Business Details
21 Years
experience
Premier Event Venue in Hartford
The Connecticut Convention Center is an award-winning venue owned by the State of Connecticut and managed by Waterford Venue Services. Opened in 2005, we provide state-of-the-art facilities for trade shows, conventions, and business meetings in a dramatic riverfront setting. Our 540,000-square-foot complex includes 140,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 40,000-square-foot ballroom, and 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.Our mission focuses on enhancing Hartford's economic vitality by promoting it as a premier destination for regional and national events. We combine advanced audio-visual technology, abundant pre-function areas, and on-site parking with exceptional event planning and catering services to create unforgettable experiences for clients.
Services
Event Planning
Catering Services
Exhibitor Support
Meeting Spaces
Wedding Venues
Audio-Visual Rentals
Parking Facilities
Tourism Promotion
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We are the largest convention facility between New York and Boston
- Our 540,000-square-foot complex features state-of-the-art audio-visual technology
- Award-winning in-house catering team serves customized menus
- We offer 140,000 square feet of exhibition space with flexible configurations
- Our staff provides hands-on service for event planning and execution
Services
Event Planning
Our award-winning event planning team specializes in creating customized experiences for conferences, trade shows, and corporate events. We provide comprehensive support from initial planning through execution, ensuring seamless coordination of space configurations, technical requirements, and vendor management. Our expertise in large-scale event logistics makes us the preferred choice for complex gatherings in Hartford.
Catering Services
Our in-house catering team delivers exceptional culinary experiences tailored to each event's specific needs. We offer customizable menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and accommodate special dietary requirements. With experience serving thousands of guests annually, our catering staff ensures flawless execution of meals and refreshments for events of all sizes.
Exhibitor Support
We provide comprehensive support for exhibitors including loading dock access, freight elevator availability, and utility connections. Our staff offers detailed floor plan assistance and maintains hands-on service throughout the event cycle. The facility's direct highway access and efficient layout streamline the delivery and setup process for exhibitors.
Meeting Spaces
Our versatile spaces include a 40,000-square-foot ballroom, 140,000 square feet of exhibition space, and 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting areas. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and scenic views of the Connecticut River. The spaces can be configured for events ranging from intimate meetings to large conventions.
Wedding Venues
The convention center offers elegant spaces for wedding ceremonies and receptions with riverfront views. Our event planners coordinate venue setup, catering, and technical requirements for weddings of various sizes. The facility's central location and ample parking make it accessible for guests from across New England.
People
Michael Costelli
General Manager
Michael Costelli oversees all operations at the Connecticut Convention Center with over 20 years of hospitality management experience. He leads the team in delivering exceptional service while maintaining the facility's status as New England's premier event destination.
Michele Hughes
Director of Sales & Marketing
Michele Hughes leads sales and marketing efforts with extensive experience in convention center operations. She specializes in attracting regional and national events to Hartford while promoting the center's unique capabilities to potential clients.
Jaime Testa-Gonzalez
Director of Events
Jaime Testa-Gonzalez manages event coordination with a focus on client satisfaction. With deep expertise in large-scale event logistics, they ensure seamless execution of complex programs while maintaining the center's high service standards.
Cecilia Han
Convention Services Manager
Cecilia Han oversees convention services with a commitment to operational excellence. She coordinates staff and resources to support smooth event execution, drawing on extensive experience in convention center management to address client needs effectively.
Questions
What types of events can the Connecticut Convention Center host?
We accommodate diverse events including trade shows, conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, and special exhibitions.
Does the center offer catering services?
Yes, we provide customizable catering options with locally sourced ingredients for events of all sizes.
How accessible is the convention center?
The center features direct highway access from I-84 and I-91 with ample on-site parking available.
What makes the Connecticut Convention Center unique?
Our riverfront location, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced staff create exceptional event experiences.
Are there nearby hotels and restaurants?
Yes, the center is surrounded by numerous hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options in downtown Hartford.
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