WASHINGTON DC: Events DC Engages 1776’s Technology Showcase, Challenge Cup Festival to Launch Immersive Virtual Reality Experience at Carnegie Library - June 7

Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, announced today the launch of its virtual reality experience at the 1776 Challenge Cup Global Finals & Festival. The annual Challenge Cup Festival kicks off today the at Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square and brings together entrepreneurs, influencers, policymakers, investors and other startup champions from all over the globe to Washington, DC.

This innovative and emerging technology inclusive of 360-degree and 3D virtual reality is redefining event experiences and providing new dimensions of attendee engagement which will allow Events DC to showcase its ability to produce and host a wide variety of unforgettable events.

“Events DC is taking event engagement to the next level with the unveiling of fully immersive virtual reality experiences across our three lines of business,” said Greg O’Dell, president and chief executive officer of Events DC. “We are committed to enhancing and delivering amazing customer experiences and this initiative along with our partnership with 1776 further demonstrates our monumental stride to drive technology initiatives across our venues. Further, we continue to showcase Washington, DC as a tech-focused community that will help propel our city’s economic footprint.”

Using 360-degree and 3D imagery, Events DC’s virtual reality program entails vibrant visuals and videos from conventions and meetings, sports and entertainment and special events to allow users to bring their imagination and re-imagine possibilities within the Events DC portfolio. The Samsung Gear VR headsets, powered by Oculus technology, provide a new and dynamic way to produce content and interact with consumers and future clients.

Within this 3D experience, users will be able to pinpoint the sights and sounds of various events in every direction and feel immersed in the full Events DC brand experience. Other features of the technology is the ability to view 360-degree simulated events and spaces independent of the Samsung Gear VR headset; allowing event planners and producers to view full perspectives and possibilities on mobile devices supported by the content developed.

Events DC remains focused on long-term technology enhancements across its venues in an effort to keep Washington, DC in the forefront as a digital leader. Some of the latest technology and infrastructure improvements at Events DC include the spring 2016 roll out of free Wi-Fi at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center as well as a state-of-the-art digital signage system featuring more than 200 high-definition LCD flat panel screens and interactive touchscreen displays. Additional technology enhancements include Dasdak, a mobile ordering platform available at both RFK Stadium and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and remote event connectivity capabilities with surrounding hotels and attractions.

Virtual reality capabilities will be utilized not only to promote upcoming events, capabilities and initiatives but will also provide a preview inside event venue transformations, unique and raw venue spaces and architectural visualization updates exploring the RFK Stadium-Armory Campus redevelopment plan and the future Entertainment and Sports Arena project in Congress Heights.

This year’s 1776 Challenge Cup 2016 competition features more than 3,000 applicants from 54 international cities vying for $175,000 in cash grants and up to $1 million in funding.