New Year’s Eve is not the only reason to throw a party in Niagara. The Scotiabank Convention Center in Niagara Falls (SCCN), marks this April, the passing of its first successful year since opening its doors to the region and the world.
“It feels just like yesterday, when we first opened our doors to the public,” said Kerry Painter, SCCN president and general manager, who joined the Scotiabank Convention Center in early 2008, has been instrumental in the timely construction and successful launch of the $100 Million facility.
Over the course of one year, Niagara’s largest meetings and events facility has lived up to everyone’s expectations, welcoming over 250,000 visitors, who have come to the state-of-the-art facility for a wide range of events, including: public consumer shows, tradeshows, theatrical performances, corporate meetings & conferences, and special events. One of the many highlights in its first year includes playing host to the Ontario PC Party during election night and for their Annual General Meeting.
“We are proud to say that since last April 2011 we have held 118 successful events, amounting to over 267 days of activity at the Center,” said Painter. “Many of our extremely satisfied customers were overwhelmed at the success of their events and have signed on to return.”
“Since its grand opening, the Scotiabank Convention Center has created a significant economic impact, with an estimated $7.7 million in its first year,” said Jim Diodati, Niagara Falls Mayor. “The Center brings a dynamic piece to the vibrancy of our city and the region. Now more than ever, we are able to welcome guests and visitors 365 days of the year—we are truly a four-season destination.”
To mark its first birthday, the Scotiabank Convention Center will ‘Celebrate1’ by holding a month-long series of private and public events. The local community will once again be invited to join the celebrations by visiting the Scotiabank Convention Center on Sunday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the Greater Niagara Region Home & Garden Show weekend. Visitors will be able to enjoy one dollar items, including parking, hot dogs, drinks and cake.
“The convention center has redefined the hospitality and tourism landscape here in Niagara,” said Wayne Thomson, SCCN Chairman of the Board. “This past year has truly been a ground-breaking period by the addition of events and activities that, prior to the Center’s arrival, could not be realized in the region.”
