The $276M Savannah Convention Center expansion, doubling exhibit space and adding a ballroom, is set to open for events in February 2025.
Big things are happening on Hutchinson Island as the Savannah Convention Center’s $276 million expansion moves closer to completion. Officials have announced that the upgraded facility is set to host its first contracted event— the Nike Savannah Showdown volleyball tournament—on February 13-15, 2025.
This long-anticipated expansion, which faced delays earlier this year, will double the convention center’s exhibit hall space and add a new ballroom. These improvements are expected to solidify Savannah as a premier destination for large-scale events and conferences.
During the center’s annual holiday luncheon, board chairman Mark V. Smith confidently stated, “I don’t think there’s any question that we will definitely hold the volleyball tournament.”
Guests at the luncheon watched a video preview of the expanded space, featuring large exhibit halls and lobbies decorated with art from local Savannah artists. Savannah Convention Center General Manager Kelvin Moore praised the facility’s unique design, saying, “You don’t get this anywhere else in the country. I’m proud to be here. You guys should be proud to have this in your community.”
The expansion has already received a temporary occupancy permit, allowing limited use of the building while finishing touches are underway. Though some items, like escalators and elevators, are still being completed, the ballroom may even be ready in time for the Savannah Economic Development Authority’s annual breakfast on January 14—a goal center leaders are working hard to meet.
With its enhanced capacity and state-of-the-art facilities, the revamped Savannah Convention Center is poised to elevate Savannah’s reputation in the convention and tourism industry, bringing even more opportunities to the community.
