Your association has just announced that your next trade show will be at the Oregon Convention Center (OCC) in Portland, OR. If you’ve visited the Rose City before, you know about the city’s renowned gardens, coffee, beer, wine, food, bookstores,  and shopping. If you are new to Portland, then you’re in for a delightful surprise, as the city’s unique amenities, landscape, and welcoming vibe has made it a growing hub for trade shows, expos, and regional events. 

In this post, we’ll share tips for attendees and exhibitors who are planning their visit to Portland and advice on how to maximize your trade show success at the Oregon Convention Center. Whether you’re visiting one of the many Oregon Convention Center events or exhibiting for the first time, a little preparation can make all the difference.

Popular Oregon Convention Center Events & Trade Shows

Each year, the Oregon Convention Center hosts trade shows attracting attendees and exhibitors from across North America and internationally. Some of the more popular events have a distinctly local vibe. These are recurring shows at the OCC which many Portlanders mark on their calendar as must attend events each year. 

Oregon International Auto & Motorcycle Show: The OIAS is the largest auto show in the Pacific Northwest. It showcases vehicles from over 40 manufacturers and includes “Rides and Drives,” new car giveaway, the Great Outdoors, and even motorcycles. 

Farwest Show: This is a significant event for the green industry in the West, typically held in August. It attracts growers, retailers, landscape professionals, and suppliers. 

Portland House & Outdoor Living Show: Usually held annually in the spring, this show brings together homeowners and home improvement experts, featuring the latest trends in remodeling, building, and outdoor living. 

Crafty Wonderland Art + Craft Market: A popular event featuring a wide array of handmade goods from local and regional artisans. 

Bricks Cascade: A large public LEGO fan event showcasing creations from builders around the Pacific Northwest and the world. 

Rose City Comic Con: A popular comic book and pop culture convention featuring creators, exhibitors, and celebrity guests. 

Kumoricon: Kumoricon is an annual three-day conference in Portland that celebrates anime, manga (Japanese comics), and Japanese culture. 

What Makes the Oregon Convention Center a Top Venue

Most convention centers look like, well, convention centers. In other words, functional buildings with modern amenities but basically big rectangle boxes. The Oregon Convention Center is known for its distinctive spire towers and curves. The north tower houses the world’s largest Foucault pendulum, called “Principia,” which swings over a gilded halo and an inlaid fantasy solar system on the floor. These towers are not just architectural features but also significant public artworks.

But the OCC is more than just a pretty face. With approximately 1 million sq. feet of space, the OCC is the largest convention center in the Pacific Northwest and boasts a 34,200 sq. ft. ballroom. Annually, it hosts around 400 events and attracts over 500,000 people. 

The OCC’s commitment to sustainability is where the facility truly shines. 

Sustainability Leader: The OCC is a pioneer in sustainability. It was the first existing convention center in the U.S. to achieve LEED-EB certification (in 2003) and later earned LEED Platinum certification, the highest level from the U.S. Green Building Council, for both operations and maintenance. Only one other convention center in the U.S. shares this distinction.  

Solar Powerhouse: The convention center has a large 6,500-panel solar array on its roof, which provides about 25% of the facility’s electricity. This is one of the largest solar arrays on any convention center in the United States. The remaining electricity and gas usage is offset with renewable energy credits.  

Rain Garden for Clean Water: The OCC features a 5.5-acre rain garden on its grounds. This garden filters stormwater runoff from the roof before it reaches the Willamette River, helping to reduce pollution and protect local waterways. The center is also Salmon-Safe certified for its watershed stewardship efforts.  

Commitment to Waste Diversion: The OCC has a long-term goal of diverting at least 70% of its waste from landfills through extensive recycling, composting, and donation programs. They work with local non-profit organizations to donate leftover food and reusable materials from events.  

The Oregon Convention Center is not just a large event space but also a facility with unique architectural features, a strong commitment to sustainability, and a significant role in the Portland community and economy. 

Types of Convention Center Events to Expect at the OCC

The OCC hosts a diverse range of local, regional, and national events, meetings, and trade shows. But what does that really mean? The October 2025 OCC calendar, for example, is an ideal snapshot into the types of events, large and small, held at the convention center.  

Conferences and Trade Shows

These events attract industry professionals and companies who want to connect with their peers, learn about the latest innovations, connect with potential customers, and understand market trends and their competitors. 

Oct. 6-10 – The Division for Early Childhood (DEC) 41st Annual International Conference

Oct. 23-25 – ASBH Annual Meeting (American Society for Bioethics and Humanities)

Oct. 26-31 – Society of Forensic Toxicologists Conference (SOFT)

Corporate Meetings and Seminars

In-person meetings and seminars enhance communication, build relationships, increase engagement, and create opportunities for feedback and problem solving. 

Oct. 2 – Plaid Pantry Management Meeting

Oct. 7 – Miller Nash Employment Law Seminar

Luncheons and Dinners

Like corporate meetings, luncheons and dinners offer all benefits of relationship building, reinforcing the organization’s culture, and interacting with internal and external stakeholders in an informal environment.  

Oct. 4 – ALS Dinner and Auction

Oct. 16 – Biannual Apartment Report Lunch

Expos and Regional Conferences

Not all trade shows or events are national. Regional conferences appeal to smaller audiences who share professional or personal interests. They often address issues and trends specific to a local market and are more accessible in terms of travel time and cost. 

Oct. 14 – 32nd Annual Northwest Public Employees Diversity Conference

Oct. 17-19 – Portland Retro Gaming Expo 2025

Oct. 25-26 – Oddities and Curiosities Expo 2025

Tips for Exhibiting at the OCC

The list of “To-Do’s” for any exhibitor is extensive. Regardless of the venue. Those tasks include ordering services from the show organizer, general show contractor, and the exhibition hall. The services (and prices) will vary depending on the contracts between those entities. At the OCC, the venue is the exclusive provider of the the the following: 

• Water Connection, fill and drain
• Natural gas
• Compressed air
• Cable TV
• Telecom and internet
• Booth cleaning and porter service 

In addition, the OCC provides the following services via contractors:

• Rigging
• Electrical
• Audio Visual
• Catering
• Restaurants

Freight Shipments

All freight should be shipped directly to your general show contractor. Ask your show manager for details or refer to the show book. 

The OCC does not accept or ship exhibitor freight or drayage. For larger conventions and trade shows, request shipping services through your organization’s third party decorator.

The OCC features 18 loading bays, all with load levelers, and 20-foot-high by 18-foot-wide door capacities. There is 8,000 square feet of indoor dock space with access to exhibit halls through three drive-in ramps and three roll-up doors. Door sizes vary from 20-22 feet tall to 18-20 feet wide.

When planning for an event, please refer to the OCC Client Services Guide. The guide includes venue information, services, sustainable policies, and digital resources. In addition, there’s also a helpful client checklist, which is perfect for show organizers and exhibitors. 

Tips for Attending Events at the OCC

The following are simple and helpful tips for anyone attending an event or trade show at the Oregon Convention Center. 

Before You Go

Check the Event Website: Get the most up-to-date information on event schedules, locations within the center, special instructions, and any COVID-19 protocols.

Plan Your Transportation and Parking: The section below has information and links about transportation and parking.

Purchase Tickets in Advance: If tickets are required, buying them online beforehand can save you time and potential lines at the event.

Know the Entrance: The designated main entrance is usually the MLK Lobby entrance. Check event-specific information for any alternative entrances.

Accessibility: The OCC is committed to accessibility. Check their website for information on accessible parking, entrances, restrooms, and other services. If you require specific accommodations (e.g., listening devices, sign language interpreters), contact the event organizer in advance.

Review the OCC’s Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any prohibited items or specific guidelines (e.g., regarding animals, confetti, display vehicles).

During the Event:

Arrive Early: This will give you time to park, navigate the center, find your event location, and settle in before it starts.

Bring Comfortable Shoes: The Oregon Convention Center is a large venue, and you will likely be walking.

Stay Hydrated and Fed: There are food and beverage options available within the convention center, but availability can vary by event. 

Utilize Information Booths: If you have questions or need directions, look for information booths or event staff who can assist you.

Familiarize Yourself with the Layout: Take a moment to look at maps or ask for directions to locate restrooms, exits, and any specific areas you need to access. See the map link below

Security: Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to event staff or security. The OCC has 24-hour general building security, and events may have additional security personnel.

Cashless Venue: Remember that the OCC is a cashless venue for transactions within the facility.

After the Event:

Be Patient with Departure: If the event was large, be prepared for potential delays when leaving the parking garage or waiting for public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Follow Exit Instructions: Pay attention to any specific exit instructions provided by event staff.

Lost and Found: If you lose an item, check with the event organizers or the OCC’s lost and found.

By following these tips, you can have a smoother and more enjoyable experience attending events at the Oregon Convention Center.

FAQ: Essential Portland Oregon Convention Center Info 

Oregon Convention Center Address 

777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Portland, OR 97232.

Located in DT Portland on the eastside of the Willamette River, the OCC is eight miles from the Portland International Airport (PDX) and adjacent to Interstate 5 North and Interstate 84 West. Portland’s TriMet services, MAX Light Rail, Streetcar, and Buses, all serve the OCC with hundreds of convenient stops and transportation throughout the metro Portland area. 

Hotels near Oregon Convention Center

Nearby Hotels (within walking distance)

• Hyatt Regency Portland at the OCC, 275 NE Holladay Street [0.2 miles]
• Hotel Eastlund, 1021 NE Grand Avenue [0.1 miles]
• Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 1000 NE Multnomah Street [0.4 miles]
• Courtyard Portland DT/Convention Center, 435 NE Wasco St. [0.3 miles]
• Crowne Plaza Portland, 1441 NE 2nd Avenue [0.4 miles]
• Inn at the Convention Center, 420 NE Holladay St. [01 miles]

Hotels in DT Portland on the Westside of the Willamette River

• The Benson Hotel Portland, 309 SW Broadway
• Hotel Lucia, 400 SW Broadway
• Heathman Hotel, 1001 SW Broadway
• Courtyard by Marriott Portland City Center, 550 SW Oak St.
• Hyatt Centric DT Portland, 601 SW 11th Avenue
• Embassy Suites by Hilton DT Portland, 319 SW Pine St.
• AC Hotel Portland DT, 888 SW 3rd Avenue

Oregon Convention Center Parking

Onsite parking is provided in the convention center’s underground garage. You may enter the garage through either the NE Lloyd Blvd (P1) or NE First Avenue (P2) entrances. Clearance on the P1 Level is 7 feet; clearance on the P2 Level is 9 feet. Parking is available for up to 800 vehicles.

Standard Daily Parking Entry Rate: 

• Up to 18 hours: $15 (No in and out privileges.)
• Over 18 hours: Additional fees apply.

Larger Event Parking Entry Rates: 

• A dynamic rate of $15 – $25 will be charged at parking garage entry during events.

Garage generally opens daily at 6:00 am. The garage does not accommodate RVs, campers, trucks with trailers and similar oversized vehicles.

Other Parking: There are several privately operated parking garages/lots in the area surrounding the convention center. Some privately owned lots around the OCC promote “convention center parking” but these are not operated by the Oregon Convention Center.

For public transportation, including light rail, streetcars, and buses, see Trimet. 

Oregon Convention Center Map

Click HERE for the official OCC floor plan and maps. The main entrances are on NE Martin Luther King Blvd and NE Holladay Street. Freight docks are on NE First Avenue.  

The OCC has six halls: A, A1, B, C, D, and E.

Guest Experience Marketplace

The Guest Experience Marketplace is located next to the main welcome desk in front of the guest experience office on the lobby level across from the MLK entrance.

Services:

• Self-serve complimentary cloud-based printing and copying (black and white, 8.5 x 11” paper only) 
• MagicBox kiosk for unique Portland-themed gifts 
• Buckman Publishing book kiosk 

The Welcome Concierge can assist with:

• Wheelchair and electric scooter reservations 
• Booster seats
• Lost and found 
• Directions and wayfinding within the building 
• Information about local Portland attractions and dining options 

Planning for Oregon Convention Center Events? We Can Help!

We’re local. And that’s a good thing. At Exhibits Northwest, we’ve been the go-to source for trade show expertise for over 30 years. Whether that’s for Pacific Northwest clients participating in trade shows and events through North America or for exhibitors who need a little or a lot of assistance with a show in Oregon, Washington, or Idaho. 

Reach out to us for exhibit design assistance, trade show marketing guidance, or explore our extensive gallery of purchase and rental exhibits. Searching for a trusted exhibition partner in the Pacific Norhtwest? Contact the Exhibits Northwest Team for all your trade show needs!