The Rocky Mount Event Center has become a major driver of regional tourism and economic growth in Eastern North Carolina. With over 100,000 annual visitors, millions in local impact, and a growing mix of sports and community events, the facility is helping to transform downtown Rocky Mount and boost surrounding counties.
In a city long defined by resilience, the Rocky Mount Event Center, once an ambitious vision, is now a proven economic engine. Since its strong reopening in February 2021, the Event Center has consistently drawn tens of thousands of visitors annually, generating millions in economic impact and revitalizing the local economy.
In 2024 alone, the Center welcomed more than 105,000 attendees, contributing an estimated $26.7 million to the local economy. That impact extended beyond city limits, benefiting hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and transportation providers across Nash, Edgecombe, and Wilson counties. The Event Center has played a critical role in revitalizing Downtown Rocky Mount, especially on the historically underserved Edgecombe County side of the city. It sits in the heart of downtown, where Edgecombe and Nash counties meet.
David Joyner, the Event Center’s general manager, says the facility’s growth is rooted in its versatility and a strong commitment to hospitality.
“We don’t just treat you like another number or another event. We treat you like you matter, like you’re our neighbor, our friend,” he said. “Our guests love the experience—the parents rave about the facility, the staff, the service, and the versatility of our space. From the moment they enter to the moment they leave, everything is informed by that ethos of excellent guest experience.”
The Center has also become a major player in North Carolina’s sports tourism scene. In 2022, it hosted 19 tournaments. By 2024, that number had climbed to 28, nearly a 50% increase in just two years.
“Our facility is uniquely built to host those types of events, and that has allowed us to really position ourselves as one of the strongest destinations for amateur sports tourism in the state,” Joyner said.
That momentum has continued into 2025. In just the first quarter, the Event Center welcomed more than 45,000 attendees and generated over $11 million in economic impact, including $147,750 in paid parking revenue.
But the Center’s reach extends beyond sports. It has also expanded its non-sporting events, from concerts and community conferences to graduation ceremonies and corporate gatherings.
“Our catering and conventions business has grown significantly and has allowed us to bring thousands of visitors to our city throughout the year and especially during the week,” Joyner said.
Its success is also encouraging growth beyond the building itself. One major infrastructure project in the works is a walking and biking trail connecting the Downtown to Rocky Mount Mills, a popular Rocky Mount and Nash County destination, neighboring the Downtown. . It’s one of several efforts to create a more connected, visitor-friendly city.
“Our guests don’t just stay in Nash and Edgecombe counties; they also stay in Wilson County. We’ve been a real big economic shot in the arm for the entire region,” Joyner said.
As the Center continues to expand its presence and partnerships, Rocky Mount’s future as a destination for regional tourism and economic innovation looks stronger than ever.
To learn more about upcoming events, host your own, or schedule a tour of the facility, visit rockymountevents.com. Sign up for the newsletter and follow the Event Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for updates, behind-the-scenes highlights, and more.