Eglise_Notre-Dame, Dijon ©Alice ColasThe city’s economic landscape is characterised by its innovative industries and strong educational institutions, fostering a fertile ground for research and development. This dynamic economic environment is supported by Dijon’s deep cultural roots – the city is home to two UNESCO-listed sites – particularly when it comes to gastronomy and wine. Dijon’s historical commitment to these fields is exemplified by the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin, a two-year-old landmark project that not only attracts visitors but also serves as a sophisticated venue that offers unique culinary experiences in its 4,500-sqm dedicated food court.
In fact, Dijon’s conference infrastructure is robust, featuring a variety of high-quality venues that cater to a range of event sizes and types. Central to this infrastructure is the Palais des Congrès and des Expositions, a state-of-the-art facility ideally suited for large-scale gatherings with 31,000 sqm of event space and a 1,6000-seat auditorium, the Gaston Gérard stadium or the Zénith arena. The availability of these venues, coupled with their accessibility via an efficient tramway system and proximity to over 4,500 hotel rooms (and counting!) in the city and a high-speed train station sitting directly in its centre, demonstrates Dijon’s readiness to accommodate events of all sizes and format.
As it should, sustainability is another draw in the Burgundy capital. The city is at the forefront of energy transition and sustainable urban development: initiatives such as promoting soft mobility and green energy use in urban planning are not only enhancing the quality of life for its residents but are also positioning Dijon as a model for sustainable event hosting. These efforts reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility that resonates well with associations looking to minimise their ecological footprint.
Illustrating Dijon’s capability and readiness to host significant events, the city is scheduled to welcome two major conferences in 2024: the Journée Hydrogène in June and the World Congress on Vine and Wine in October. These events are set to attract global attention, showcasing Dijon’s strengths in sectors like sustainable energy and viticulture. The World Congress on Vine and Wine, for instance, will coincide with the inauguration of the headquarters of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, highlighting Dijon’s influential role in the global wine industry.
And if you’re looking for support, the Dijon Convention Bureau, which was recently launched, is at your service. Serving as a one-stop shop for event planners, providing comprehensive support from the initial planning stages to the execution of the event, the Bureau can assist with venue selection, ensuring that each event finds a perfect fit among Dijon’s array of facilities.
Contact: congres@otdijon.com / www.destinationdijon.com