Editor’s Note: This is story has been updated to clarify when the sign is scheduled to be fully operational.
Cincinnati’s reimagined convention center has installed its new LED sign ahead of the building’s January opening.
The iconic “Cincinnati” sign is back in the skyline, facing Interstate 75 on the West side of the convention center. But it’s not on yet. The sign is still undergoing testing and will be fully operational at the convention center’s ribbon cutting on Jan. 7.
Replacement of the old sign started in summer 2025. Each LED-illuminated letter will be fully customizable with the ability to play live video or display Bengals stripes, according to a news release from the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation.
The sign was last updated in 2014. Issues with the former sign and the availability of replacement parts made it increasingly costly to maintain, according to the news release.
A spokesperson with the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation did not share the price of the sign and its installation, but the building’s overall renovation was a $264 million project.
The convention center will celebrate its reopening with a ceremonial ribbon cutting Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. Registration is required for the event.
Reds Fest will be the first major event hosted at the remade convention center, Jan. 16 to 17.
Enquirer reporter Sydney Franklin contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: New convention center ‘Cincinnati’ sign installed in time for holidays
Reporting by Gillian Stawiszynski, Cincinnati Enquirer / Cincinnati Enquirer
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
