Trade Show News

Downtown Pittsburgh is undergoing a significant revitalization, with renovations to Market Square and the opening of Arts Landing, an outdoor entertainment space. These projects are being accelerated by the impending 2026 NFL Draft, which serves as a clear deadline for completion. Local leaders anticipate that these infrastructure improvements will enhance the city's appeal for major events and tourism, ushering in a new chapter for the Golden Triangle.

The Anaheim Hotel, located a short walk from the Anaheim Convention Center, is highlighting its newly renovated interiors and versatile meeting space. The hotel, which also features the largest swimming pool in the Anaheim Resort, aims to provide a modern and comfortable experience for guests. This update enhances the hospitality options available to trade show attendees and organizers in Anaheim.

San Diego's hotel market is drawing renewed attention from investors due to strong tourism demand, limited new supply, and a diversified local economy. The recent opening of the Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center in Chula Vista in May 2025 also signals confidence in the region's ability to attract major group and convention business.

ComicCon KC, held at the Kansas City Convention Center from March 28-30, 2026, is expected to draw over 80,000 attendees and generate an estimated $13.8 million in economic impact, including over 2,000 hotel room nights. The event, featuring celebrity guests and hundreds of vendors, has become a major economic driver for the city.

Seattle's tourism economy is entering a pivotal year, with forecasts predicting a sharp decline in international visitors in 2025, even as preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 accelerate. Economic impact studies project the World Cup will generate at least $929 million in total economic impact for King County and support nearly 21,000 jobs. Event planners anticipate the influx of visitors will extend beyond match days.

The City of San Antonio is forecasting a contract for temporary electrical and plumbing services at the Convention Center, specifically for events with a revenue component through commissions to the City, as part of its FY 2026 Annual Procurement Forecast.

The IAEE Central Texas Chapter is organizing a volunteer day at the Food Bank in San Antonio on April 21, 2026. This event provides an opportunity for industry professionals to engage in community service and networking, as listed on the chapter's current events calendar.

The TSNN Awards will be held in Milwaukee in November 2026, celebrating the industry's top trade shows, organizations, and professionals. Nominations for the awards open on August 1, 2026, with winners announced at the ceremony on November 16, 2026.

The Santa Clara Convention Center, a key venue near San Jose for conventions and trade shows, is seeking a Director of Security & Public Safety. This role is crucial for managing public safety, security, and emergency preparedness for the center, which attracts over 350,000 visitors annually and contributes significantly to the local economy.

Cincy Expos has announced dates for three major conventions in 2026: Anime Ohio (July 10-12 at Sharonville Convention Center), Super Cincy Expo (May 15-17 at Sharonville Convention Center), and Cincinnati Comic Expo (September 25-27 at First Financial Center). These events bring together fans for comics, anime, gaming, and cosplay.

The Gateway Harmonica Club will host the 2026 SPAH Convention from August 11-15, 2026, at the Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel in St. Louis. This marks the tenth time the club has hosted the annual convention, which is expected to feature performances, seminars, and open mic sessions.

Pittsburgh Robotics & AI Discovery Day 2026 is announced as a free and open event showcasing cutting-edge robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence solutions. The event will feature over 250 exhibitors with live demonstrations of groundbreaking technologies. It aims to connect business leaders, tech enthusiasts, and job seekers with emerging career opportunities in the field.

SAMPE, a leading community for professionals in materials and process engineering, is scheduled to hold its event in Seattle, WA, from April 27-30, 2026. GracoRoberts Family of Brands will be exhibiting at Booth M25 during the show.

RETAIL SPACES, an international event for store development and design leaders, will be held from March 29, 2026, for three days at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio.

The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, directly connected to the McCormick Place Convention Center, is undergoing a full meeting space renovation, with completion noted for 2026. The hotel will also feature four newly renovated dining outlets.

Huntington Place Convention Center is undergoing a significant expansion on its west side, including a Second Avenue Extension over the M-10 Freeway, set for completion by October 2026. This project will provide seamless access to the Riverfront for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Additionally, a skybridge connecting Huntington Place directly to the upcoming JW Marriott Hotel is under construction, with completion anticipated by October 2027.

The 2026 Atlanta Manufacturing Trade Show by Design-2-Part will be held at the Cobb Convention Center. The Cobb Convention Center is debuting after a transformative $190 million expansion, offering expanded exhibit space and modern amenities. This revitalized venue is located at the heart of Atlanta's booming manufacturing and logistics corridor.

The Denver City Council is considering a $108 million financing deal for the Colorado Convention Center garage and the Denver Performing Arts Center parking garage. This funding is intended to replace the existing fire alarm system at the Colorado Convention Center and cover associated execution costs. The council meeting on March 28, 2026, includes this bill for final consideration.

Over $3.5 billion in new district development is transforming Kansas City into a premier meetings destination, with the reimagined Barney Allis Plaza slated to open in 2026 near the Kansas City Convention Center. This renovation will offer multifunctional outdoor event spaces, alongside new hotel developments, including a 99-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites opening in 2026.