Latest news with #ConventionCenter
Skift
29-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
Diversity, Inclusion, and the Outdoors: How Greater Fort Lauderdale Welcomes Everyone Under the Sun
The newly expanded Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale combines waterfront beauty, cultural diversity, and inclusive design to create an ideal setting for large, accessible events. With state-of-the-art features, on-site accommodations, and a welcoming spirit, it's a destination where creativity, well-being, and belonging thrive. Greater Fort Lauderdale's enviable weather and miles of golden beaches make it an easy choice for event planners who appreciate nature's positive impact on well-being and productivity. But beyond that postcard-perfect surface, you'll find that the region's true beauty lies in its warm hospitality and cultural diversity. And when you pair those ideal elements with the recent expansion of the waterfront Broward County Convention Center (BCCC), you've got the perfect recipe for a meaningful mega event. 'We are a sophisticated, diverse, dynamic destination that offers great airlift, world-class meeting and convention facilities, upscale hotels, and endless opportunities for activities and excitement beyond the meeting room,' said Mike Pouey, the Vice President of Sales and Business Development for Visit Lauderdale. How BCCC Prioritizes Accessibility and Inclusion Diversity and inclusion are not a passing trend in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area — they're an integral part of the destination's DNA. There's a strong history of Seminole and Caribbean heritage, and the region is home to people from 170 countries. More than 145 languages are spoken here, and you'll find Greater Fort Lauderdale's rich cultural diversity reflected in the local restaurants and cultural events. In addition, LGBTQ+ residents and visitors feel at home in Greater Fort Lauderdale. 'It's known as Florida's LGBTQ+ capital for its welcoming vibe and abundance of gay-owned bars, restaurants, and other businesses, as well as its annual Pride Festival and LGBTQ+ events,' Pouey said. Fort Lauderdale is also committed to the inclusion of travelers with disabilities. 'Accessibility initiatives implemented across the region ensure that the destination welcomes travelers with both visible and hidden disabilities,' Pouey said. 'Broward County Convention Center is accessible-friendly, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program that supports travelers with disabilities, and even the beaches have features for travelers of all abilities to be able to enjoy the beach and the water.' Interested in planning an event at the Broward County Convention Center but unsure how you can welcome 'everyone under the sun?' According to Pouey, the BCCC team provides a variety of resources and services for planners to create an inclusive and accessible event. 'By supporting the 'everyone under the sun' motto, BCCC offers an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to participate fully.' Networking feels effortless when the ocean is your backdrop.. Photo credit: visit lauderdale. The New Broward County Convention Center: Features & Highlights Here are some key ways they achieve this: Accessibility features: The convention center is equipped with wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms and seating areas, and other features that ensure all attendees can navigate the venue comfortably. BCCC was the first convention center in North America to participate in the Sunflower program, and an on-site Sunflower room offers a quiet place for attendees with disabilities to relax between meetings. Customizable spaces: With flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces, planners can tailor layouts to meet the specific needs of their audience, ensuring that everyone can participate fully. Staff training: The convention center staff is trained in accessibility best practices, enabling them to assist event planners in implementing inclusive strategies. Collaboration: The center actively works with event planners to understand their specific accessibility needs and provide guidance on creating an inclusive environment. Connected & Convenient: Location Advantages for Planners Located just five minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, event attendees can reach the Broward County Convention Center moments after their flight touches down. And the location isn't just convenient for arrival and departure — it's also within walking distance of several hotels and a quick drive to ports (including Port Everglades, which is adjacent to the convention center), restaurants, and an abundance of outdoor activities along Greater Fort Lauderdale's 24 miles of beaches. 'There are numerous golf courses in the area, as well as watersports, such as deep-sea fishing and scuba diving,' Pouey said. 'And you can find plenty of shopping and dining options on Las Olas Boulevard, in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.' Some popular spots, like the legendary Elbo Room, a beach bar on the corner of Las Olas and A1A, have served cold drinks, warm hospitality, and live music for over 80 years. Mix business and mingling with rooftop views that inspire connection.. photo credit: visit lauderdale. Waterfront Wellness: The Value of Blue Space in Meetings Beyond the logistical ease of BCCC's location and the appeal of the entertainment options in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area, this extraordinary setting also offers natural mind and body benefits to foster engaging meetings. Studies have found that being near 'blue spaces' (bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, or oceans) promotes physical activity and has a restorative effect on the mind. BCCC offers a six-acre outdoor plaza on-site, and less than one mile away, conference goers can also access several beaches certified as 'Blue Wave' for their safety, cleanliness, and environmental standards. So, whether you host open-air meetings at BCCC or plan an off-site team building or relaxation activity at the beach, this waterfront location is ideal for event planners and attendees who value the balance of work and wellness and are interested in an environment that inspires creativity. Newly Expanded Facilities for Mega Events The recent expansion is taking the Broward County Convention Center from 600,000 square feet to 1.2 million square feet. 'We're doubling in size,' said Richard Fredette, BCCC's Director of Facilities. 'We'll have a six-acre plaza in front of the building with an acoustical amphitheater and a couple of areas where we can add enclosed tents. And we'll have the 801-room Omni hotel at our door, connected to the existing building. It's a game changer for Fort Lauderdale.' The updated developments are indeed catapulting BCCC into an entirely new category. 'Our newly expanded convention center and the Omni hotel are ideal for large conventions that need to occupy several overflow hotels,' Pouey said. 'Our expanded expo hall puts us in the 'mega convention center' category, allowing us to accommodate more attendees and huge trade shows.' According to Pouey, the expansion, coupled with the availability of the area's high-end hotels, 300 sports venues, numerous parks and recreation facilities, beaches, pleasant weather, and entertainment, also makes BCCC a perfect fit for incentive trips, large medical and healthcare conventions, and sporting events. But growing in size doesn't mean sacrificing the welcoming vibes Fort Lauderdale and BCCC are known for. In fact, the expanded space is creating even more opportunities to share that hospitality with more people through highly customized large events, indoor and outdoor meetings, and memorable dining experiences. Inspiring Events Start Here: Tailored Experiences at BCCC From the initial site visit through the closing event, Fredette said the BCCC team presents meeting planners with tailored options and advice down to the smallest details, such as mocktails that are inclusive to attendees who don't drink alcohol and tropical touches that take meals beyond typical trade show eats to exceptional fare that reflects the flavors of Fort Lauderdale and the event. Now, there's more room to enjoy it all at BCCC. 'The new tropical outdoor waterfront event area can host welcome receptions and other meals, entertainment functions, and activations,' Pouey said. 'The convention center will also have one of the largest waterfront ballrooms (65,000 square feet) in the state and numerous branding opportunities for planners, including over 85 digital monitors.' photo caption: The Broward County Convention Center boasts a 6-acre outdoor plaza and multipurpose venue. photo credit: visit lauderdale In addition to acoustical architecture, LED color-changing lighting, and other state-of-the-art technology, Fredette said the ballroom has another extra special feature. 'On the east side of the Atlantic Ballroom is a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway, where you can see boats and cruise ships going in and out.' This is yet another way BCCC connects meetings — even those held indoors — to the stunning setting outside. This is an ideal home base for meetings and events that prioritize inclusivity, diversity, accessibility, well-being, and creativity. Now, with the expanded facilities and the on-site Omni hotel, Fort Lauderdale and the Broward County Convention Center are ready to welcome 'everyone under the sun.' This content was created collaboratively by Visit Lauderdale and Skift's branded content studio, SkiftX.
Yahoo
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
COMIC-CON DAY 2: The streets of the Gaslamp Quarter come alive
Just across from the Convention Center, the streets came alive. With music, fans, costumes, and long lines- waiting for fan experiences as well as food.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Metro Council picks firm to search for downtown revitalization project developer
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — The East Baton Rouge Metro Council has chosen Hunden Partners as the advisor for the Baton Rouge Convention Center Expansion and Headquarters Hotel Development Project. The firm will start a nationwide search for a qualified developer with contract talks beginning soon. A news release from Visit Baton Rouge said Hunden was the top choice of the Project Oversight Committee led by Councilmember Carolyn Coleman. The project aims to revitalize the downtown riverfront. It will also complement other developments, such as the planned LSU Arena. The River Center will host mid-size events, while the LSU arena will handle large entertainment and university sports. Raising Cane's River Center plan moves forward at Metro Council meeting 'With every step forward, this project to reimagine and revitalize Baton Rouge's downtown riverfront picks up steam,' said Mayor-President Sid Edwards. 'I look forward to being a big part of helping lead the development of this revitalization project.' The developer selection process may take up to 24 months. Hunden brings national experience from similar projects and has already assessed Baton Rouge's entertainment venue potential, according to the news release. 'An expanded, first-class downtown convention center and a new, high-end headquarters hotel will transform the downtown riverfront into the vibrant tourist destination and hub for locals we have always known it can and should be,' said Visit Baton Rouge President and CEO Jill Kidder, who also serves as vice-chair of the Project Oversight Committee. The 11-member oversight committee was formed last year and includes council members and community stakeholders. Landry names new head of Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Republicans barrel toward risky vote on DOGE cuts VIDEO: Police chase excavator during extremely slow-speed pursuit in South Carolina Metro Council picks firm to search for downtown revitalization project developer Trump says Rand Paul invited to picnic while Massie slams him over invites Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Associated Press
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional Alchemy Grammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.' — Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across Denver But the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis. About Psychedelic Science Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPS Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACT [email protected]
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional AlchemyGrammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.'—Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across DenverBut the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: MAPS Psychedelic Science Kickoff Party with Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live, and Jim James and Vic Mensa DJ Sets: My Morning Jacket's Jim James and Vic Mensa will both host special DJ sets, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening ahead of Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live at the Mission Ballroom on Tuesday, June 17. Presented by Good Trip Studios, producers of Have a Good Trip on Netflix, this kickoff promises an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community. Tandava with Poranguí & Savej: Join Tandava Retreats on Tuesday, June 17, at Cervantes for a night of tribal rhythms, global healing sounds, and comedy by Dennis Walker (the Mycopreneur). Good Trip Presents: Conversation + Listening Party with Vic Mensa (Wednesday, June 18 at The PORTAL Dome): An intimate, 360° experience with music, film, and deep conversation. Join rapper and activist Vic Mensa for a Q&A and listening session, blending beats and dialogue in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). Blind Melon with Ridgeliners Live at Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom (Thursday, June 19): Experience an unforgettable night of alternative rock as Blind Melon brings their neo-psychedelic sound to Denver's Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom on Thursday, June 19. Known for their 1993 hit "No Rain," Blind Melon continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of rock and soulful melodies. Good Trip Presents: Conversation, Q&A, and Listening Party of My Morning Jacket's New Album 'Is' with Jim James (Friday, June 20 at The PORTAL Dome) invites you to an intimate, 360° experience that blends music, film, and deep conversation. Join My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James for a Q&A and exclusive listening session for the band's new album, 'is' in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). LSZEE: LSDREAM & CloZee Live at Mission Ballroom (June 19–22): A bass-fueled collaboration that fuses psychedelic rhythms and global beats for an auditory adventure. Ecstatic Dance Denver (Sunday Morning Dance Party – Sober, Safe, and Sacred): No booze. No cell phones. No small talk. Just pure movement with Denver's top EDM DJs. Other highlights include immersive series like Shroomski Melt, Queer Magic 2, and more community gatherings. Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come Psychedelic SciencePsychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPSFounded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACTmedia@
