Fort Worth Convention Center Held Final Event

The city has officially closed the aging facility to prepare for a multi-million dollar expansion project.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration depicting a clean, geometric architectural structure representing the modernization of city convention facilities. — The Fort Worth Convention Center held its final event on September 20, 2026, as the city prepares for a complete site demolition and modernization. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local governments prioritize new infrastructure projects over preserving historic community landmarks?

The Fort Worth Convention Center hosted its final event on September 20, 2026, marking the end of nearly six decades of operations. City officials are now moving toward a total demolition of the site slated for early 2027.

Why it matters

The closure is part of a broader push to modernize local facilities after the 2019 opening of Dickies Arena rendered the older convention space obsolete. The city aims to remain competitive for large-scale conventions and business events.

The modernization project carries a total budget of $700 million. This investment follows the venue's initial 1968 opening and a smaller south side expansion completed in 2003.

The players

Fort Worth Convention Center

This facility has served as the city primary venue for conventions and public events since the late 1960s.

Dickies Arena

Opened in 2019, this venue has changed the local landscape for large events and contributed to the decision to modernize older facilities.

The details

Managed by the public events department, the facility will undergo demolition to make room for a significantly upgraded space. The plan, which was reviewed by city officials in February 2026, intends to expand capacity for future convention business.

The venue opened as the Tarrant County Convention Center in 1968.
A south side expansion was completed in 2003.
The Dickies Arena opened in 2019.
Expansion plans were reviewed by city officials in February 2026.
The facility hosted its final event on September 20, 2026.

Market Landscape

The closure of the legacy convention center follows the pattern set by the 2019 opening of Dickies Arena by shifting major event demand to a modern facility. This transition reflects a broader shift toward consolidating large-scale event business into modern, purpose-built arenas.

Residents and event planners should expect a temporary reduction in convention capacity during the construction period leading up to 2027. Local businesses that rely on foot traffic from convention attendees may experience shifts in activity until the new facilities are completed.

The takeaway

The move signals a significant transition for the city as it pivots toward larger, more modern event hosting capabilities. Citizens should prepare for a transition period in the local event market while the site remains under construction.