The Classic Center is northeast Georgia’s premier award-winning convention center and performing arts theatre. Located in the heart of downtown Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center provides unique meeting space, outstanding special event services and a wide range of entertainment options making this unconventional convention center the choice for conferences, meetings and special events!
Under the auspices of The Classic Center Authority (CCA), a political subdivision of the state government, created on March 10, 1988, as enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Georgia. The Athens-Clarke County Commission appoints the 5-member CCA board of directors.
The Classic Center has been under the leadership of Executive Director Paul Cramer since it opened in 1995. Considered the crown jewel of downtown Athens, The Classic Center’s motto is “Be Impressed,” and guests most certainly are. Nearly 365,000 people attend more than 650 convention center and theatre events yearly.
The Classic Center Arena is expected to open in 2024 and will be a place that both residents and guests of the city can enjoy. This facility will have the capacity to hold 8,500 people and has the ability to transform for any occasion, from concerts and sports tournaments to general sessions.