Phoenix Convention Center Breaks Attendance Record and Prepares for a Promising Year Ahead
In an impressive feat for the Phoenix Convention Center, attendance soared to over 315,000 visitors in 2024, marking a new milestone for the facility. This record-setting achievement underscores the center’s growing reputation as a premier event destination.
Looking ahead, the Convention Center has already lined up 64 events for 2025, surpassing the previous year’s bookings by two events. Among these is the notable inclusion of SEMICON West, a pivotal gathering for the semiconductor industry’s leaders and manufacturers. Center representative Sarah Field emphasized the significance of this event by stating, “This really solidifies Phoenix as a tech showcase and an influential destination, especially surrounding microelectronics.” The event is expected to draw over 6,500 delegates and generate nearly $10 million in direct spending.
Traditionally hosted in the San Francisco area, SEMICON West’s relocation to Phoenix marks a first, with plans to return in 2027 and 2029. This move highlights Phoenix’s growing allure as a hub for technological conventions.
Field also highlighted the upcoming busy summer season at the Convention Center, largely driven by what the hospitality industry terms “SMERFS” — Social, Military, Education, Religious, and Fraternal groups. “SMERF is a hospitality acronym standing for Social Military Education Religious Fraternal,” she explained. These groups tend to seek cost-effective options, which the center can provide during its seasonal rate period. This summer alone, four such groups are expected to bring in more than 72,000 attendees.
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