Happy birthday, PCC
By Terry Murry on Thursday, December 1st, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – The Pendleton Convention Center opened its doors in 1992, following its remodeling supported by a $1.7 million property tax bond. The community is invited to celebrate its 30th anniversary Monday.
The Pendleton Memorial Veterans Armory was built in 1956. The city acquired the building in 1990 and began work on its renovation. Since then, the structure has undergone multiple expansions and renovations to make it able to host large and small events.
“The Pendleton Convention Center has been a big benefit to this community,” Manager Pat Beard said. “We know that since 1992 the convention center has hosted over 5,000 events ranging from monthly meetings of local organizations to large, multi-day conferences or entertainment events.”
The longest-standing event is the Oregon School Activities Association 2A State Basketball Tournament., which predates the center itself. It has been held there since 1957. Another event of note is the convention for the Grand Chapter of the Oregon Order of the Eastern Star, which has been held at the center every year since it first opened.
In addition, the convention center plays some sort of role in every major event in Pendleton. That includes the Pendleton Round-Up, the Happy Canyon Pageant, the Jackalope Jamboree, the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest, and the Pendleton Ride.
“the way the convention center works best is when it brings multi-day events here for people out of town, so they’re staying in lodging, eating, shopping, and visiting attractions,” Beard said. The Pendleton Convention Center 30-year Anniversary Celebration is from 5-7 p.m. Monday in the main hall, 1601 Westgate. It’s free, but reservations are requested by calling 541-276-6569.
Armory photo via the Umatilla County Historical Society.
