For Immediate Release) – The Duke Energy Convention Center (DECC) is undergoing an innovative transformation starting on July 1, 2024. The new center will have state-of-the-art facilities and enhanced experiences, and it signals the beginning stages of the reinvention of downtown Cincinnati’s convention district.
The DECC work is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025, and Visit Cincy is booking business for 2026 and beyond.
"The reimagined Duke Energy Convention Center will be a game-changer, providing a modern, dynamic space that meets the evolving needs of event planners and attendees,” said Julie Calvert, President and CEO of Visit Cincy. “We are excited about the opportunities this transformation will bring and look forward to unveiling a venue that truly reflects the vibrant spirit of Cincinnati. We encourage event planners to secure their dates now and be among the first to experience our newly renovated space in 2026."
The center will feature energy-efficient exhibit and meeting space, renovated ballrooms, a sunlit pre-function area, outdoor event space, and a sprawling rooftop terrace.
While the DECC undergoes its transformation, alternative venues are ready to host events of all sizes. The recently expanded and renovated Sharonville Convention Center is an option for large-scale events. Additionally, Cincinnati offers numerous unique venues, from historic landmarks to contemporary spaces.
"Convention business will remain strong, despite the center being offline," Calvert continued. “Hotels, Sharonville Convention Center, and many other unique venues are in an all-in mode to be sure that the needs of all groups are met and exceeded to keep business following. Moreover, we are thrilled to offer the opportunity to book events in our state-of-the-art DECC for 2026 and beyond."
Complementing these efforts is the "Meetings Made Cincy" campaign, designed to highlight the benefits of hosting events in Cincinnati. This initiative showcases the region's facilities and unique experiences that make Cincinnati a top choice for meetings and conventions.
Click here to download renderings of the new Duke Energy Convention Center.
About Visit Cincy
Visit Cincy connects the Cincinnati region's people and experiences with visitors and meeting attendees from around the world through sales, marketing, communications, and community-building strategies. The destination marketing organization is supported by nearly 500 businesses that join together in making Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and the Cincy region a world-class destination by offering their services, attractions, and facilities to visitors, meeting planners, and convention attendees. For more information, go to VisitCincy.com.
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