The Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford recently marked its 20th anniversary with a commemorative event celebrating two decades of economic impact, community revitalization and public-private partnership. The event brought together state and local officials, business leaders, and longtime collaborators.

Since opening on June 2, 2005, the 540,000-square-foot Connecticut Convention Center, reportedly the largest full-service convention venue between New York and Boston, has hosted more than 3,000 events and more than six million visitors. It stands as a cornerstone of Hartford’s Front Street District, which also includes the Hartford Marriott Downtown, the Connecticut Science Center and a growing mix of entertainment, housing and educational developments.

“The venue’s location between two major metro areas was once seen as a challenge — but it’s become one of its greatest strengths,” said Michael Freimuth, executive director of the Capital Region Development Authority. “Accessibility and affordability have made this Center a go-to destination for everything from industry expos and sporting events to black-tie galas.”