In what will certainly be a boom to the local economy, the Long Beach Convention Center is expected to start holding events in August, per the Long Beach Post. In fact, the first convention is already set for August 8 for the National Business Media.
Steve Goodling, president and CEO of the Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, said in an e-mail to stakeholders that conventions of up to 5,000 will be allowed. While there are no expected mandates for physical distancing, masks will be required.
The Long Beach Post notes that conventions of more than 5,000 could be allowed if organizers require proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID test.
The annual Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, one of the city’s premier events originally scheduled for last week, is also on the calendar for September 24-26.
Until then, the city of Long Beach will house unaccompanied minors crossing the California/Mexico border at the Convention Center, per a new lease agreement with the federal government. The migrant holding facility contract will end on August 2.