Exterior view of Centro de Eventos Fortaleza CE event center building

Centro De Eventos Do Ceará

Centro de Eventos do Ceará: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Centro de Eventos do Ceará (CEC), located in the bustling Edson Queiroz district of Fortaleza, Brazil, is a leading center for business, culture, and entertainment in Latin America. Recognized for its innovative architecture—which draws inspiration from Ceará’s coastal cliffs and local lacework—the CEC has played a pivotal role in transforming its neighborhood into an economic and cultural hub. As Brazil’s second-largest convention center by usable area, it accommodates a broad spectrum of events, from international trade fairs and industry expos to major cultural festivals and concerts.

This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on CEC’s visiting hours, ticketing, event highlights, architectural significance, transportation options, nearby attractions, and practical visitor tips. Whether you are a business traveler, a festival-goer, or a tourist exploring Fortaleza’s historical and cultural sites, this article will help you make the most of your visit to the Centro de Eventos do Ceará.

For official updates and further reading, see the Wikipedia page and the ADECE government portal.

Exterior view of Centro de Eventos in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil

Historical Background

Origins and Purpose

The CEC was developed to address Fortaleza’s need for a modern, large-scale venue capable of hosting international events and to boost the city’s status as a destination for business tourism. Prior to its construction, the city’s events were limited by the aging Centro de Convenções do Ceará. Construction began in 2009, led by a consortium of Galvão Engenharia S/A and Andrade Mendonça S/A, with an investment of around R$ 467 million. The center officially opened in August 2012 and has since become a symbol of regional pride, hosting over 450 events and accommodating up to 30,000 visitors at a time (Wikipedia; ADECE).

Strategic Location

Positioned on Avenida Washington Soares, one of Fortaleza’s busiest arteries, the CEC’s location was chosen for its accessibility and growth potential. The venue is adjacent to major hotels, shopping centers, and educational institutions, including the University of Fortaleza (UNIFOR), and is well-served by public and private transportation (Moovit; Labcom FAUUSP).

Impact and Legacy

Since its inauguration, the CEC has catalyzed urban development and economic diversification in Fortaleza. It has fostered year-round tourism, supported local businesses, and elevated the city’s international profile. Major events such as SANA, PEC Nordeste, and Expomóvel Ceará drive substantial economic activity and cultural engagement (Mercado & Eventos).

Architectural Significance

Design and Layout

CEC’s architecture is a homage to Ceará’s natural and cultural heritage, with design elements reflecting coastal cliffs and intricate local lacework. The center covers 177,000 m² on a 17-hectare plot and is organized into two main pavilions—East and West—each offering column-free, modular spaces of 13,500 m² suitable for events of all sizes (ADECE; Wikipedia).

Pavilion Configuration

West Pavilion: Features five modular halls named after west coast beaches: Pecém, Jericoacoara, Taíba, Almofala, and Mundaú.
East Pavilion: Comprises three large halls named after east coast beaches: Icapuí, Aracati, and Iguape.
Additional Facilities: Includes 36 multi-purpose rooms, ample lobbies, business centers, and support services.

Infrastructure and Sustainability

CEC offers 3,200 parking spaces (1,760 covered), state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, high-speed Wi-Fi, air-conditioned lobbies, and dedicated areas for administration, medical services, security, and family needs. Sustainability features include energy-efficient air conditioning, vacuum-based waste disposal, and water-saving fixtures (ADECE).

Accessibility

Universal accessibility is integral to the CEC, with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, tactile signage, and trained staff to assist visitors with disabilities.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

The CEC operates according to its event calendar. Most events are open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but hours may vary by event. Always check the official website or the relevant event page for the most accurate schedule.

Tickets and Entry

Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be purchased online via event-specific platforms (e.g., Ticket360), through the CEC website, or on-site at the box office.
Pricing: Varies by event, with discounts for people with disabilities and companions. Some events offer free entry.
Registration: Trade fairs and conventions may require advance registration.

Facilities and Services

Food & Beverage: Cafeterias, snack bars, and food trucks with local and international options.
Rest Areas: Comfortable lounges and networking spaces.
Wi-Fi: Available throughout the venue.
Information Desks: Multilingual staff for assistance and guidance.
Medical Services: On-site first aid and emergency response.
Lost & Found: Office available during events.

Transportation

Public Transportation

CEC is accessible via numerous bus lines and is close to the Estação Pontes Vieira VLT station. Detailed route information is available on Moovit.

The venue offers extensive on-site parking. Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, 99) have designated drop-off and pick-up points. During major events, shuttle services may connect CEC with hotels and city landmarks.

Major Events at CEC in 2025

PEC Nordeste 2025

Dates: June 5–7, 2025
Overview: The largest agribusiness event in Northern and Northeastern Brazil, featuring over 1,300 stands and 600 companies.
Highlights: Thematic auditoriums, business networking, workshops, and Brazil’s largest dairy competition (Centro de Eventos do Ceará).

Expomóvel Ceará 2025

Dates: May 27–29, 2025
Overview: Premier showcase for the furniture industry, featuring product launches, B2B meetings, and sector seminars.

SANA Festival 2025

Details: The largest geek and pop culture event in the region, with cosplay contests, gaming, and international guests, drawing over 150,000 visitors (O Povo).

Nearby Attractions and Fortaleza Highlights

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Praia do Futuro: Fortaleza’s most famous urban beach.
Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture: Cultural hub with museums and theaters.
Parque do Cocó: City’s largest urban green space.
Historic Downtown: Colonial architecture and local markets.
University of Fortaleza (UNIFOR): Cultural events and exhibitions.

Sustainability and Safety

The CEC implements robust sustainability protocols, including waste management, energy efficiency, and water conservation. Security is managed through surveillance, trained staff, and emergency response systems.

Tips for Visitors

Advance Ticketing: Book early for major events.
Accessibility: Contact the venue in advance for special needs.
Transportation: Use public transit or arrive early to secure parking.
Dress Code: Wear comfortable attire for extensive walking.
Language: Portuguese is primary, but English/Spanish support is available during international events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Centro de Eventos do Ceará visiting hours?
A: Event-dependent, typically 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Confirm on the CEC website.

Q: How do I purchase event tickets?
A: Through official event sites, the CEC website, or authorized platforms like Ticket360.

Q: Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with comprehensive accessibility features throughout the facility.

Q: What transport options are available?
A: Public buses, VLT, taxis, ride-sharing, and on-site parking.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Available for groups by arrangement; not routinely scheduled for the general public.

Contact and Support

For further information, contact the CEC at [email protected] or (85) 3195-0332. Visit the official website for event calendars and booking details.

Conclusion

The Centro de Eventos do Ceará is a premier venue that encapsulates Fortaleza’s dynamic spirit, marrying modernity with cultural tradition. Its strategic location, cutting-edge infrastructure, and diverse event calendar make it a central point for business, culture, and leisure in northeastern Brazil. For a seamless experience, plan ahead, utilize public transit, and explore the surrounding city highlights during your visit.

Stay informed about upcoming events by following the CEC’s official channels and downloading the Audiala app for real-time updates and exclusive offers.