Gallagher Convention Centre — Attraction in Gauteng

I have been here in 2022 and 2023 for the rAge Expo/NAG LAN. Some things have been improved but there are some glaring issues.

Security: In both 2022 and 2023 security was laughable at the NAG LAN. Owners of computers claim them with unique stickers and numbers, and are supposed to prove their number on the way out. This is good in theory, but in both '22 and '23 I just walked out with my computer and others from our group without so much as a glance from security. I could have walked out with anyones computers. Not to mention bags are BARELY glanced at if you're even lucky enough to be asked to open them on the way in. On the way out over multiple days I was never asked to open my bag. I could have grabbed literally ANYTHING.

Parking: Parking areas are designated, but some areas are off-limits. For example: NAG LAN covered parking was fine, we parked there day 0, but day 1 we were denied access because "we're not supposed to park there and must park outside" while others were happy to go back to their car inside with the SAME TICKET and permission as us. Very weird that some are allowed but not others, and I was threatened with "clamping" should I park in there. Empty threats as others who were the same as me happily stayed in areas they're "not supposed to be in". Please make sure everyone is told what they should be doing BEFORE the event starts - NOT after a day or two of the event. I complained about being unfairly punished while others could stay in shaded parking and the guard called for management to come. Half an hour later: Nothing. After an hour I gave up. The guard called multiple times over the radio for management but NONE responded. II would not be surprised if management was not even present during this MASSIVE event.

Power: Loadshedding was a MAJOR issue in '22. Aircon did not work at all with backup generators. This has changed in '23. Aircon now runs during loadshedding and keeps the halls at a bareable tempreature. It just takes a LONG time for generators to start after loadshedding begins, but this feels like it's improved since '22. There is no battery backup/inverter/UPS so if you're coming for the NAG LAN, make sure your computer is OFF before loadshedding starts or stops, as there will be downtime.

Food: This has improved dramatically since '22. '22 had worringly smelly meat and food, but '23 had food provided by Gallagher's catering service, and was infinitely better. Sandwiches were well priced, but tiny wraps for like R70 was hilarious. The quality of food was impeccable. Do expect to pay R20+ for a CAN of cool drink. If you can get your way to a nearby petrol station to get drinks for the expo/NAG LAN unless you're happy paying a premium.

All in all, I'm upping this review from 1 to 2 stars, but Gallagher has a long way to go with some...

I recently attended an event at the Gallagher Convention Centre, and overall, it was a great experience! The venue is spacious, well-organized, and easy to navigate, making it perfect for large conferences, expos, and trade shows. The staff were friendly and professional, ensuring everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

One of the standout features was the ample parking space, which is always a plus when attending a big event. The facilities themselves are functional, with clean restrooms and plenty of seating areas for networking or resting between sessions. The catering was also impressive, offering a variety of food and beverages to suit all tastes.

That said, while the centre does the job very well, it does feel a bit dated in some areas. The décor and some of the amenities could use a refresh to bring it up to modern standards. But this minor drawback doesn't overshadow the overall positive experience.

I would definitely recommend the Gallagher Convention Centre for anyone looking to host or attend events in Johannesburg. It's a solid choice, and with a few upgrades, it could easily be a top-tier venue. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars for now—still a great place, just a little room for...

I'd always heard about the Gallagher Convention Centre's reputation, but my recent visit for the 2025 Pure Worship Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses truly exceeded expectations. Gallagher stands out as a premier convention venue, rivalling Nasrec Expo Centre in capacity but offering a distinctly more refined experience.

Unlike Nasrec's primarily utilitarian, industrial feel, Gallagher presents a polished, upscale environment. Expect elegant tiled foyers, carpeting, fabric-draped walls, and seamless climate control. The facilities are top-notch: reliable free Wi-Fi, sophisticated restrooms, and everything needed for a seamless event.

Adding to the ambiance are beautifully landscaped gardens with water features and cobbled pathways, creating a serene oasis. All this is nestled within a convenient, accessible downtown location.

Gallagher truly is a sophisticated, all-inclusive venue – it provides absolutely everything required (and more) to host an exceptional event. I rarely apportion 5 stars for my reviews but I think for Gallagher, it's well deserved. Truly highly...