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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I become an exhibitor?

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As the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s, we are merely the event venue. We are not organizing or running the event. In order to become an exhibitor to any trade or consumer show, you are best to contact the event organizers directly. Check out our News and Events sections to see a list of some upcoming shows.

Q: Can we provide our own food or beverages for an event?

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The Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s is a full service facility. As such, there are rules and regulations in place that prohibit us from allowing any outside food and beverage due to liability purposes. All food and beverage needs must be arranged through the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s.

Q: How/where do I access the loading dock?

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Our loading docks are located at the back of our building with dedicated street access. These loading docks are located at 10 MacNab Street South. Please remember that a loading dock supervisor must be booked with your Event Services Associate in advance for all event move ins and move outs at an additional cost, where required.

Q: Where can I stay?

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The Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s is directly connected to the Sheraton Hamilton. This property features over 300 newly renovated rooms. Additionally, the Homewood Suites by Hilton is located half a block from the Convention Centre, the Staybridge Suites is located two blocks from the Convention Centre, and the Hampton Inn by Hilton is four blocks from the Convention Centre. There are over 800 hotel rooms within walking radius of the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s.

Q: Is there parking at the Convention Centre? How much does it cost?

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Absolutely. The Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s is directly connected to a six level underground parking garage operated by the City of Hamilton Municipal Parking Authority, able to accommodate up to 600 vehicles at once. Because this is a municipal owned lot, parking charges will apply based on the duration of stay and can range anywhere from $3.25 per hour to a daily maximum of $15.00. Rain or shine, you won’t have to worry about braving the elements, as you can take the elevator right from the underground parking lot directly to the first, second or third floor levels of the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s.

Q: Do you accommodate film and television shoots?

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Yes, we absolutely do. Charges for use of the facility for filming television or movie needs vary depending on the duration of the shoot and space requirements. Please note that in some instances, IATSE labour may be required to be used during filming. Let us know your needs, and we would be happy to put together a formal quote.

Q: Is the Convention Centre wheelchair accessible?

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Yes it is, starting right from the underground parking lot. Guests can be dropped off at the front doors, or take an elevator right from the under parking lot, directly into the facility. Additionally, all of our washrooms are wheelchair accessible, our hallways wide set, and we are proud to say that we are fully accessible. Please check out the Accessibility section of our website. Special note, wheel chairs are on site in the case of an emergency.

Q: Where can I buy tickets for FirstOntario Concert Hall? The Studio? Or FirstOntario Centre?

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These facilities are separate from the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s. Our good friends from Core Entertainment would be happy to assist you to purchase tickets for a show at one of their venues. Please visit their website at http://www.coreentertainment.ca.

Q: Can I use the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s logo and photos to promote my event?

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We are happy to assist all our events in any way we can. Therefore, we will certainly allow the use of our corporate logo and photos. This request must be made with your Event Services Associate in writing, and once approved, the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s will supply you with the correct version of our corporate logo.

Q: Can I park my vehicle in the loading dock?

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Please remember that we share a loading dock with our good friends at the FirstOntario Concert Hall and the Ellen Fairclough Building. We have four designated loading bays allocated to the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s. There is the potential to leave a vehicle or move-in truck in the loading dock, any special parking arrangements must be made in advance with your Event Services Associate during your event finalization. This loading dock is not available to be used for event attendees of vendors to leave their vehicles in, outside of their designated move in and move out times.

Q: What’s included in my basic room rental?

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A basic room rental includes use of the space for the designated time, as well as chairs set up theatre style. No other complimentary services, water stations, food, tables, or linens are included in a basic room rental. Any additions such as a food and beverage package will include the setup of tables with linens, all necessary serving utensils, cutlery, and glassware.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available on site?

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We are proud to offer COMPLIMENTARY high speed Wi-Fi to not only event organizers, but attendees alike. All three levels of our facility offer free Wi-Fi service throughout the hallways, corridors, as well as inside the banquet and meeting rooms themselves. Please inquire with your Event Services Associate to acquire the password. Note that large numbers of guests may result in service interruption.

Q: Can I supply my own A/V (Audio Visual)?

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Soundbox Productions is the preferred service partner of the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen's. They can provide your event with audio solutions, full lighting packages, video solutions and staging. We welcome the challenge of your requirements and look forward to working with you. Please visit our Service Partners for contact information.

Q: Can I supply my own electrical?

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Soundbox Productions is the preferred service partner of the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen's and can supply you with competitive pricing for temporary power and lighting services. Please visit our Service Partners for contact information.