In 2015, events held in the San Diego Convention Center (SDCC) are expected to reach $1 billion in regional impact, generating over $600 million in direct attendee spending and total tax revenues surpassing $21 million.
There are currently 107 events forecast to be held in the center with more expected to book in upcoming months. Of these events, 66 are primary events and are expected to attract over half a million out-of-town attendees. Total expected attendance is estimated at 849,950 with current figures expected to increase over the year. This marks the center’s highest attendance since 2008 when its doors welcomed 951,618 attendees.
SDCC is celebrating its 25th anniversary of operations this year after opening in November 1989. The Phase II expansion was completed in 2001. Since opening, the center has generated more than $450 million in tax revenues to the City of San Diego to help fund parks, public safety, libraries and other city services.
The forecast identifies 16 medical meetings in 2015 which are projected to generate $421.7 million in regional impact and draw a record in attendance. Over 161,000 will attend medical meetings at the center and will provide a record $8.6 million in tax revenues for the San Diego region.
Some of the major medical shows convening at SDCC include the American College of Cardiology, American Society of Anesthesiologists, American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, American Society of Microbiology and the American Society of Nephrology. The forecast provides a detailed list of all major meetings at the facility in 2015 including medical meetings.
San Diego remains a top meeting and convention destination because it offers a world-class facility surrounded by more than 11,000 high-quality hotel rooms within the downtown area. The Gaslamp Quarter provides attendees a meeting destination that is walkable and offers a wide assortment of restaurants, nightlife and shops to visit following their meetings. The convention center’s close proximity to the San Diego International Airport and wide assortment of family-friendly attractions are also a draw for many visitors considering attending an event in San Diego.
