More than 315,000 people attended events at the Phoenix Convention Center in 2024, setting a new record, according to the center.
So far, the Convention Center has booked 64 events in 2025. That’s two more than last year. The center’s Sarah Field said it includes SEMICON West, a conference that connects manufacturers and leaders in the semiconductor industry.
“This really solidifies Phoenix as a tech showcase and an influential destination, especially surrounding microelectronics,” she recently told council members. “We expect over 6,500 delegates and a direct spend of nearly $10 million.”
After decades of being held in the San Francisco area, it’s the first time SEMICON West will take place in Phoenix with plans to return in 2027 and 2029.
Field said the Convention Center expects a busy summer. The center’s Sarah Field says it’s because of groups referred to as “SMERFS.”
“SMERF is a hospitality acronym standing for Social Military Education Religious Fraternal,” she said. “These groups typically are seeking value, and so we're able to offer very attractive offers during the summer months when we have the seasonal rate.”
Field said four groups booked this summer will bring in more than 72,000 people.
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