Raleigh, N.C. (June 30, 2026) – The Raleigh Convention Center (RCC) continues to elevate its reputation as a premier venue for dynamic sporting events, showcasing the flexibility and scale that sets it apart as a world-class event venue. Looking ahead, this momentum is matched by significant growth, as the RCC prepares for a dramatic expansion. With an anticipated opening in 2029, this development targets LEED Gold certification and will feature an additional 298,100-square-foot facility, bringing the RCC’s total to 798,100 sq. ft. Meeting planners can expect another 50,000 sq. ft. of divisible flex space, an 18,000 sq. ft. ballroom and 13 new meeting rooms in the expansion.

From the precision and problem-solving of CubingUSA competitions to the high-energy intensity of a premier youth boys’ basketball tournament and the functional fitness challenge of DEKA FIT, the Raleigh Convention Center is uniquely positioned to host a diverse range of competitive events. These events not only highlight the venue’s adaptability but also reinforce its growing role as a hub in the Southeast for hosting a variety of sporting events, drawing athletes, spectators and enthusiasts from across the country to Raleigh.

Top speedcubers will compete in the Rubik’s WCA North American Championship July 2-5, marking the first time this prestigious event will be held in Raleigh. Showcasing lightning‑fast solves and world-class skill, it is one of North America’s largest Rubik’s Cube competitions. Open to spectators, this high‑energy event highlights mental athletics, precision and community. The competition brings together the top North American speedcubers, with prize money being awarded to the top three competitors in each event. Matches include challenges for varying cube sizes, one-handed, blindfolded and speed-solving categories.

Phenom Hoops will return to the City of Oaks with its Phenom Hoops Live & Championship at the Capital, taking place July 9-12. This high-profile grassroots basketball event will feature top boys’ teams from 4th through 12th grade competing under one roof, delivering elite-level competition and significant visibility for college coaches across all skill levels. Now in its sixth iteration at the Raleigh Convention Center since 2023, the event’s continued success underscores the venue’s reputation as a trusted host for major youth basketball showcases.

Later this summer, the 2026 Raleigh DEKA FIT & Ultra, a decathlon-style fitness competition recognized for being designed to allow all levels of competitors the opportunity to celebrate the power of fitness will make its debut at the Raleigh Convention Center, Aug. 22-23. The event brings together athletes of all abilities to test their strength, endurance and determination across a series of functional fitness challenges in a high-energy environment. As a first-time event at the RCC, DEKA highlights the venue’s ongoing commitment to hosting innovative competitions that appeal to a broad and diverse athletic community.

Together, these events reinforce the Raleigh Convention Center’s position as a premier and evolving venue for innovative, high-impact sports experiences that draw competitors and fans from across the nation to Raleigh.
 

About the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance (GRSA):
A division of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Raleigh) – the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance (GRSA) markets and promotes Raleigh and all of Wake County to generate and/or retain sports-related businesses (tournaments, championships, special events and meetings) for economic development. Raleigh, N.C./Wake County welcomes 19 million visitors annually, whose spending tops $3.4 billion. The visitor economy supports more than 26,000 local jobs in Wake County and generates $321 million in state and local tax revenues, saving each Wake County household $720 in taxes annually. raleighsports.org

About The Complex:
The Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex ("The Complex") encompasses four city-owned and managed facilities including the Raleigh Convention Center Red Hat Amphitheater, the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts and Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. The Complex welcomes over 1 million visitors to meetings, events, concerts, theater performances and more every year. www.raleighconvention.com/complex

Media Contact:
Visit Raleigh
Jessica Holt
Director of Public Relations and International Tourism
919.645.2654
jholt@visitraleigh.com

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