Phase 1 of The Marq, Southlake’s new event center, opened in December.[/caption]

After 18 years in the making, the first phase of The Marq, Southlake’s multimillion-dollar event and activity center, opened in December.

The center, located at 285 Shady Oaks Drive, encompasses more than 23,000 square feet available for corporate, private and social gatherings.

Its Legends Hall includes the Traditions Ballroom, the Legacy Meeting Rooms, The Club Lounge, the Senior Activity Center and Aria Outdoor Amphitheater.

There are a variety of room configurations available with seating for up to 300. Traditions Ballroom also has an on-site catering kitchen available.

With the move to the new facility the senior center is able to offer more events and programs to its members. The new senior center also features a lounge area, game room and fitness room for members.

“The senior center has been busy with business as usual—hosting weekly lunches and many events and programs,” said Vicky Schiber, communications and marketing manager for The Marq. “At this point we are encouraging people to stop by the facility and take a look. We will start booking events in February.”

Phase 2 is expected to start construction this year.

Phase 2 will include aquatics, an indoor playground and a track.

For more information, visit www.themarqsouthlake.com.