The other finalists included BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, and the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia, which won the overall award. This prestigious award recognizes entertainment venues including stadiums, convention centers, arenas, performing arts centers, and academic institutions demonstrating excellence in the following criteria: service to the community, team building/professional development, safety and security, and operational excellence. The criteria used to evaluate the venues are at the core of IAVM’s mission, and are key components to the success and vitality of the venue industry.

A committee of industry leaders chose the finalist for each venue type, and winners were approved by the IAVM Board of Directors. In its 88th year, the Association’s annual conference and trade show is considered to be one of the largest venue indus ry gatherings in the United States. An estimated 1,600 venue management professionals and exhibitors attended this year’s conference.