Planners

Event Planning FAQs

Do you have audio visual services?

CMCC partners with South Carolina Audio Visual (SCAV) as the preferred audiovisual provider offering projection, sound, lighting, LED walls, and on-site technical support throughout your event. Learn more on our AV Services page.

What catering options are available at the CMCC?

All food and beverage services are provided by OVG Hospitality, the exclusive onsite caterer. Custom menus are available, with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. View menus and catering details on our Food & Drink page.

What copying & printing services does the CMCC provide?

Basic copying and printing services are available onsite, subject to quantity limitations. Documents can be submitted electronically or as hard copies.

Are linens included? What are my options?

Black non-floor length linens can be provided by CMCC.  These are included at no additional cost if you are serving a hot meal in your event space.  If you are not serving a hot meal, these can be provided at $8 each.  Floorlength linens or additional colors would need to be sourced through a 3^rd party.

Do I need to provide event security?

Security requirements depend on the event type, attendance, and activities. All security personnel must be ordered through the Convention Center, outside or third-party security teams are not permitted. Your Event Manager will review security requirements with you during planning to ensure compliance and help determine appropriate coverage for your event. For more information on security at the convention center, visit our Security Policies page. 

 Do I need event insurance?

Between the 2 existing sentences, add “Event insurance is typically required for events with 500 or more attendees, open to the public, or serving alcohol, though other instances still apply. 

Where can I find the CMCC code of conduct policy?

The Code of Conduct is outlined in the Facility Guide on page 25, which includes guest behavior expectations and prohibited items.

What parking options are available at the CMCC?

There are multiple parking options available for your event at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Read more on our Parking Directions page. Limited complimentary parking is available in the CMCC lot (first-come, first-served), and reserved parking is available when the entire facility is contracted.

Public pay-to-park garages nearby are open to the public and operated by other organizations, so availability is not guaranteed. Contact City Parking at 803-545-4015 for details. Similarly, Metered street parking is available along many of the streets around the facility.

We would love to help transport your attendees in our (14) passenger shuttle. Please contact the Experience Columbia SC team at 803-545-0020 for pricing and availability.

Does Columbia make a good location for a conference or expo?

Columbia offers a central South Carolina location, direct interstate access, a regional airport, walkable downtown amenities, and a vibrant cultural scene—making it an attractive and affordable destination for conferences and expos.

How many hotels are within walking distance of the Convention Center?

There are multiple hotels within walking distance of the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, including full-service and boutique properties in downtown Columbia. This walkable hotel inventory makes it easy for conference and convention attendees to stay close to meetings, events, dining, and entertainment. For a current list of nearby hotels, visit our Hotels page.

How far in advance should I book the convention center?

This depends on the type of event, and time of year.  Most events are confirmed 12-24 months in advance.  How far in advance you can book is dependent on the Facility’s booking policy.  Contact our Sales Team for details.

What does a typical event deposit or booking fee look like?

If you are booking more than 3 months prior to your event date, the deposit is typically 25% of the total license fee.  The balance of the license fee is due 90 days before the event date.  Event charges and your full catering cost are due 3 business days before your event date.

What is included in a standard event booking the CMCC?

The license fee of the space includes the pre-function space outside the room, as well as your basic room seating. Additional items such as AV, electrical, security, etc. do have an additional cost.

Can I tour the convention center before booking?

Yes!  Reach out to our team to schedule your tour in advance to ensure a sales manager is available, and the room is not booked by another group on that day/time.  You can request an in-person site visit, and/or see the spaces on a virtual tour here.

What is the cancellation or rescheduling policy?

If you cancel your event more than 6 months prior to the event start date, you forfeit only your 25% deposit paid. Cancellations received 3-6 months event the event start date forfeit 50% of the license fee. Cancellations received within 3 months of the event start date forfeit their full license fee. Event charges would only be due if the cancellation was made within 3 business days of the event. Catering cancellation fees may also apply depending on the timeline and where we are in the advancing process. Contact OVG for details.

If you reschedule your event more than 6 month prior to the event start date, a 25% rescheduling fee is added form your old           dates & space. If you reschedule your event within 6 months of your event start date, a 50% rescheduling fee is added from           your old dates & space. If we are able to resell any of the spaces previously booked, the rescheduling fee from that date/            space will be removed. Event charges would only be due if the rescheduling was done within 3 business days of the event.            Catering rescheduling fees may also apply depending on the timeline and where we are in the advancing process. Contact           OVG for details. 

How do I get a cost estimate for my event?

The best place to start is by submitting as much information as you have through our online booking inquiry and a member of our team will reach out to you with details & any follow up questions to put together a cost estimate for you.