It was fun to get back into the swing of things and to see old friends while making new ones along the way. We also got to perfect our process of hosting virtual events and tried our hand at an esports tournament and a drive-in movie, so let’s hear it for variety and creativity.
We found that where there is a will — there’s a way. And everyone (almost) was ready to get back to in-person events. As we look to close the book on 2021, we want to share some of the highlights of the year, in no particular order.
1 2021 started a little slow but we were excited to host virtual and hybrid events for a number of clients. It was good to ease our way back into meeting mode and start connecting with colleagues. Clinica Tepeyac held a wonderful Virtual Fiesta celebrating organization volunteers and raising funds. Local personality Anne Trujillo hosted the virtual program which included video and awards celebrating Tepeyac and all of the achievements from 2020. Donations excitedly flowed in through a texting program, even without the in-person experience.
2 Love was in the air with a number of weddings and wedding receptions. Because of the pause of weddings and in-person events in 2020, venues like ours were busy in 2021. It was incredible to see people together again celebrating life and love with the most unique ballroom setups and designs. It appears that 2022 will be another busy wedding and reception year with many ready to tie the knot with families and friends in attendance.
3 To help out Denver Public Schools we hosted five high school graduation ceremonies over a week in May. With the outdoor space and stadium area open and available, many students were able to “walk” and enjoy the achievement of graduating high school. We accommodated over 8,700 students and parents over three different days. Congrats to all those who graduated!
4 In June we decided to host our own Picture This event on our Festival Plaza. It was time to celebrate the opening of venues and the opportunity to meet again. It was great to host this networking event with our friends at Catering by Design and see partners at this very intimate event. Even though the heat was blistering that day we made things work with a tent, comfortable furniture, excellent food, and misters! We hope to host this event again in 2022.
5 In August we hosted our third annual Throw Down Showdown talent contest. We had around 30 contestants apply to be a part of the competition. Taking place for the first time outside in the Infinity Park stadium, we had a beautiful evening, and a vivid stage set up on the Sports Plaza. The talent was entertaining with a nice variety of acts including musicians, a comedian and juggler. Gabi Cohlmia was our winner, taking home a $10,000 grand prize. Look for calls for talent in early 2022 for the next Throw Down Showdown!
6 During the park’s annual RugbyTown 7s tournament this year we hosted an esports competition between several of the military branches. Teams competed in a Rocket League tournament in the ballroom where command central was set up and esport athletes could revel in the 360-degree screens and the cool environment. Army was crowned champion after a two-day competition! We hope to host more esport events in the future including the return of the RugbyTown E-Sports Cup during the 2022 RugbyTown 7s!
7 Quinceanera’s were popular this year! And, we already have a few booked in 2022. Our ballroom is the perfect space to honor and celebrate this special occasion in a young woman’s life. Plus, you can transform it into the most unique and beautiful space. Whether you’re looking for floral decor to a masquerade ball, we can help shape that dream celebration.
8 Conferences and meetings were slow start this year. But we were delighted to host the Women in Cable and Telecommunications — Tech it Out event once again. Last year’s meeting was a virtual one with only a small studio presence. In 2021 an in-person or online option for attendees made the event seamless. We also hosted the Denver Economic and Development group as they hosted their final session with businesses in New Zealand and Australia. This event was held outside overlooking the rugby pitch.
9 Nine galas and fundraisers were a part of our calendar this year. Organizations were creative with events by going virtual initially and then using multiple event center spaces. With our park and expansive facility, you can also plan a walk or run to raise charitable funds. Concerts, picnics and a bourbon and beer tasting were also a part of the interesting galas that took place at our facility this year.
10 Companies have been creative with the options to celebrate the holidays. In the coming weeks we will be hosting traditional holiday parties in the ballroom along with a drive-in movie experience complete with treats in our P1 parking lot. An industry fashion show will round out the year.
As a bonus moment this year we said hello to new event managers, Lindsay Evens, and James Wilber. We welcomed two new babies to Event Center staff, and we all had some time to take a breather getting the whole event center cleaned up and sparkling for the year ahead.
We are grateful for a wonderful year and appreciate our incredible clients who have worked through all of the ups and downs of 2021 with us.
Set up a time now to discuss your 2022 celebration, event or meeting, the sky’s the limit in terms of flexibility and creativity. Have a wonderful holiday season!
