
Things to Know
Cowlitz Event Center
The Cowlitz Regional Conference Center offers over 20,000 square feet of versatile event space, including a 13,000-square-foot exposition hall with a seamless polished concrete floor—ideal for trade shows, exhibitions, and large-scale events in the Pacific Northwest.
Things to Know
All events must provide $1,000,000.00 liability insurance, listing "Cowlitz County Event Center" as additional insured. If you do not have a policy, most events may purchase a policy in our office. Rates depend on the size of your event.
Room Setup Guidelines
- No Confetti/Glitter without prior written approval
- No fog/smoke machines will be permitted
- Candles are allowed only when enclosed inside a glass holder. Charges will be assessed for melted wax found on linens, chairs, or carpet
- Décor may be hung from the ceiling if prior arrangements are made. The Event Center staff can assist with this. Please see your Event Coordinator to discuss potential costs for this service.
- Helium Tanks must be mounted on a cart
- Only blue painter's tape will be allowed on painted walls and room partitions and T-pins on fabric walls
- No tape of any kind is permitted on any floor surface
- No outside food or drink is permitted at any time. All catering, refreshments, and beverages must be contracted through our exclusive on-site caterer, Summerland Catering. One celebratory cake is permitted for parties or receptions.
- After your event, all of your items must be removed from the room, unless prior arrangements have been made
- Large boxes, cardboard, etc. shall be removed by the contractee, unless prior arrangements have been made. Additional charges may apply if such items are left after an event
- Skirting with self-sticking adhesive backing is not permitted. If used, additional charges may apply for cleanup
- CCEC is not responsible for equipment failure due to power or water hookups
- CCEC is not liable for lost, stolen or vandalized property or equipment
Vendor/Concessions/Tradeshows
- Tradeshows and/or consumer shows need to contact the City of Longview Department of Community Development, located in Longview City Hall to see if their event is considered for special permitting. This must be done at least 30 days prior to the event. It is recommended that you do this as soon as you have a layout drawn up, in case changes need to be made.
- We reserve the right to open the in-house concession stand at any event deemed necessary ($50.00 per hour in sales minimum if requested by client)
- Helium tanks must be on carts
- Skirting with self-sticking adhesive backing is not permitted. If used, additional charges may apply for cleanup
- Contractee can have additional concessions outside at a cost of $50 per day for fully self-contained units or $100 per day for full hookups of power and water
- No dumping of grey water or grease on Cowlitz County Event Center property
- Cowlitz County Event Center is not responsible for equipment failure due to power or water hookups
- Cowlitz County Event Center is not liable for lost, stolen or vandalized property or equipment
- No popcorn or shelled peanuts to be sold or given away by vendors or concessions
- Contractee needs to require food vendors have adequate insurance
- Food concessions need to adhere to Cowlitz County Health Department rules and regulations-proof of this may be required at any time
- Cowlitz County Event Center has the right to stop any and all food handouts by vendors
- Animals are not permitted inside the common areas or carpeted areas of the facility at any time. They are allowed in the Mt. St. Helens room only in conjunction with events contracted to have animals. This policy will be strictly enforced

FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions

Kim Bowcutt
Event Center Director
Before stepping into her current role, Kim built a strong foundation in the hospitality industry, managing hotels and honing her expertise in event operations. For the past 20 years, she has been an integral part of the Cowlitz County Event Center, where she now serves as the Director. In this role, she oversees the Fair & Rodeo, County Tourism, and the Event Center, bringing passion and vision to every aspect of her work.
Kim’s lifelong love for community, rodeo, and event management continues to drive her commitment to excellence. Whether in the arena, behind the camera, or leading large-scale events, she brings dedication and heart to everything she does.

Shelby Hixson
Administrative Assistant
Since 2017, she has been with Cowlitz County, managing Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable for the office. Shelby brings several years of customer service experience and is dedicated to ensuring financial operations run smoothly and efficiently in her role.
Outside of work, Shelby enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and kids.
Meet Our Coordinators!

Ashley Lachney
Business Development + Marketing Coordinator
She joins The Event Center excited to partner with clients in creating a great guest experience and unforgettable events.

Maile Walker
Fair Coordinator
Maile also coordinates the Cowlitz County Fair, utilizing her skills to bring people together and ensure successful events. Maile is dedicated to fostering strong community connections and creating enjoyable, lasting experiences for all involved.

Melinda Payne
Event Coordinator
With a career spanning philanthropy, finance, customer relations, and event planning, she has developed a diverse skill set. Her combination of strategic vision, organizational skills, and passion for helping others defines her professional journey.

Our Mission
“To be a self-sustained leading provider of event facilities and services in Southwest Washington through the delivery of competitively priced, customer-focused products and services.”
Make our space yours.
We see the big picture in small details. From pre-planning to post-event, our skilled Event Coordinators take care of the details so you can focus on what's really important: your guests.




