Plan Your Event

Space Planning

At GWSEC, every event starts with the right space. With more than 200,000 sq. ft. of configurable areas—from grand ballrooms to intimate breakout rooms—we make it easy to find the perfect fit. Explore our room options and setups below to see how each space can be tailored to your vision, your guest list, and your goals.

Room Name

Sq Ft

Boardroom

Theater

Reception

Banquet

Classroom

U-Shape

Conference

Room Name

Main Hall

Sq Ft

116,844

Boardroom

2,687

Theater

13,437

Reception

10,749

Banquet

7,678

Classroom

5,374

U-Shape

2,986

Conference

3,583

Room Name

Banquet Hall

Sq Ft

4,536

Boardroom

106

Theater

532

Reception

426

Banquet

304

Classroom

213

U-Shape

118

Conference

142

Room Name

Board Room

Sq Ft

1,119

Boardroom

26

Theater

131

Reception

105

Banquet

75

Classroom

52

U-Shape

29

Conference

35

Room Name

Flex Space (6)

Sq Ft

572

Boardroom

13

Theater

67

Reception

53

Banquet

38

Classroom

26

U-Shape

14

Conference

17

Room Name

Balcony

Sq Ft

2,268

Boardroom

54

Theater

272

Reception

217

Banquet

155

Classroom

108

U-Shape

60

Conference

72

Room Name

Breakout Room A

Sq Ft

834

Boardroom

19

Theater

97

Reception

78

Banquet

55

Classroom

39

U-Shape

21

Conference

26

Room Name

Breakout Room B

Sq Ft

1,018

Boardroom

23

Theater

119

Reception

95

Banquet

68

Classroom

47

U-Shape

26

Conference

31

Room Name

Breakout Room C

Sq Ft

963

Boardroom

22

Theater

113

Reception

90

Banquet

64

Classroom

45

U-Shape

25

Conference

30

Event Setup Types

Boardroom

A single long table with chairs placed around it, typically rectangular or oval. Used for executive meetings, small groups, and discussions where participants face each other.

Theater (Auditorium)

Rows of chairs all facing the front, with no tables. Maximizes seating capacity. Best for presentations, lectures, keynotes, or performances.

Reception (Standing)

Open floor with high-top tables or no tables at all, designed for mingling, networking, and cocktails. Guests stand and move freely.

Banquet (Rounds of 10)

Round tables (typically 60″ or 72″ diameter) seating 8–10 people per table. Often used for meals, galas, and weddings. Capacity depends on table size and spacing for aisles/servers.

Classroom (Schoolroom)

Rows of rectangular tables with chairs facing the front. Each table usually seats 2–3 people. Used for trainings, workshops, or note-taking sessions.

U-Shape

Tables arranged in a U formation with open space in the middle, chairs placed on the outside. Facilitates discussion and presentations to smaller groups (often training sessions or board-style meetings).

Conference (Hollow Square)

Tables arranged in a rectangle or square with an open center, chairs placed around the outside. Good for medium-sized groups that need to face each other, while accommodating more people than a U-shape.

Exhibit Hall Planning

Our Main Hall offers a flexible, column-free footprint ideal for exhibitions and trade shows. Using a balanced layout approach with 10′ × 10′ booths and 10′ aisles between each row, we can comfortably accommodate 456 exhibitor booths while ensuring smooth traffic flow and attendee access to every exhibitor. The plan also includes two 30′ × 50′ food station areas and perimeter aisles for circulation. This configuration balances density with comfort, creating a professional exhibit environment that maximizes both exhibitor presence and guest experience.

Catering at GWSEC

Our in-house culinary team creates dining experiences that match the scale and style of your event. Whether you’re planning a working session, a cocktail reception, or a gala dinner, our menus are designed to impress and adapt. Below are sample menu categories to inspire your planning:

Executive Lunches

Keep your team energized with a variety of fresh, chef-prepared lunch options. From gourmet sandwiches and salads to hot buffet selections, our lunches are crafted for both convenience and quality.

Receptions & Networking

Perfect for cocktail hours and mixers, these menus feature passed hors d’oeuvres, elegant displays, and interactive stations that encourage conversation and flow.

Banquet Dinners

For galas, fundraisers, or formal celebrations, our plated and buffet-style dinners highlight seasonal ingredients and culinary creativity—elevating every seat at the table.

Breakfast & Breaks

Start strong or recharge between sessions with breakfast buffets, coffee service, and snack breaks designed to keep guests engaged throughout the day.

Family-Friendly Options

Tournaments and youth events call for food that’s quick, satisfying, and family-approved. Our flexible options make sure athletes and spectators alike are fueled for the day.

Custom Menus

Looking for something unique? Our culinary team can design a menu tailored to your event theme, brand, or special dietary needs.

Parking

Is parking available on-site?

Yes. Ample on-site parking is available for athletes, guests, and staff.

Where can I park if I need accessible access?

Designated ADA-accessible spaces are located close to the main entrance. Please display the proper credentials when using these spaces.

Can buses or oversized vehicles park on-site?

Yes. We ask that you notify our team in advance so we can direct buses and oversized vehicles to their designated areas.

Security & Entry

What security measures are in place?
Professional security staff are on-site during all events to ensure guest safety. All guests and bags may be subject to inspection upon entry.
Are there items I cannot bring into the facility?

Yes. Prohibited items include:

  • Outside food and beverage
  • Weapons or sharp objects
  • Fireworks or explosives
  • Any other item deemed unsafe by our staff

Bag Policy

What type of bags are allowed?

For safety and efficiency,  bags  are permitted but may be subjected to search.

What if I need to carry a medical or childcare item?

Medically necessary items and childcare needs are permitted, but may be subject to inspection.

Cashless Facility

Do I need cash for concessions or tickets?
No. The Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center currently operates cashless. Debit, credit, and mobile payment methods are accepted.

Accessibility

Is the facility ADA compliant?
Yes. Our center is fully ADA accessible with designated parking, entrances, seating, and restrooms.
Who can I contact for special accommodations
Please reach out to our guest services team prior to your event so we can ensure your needs are met.

Loading & Unloading for Events

How do vendors or event organizers load in equipment?
We provide dedicated loading docks and drive-up access points. All load-in and load-out times must be coordinated with our operations team in advance.

Food & Beverage

Can I bring in outside food or drinks?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted unless specifically approved in advance.
What dining options are available?
Our in-house culinary team provides a range of options—from quick concessions to full-service catering for banquets, receptions, and corporate events.

Food Allergies & Dietary Needs

How does the facility handle food allergies?
We take allergies seriously. Please notify our catering team in advance of any allergies or dietary needs. Ingredient information is available on request.

Adventure Gym & Activity Areas

What should I wear in the Adventure Gym?
Proper athletic attire and closed-toe athletic shoes are required.
Can I bring food or drinks into the gym?

No. Food, drinks, and chewing gum are not permitted in activity zones.

Are waivers required?
Yes. Certain activities may require a signed waiver. Please check with staff prior to participating.

Additional Guest Information

Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes. Complimentary guest Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility.
Is smoking allowed on the property?
No. The Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center is a smoke-free and vape-free facility.
What should I do if I lose something?
Visit Guest Services or contact our team after your visit. Lost and found items are logged and held for a limited time.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted inside the facility.

Your event. Your guests. Every detail, covered.

If you have additional questions, please contact our team—we’re here to help make your experience exceptional.