The Raleigh Convention Center gave a sneak peak Sunday afternoon of its $220 million facility, which will open Friday after years of delays and debate over using taxpayer funds to support the project.

Convention Center Director Roger Krupa gave the media a tour of the facility, showing all aspects of the 500,000 square foot building.

Visitors entering the convention center will see wide open space with huge windows that bring in abundant amounts of light, just one feature that makes the facility energy-efficient.

Building materials like limestone and brick were used to mimic other buildings in Raleigh, like the state Capitol.

"So the building tried hard in reflecting the values of North Carolina and the traditions we have here," said Steve Schuster of Clearscapes Architects.

The upper floor of the convention center includes three ballrooms which can hold thousands of people each.

Unique architecture on the ceilings, walls and floor reflect various North Carolina industries.

"The feeling is reminiscent of the textile industry in a weave. The woven wood is a reflection of the furniture industry," Krupa said.

The 11,000 square foot kitchen includes $100,000 worth of china and around 20 large refrigerators.

Krupa said the chefs will make every effort to use local produce and meats in the food that is prepared.

The convention center said it already booked around 150 conventions so far.

The first event begins Sep. 11, and the center has booked one event as far out as 2023, said Laurie Okun, Director of Sales.

"We're completely blown away by the interest in our area and in the convention center," she said.

The center's ribbon-cutting will be held with city and county leaders on Friday, kicking off the city's "Raleigh Wide Open" event.

During the weekend the center will be open to the public for viewing.