Trade Show News

The AFA Board of Directors Convention is being held in Portland in 2026, a decision influenced by lobbying efforts to support the city's post-pandemic convention business recovery. The article emphasizes Portland's need for economic support and its strong union community. This event is seen as a significant step towards the city's economic revitalization.

This episode explores the impact of tourism in Clackamas County, highlighting its powerful visitor economy which generated $680 million in direct visitor spending last year. The Office of Tourism actively attends trade shows in the U.S. to meet with international tour operators and promote Oregon and Clackamas County as a destination. This strategy aims to attract both short-haul and long-haul markets, contributing significantly to the region's economy.

The Clackamas County Office of Tourism actively attends U.S. trade shows to engage with international tour operators, promoting Oregon and Clackamas County as a destination. This strategy contributes to a robust visitor economy, which generated approximately $680 million in direct visitor spending last year, supporting thousands of jobs.

The 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, hosted in Portland from March 19–21, generated an estimated $21.9 million in direct visitor spending and a $31.8 million boost in local GDP. The event drew approximately 25,000 out-of-town visitors, significantly impacting downtown hotels, restaurants, and retailers. Discussions around the Moda Center's renovation needs, the oldest NBA arena without a major upgrade, were also highlighted.

Portland's hosting of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament generated an estimated $21.9 million in direct visitor spending, contributing to a $31.8 million boost in local GDP. Additionally, the Oregon Legislature approved $365 million in bonds towards a $600 million renovation of the Moda Center, a key venue in the city.

U.S. Wheat Associates announced staff updates at its West Coast Office in Portland, including the promotion of Luke Muller to market analyst and the hiring of Kate Stephens as assistant director and Tereza Edwards as assistant program manager. Edwards brings experience in conference and event planning, strengthening the office's capabilities.

The National Flute Association (NFA) is accepting booth reservations for its 2026 Portland Convention and has launched a mentorship program. This program aims to help first-time attendees maximize their convention experience by pairing them with experienced mentors.

Smart Meetings reported on March 24, 2026, the significant impact of a former Travel Portland leader, Miller, who spent nearly two decades shaping Portland's reputation as a premier destination. His tenure saw record-breaking tourism numbers and numerous major conventions, including the creation of the city's Tourism Improvement District (TID).

The inaugural "50 Over 50" program has recognized veteran professionals in the event and meetings industry for their leadership, mentorship, and contributions. Developed in 2026 with partners like IAEE and Trade Show News Network, this program celebrates experienced individuals across various sectors of the global events industry.

Steve Cohen of Travel Portland has been elected to the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2026. This election highlights leadership changes within a key association supporting the travel and tourism industry.

Portland will host the Destinations International 2026 Annual Convention, with travel dates scheduled from July 17-27, 2026. The event will utilize hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Portland at Oregon Convention Center and Courtyard by Marriott Portland Convention Center. Shuttle services will be provided for hotels further from the convention center.

The NW Materials Show 2026 is set to take place from March 11-12, 2026, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. This event serves as a major materials and networking resource for top brands across the footwear, apparel, and tech industries.

Registration is open for the Farwest Show 2026, a wholesale nursery and greenhouse event, which will be held at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. The event includes a 3-day trade show pass and educational opportunities.

ImportExpo, an automotive brand known for car shows and motorsports events, is expanding its presence to Portland. The event will be held at the Portland Expo Center, showcasing high-quality car shows and motorsports events.

Portland has been selected as the host city for the 2026 Western Propane Trade Show & Convention, with the event scheduled to take place at the Oregon Convention Center. The Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center is offering special conference rates for attendees.

Metro is undertaking the "Expo Future" project to address the Portland Expo Center's complex history and develop a long-term plan for its financial sustainability. This initiative aims to ensure the continued viability of the Expo Center as a key regional venue.

Metro is undertaking the 'Expo Future' project to develop a long-term plan for the financial sustainability of the Portland Expo Center. This initiative aims to address the venue's complex history and ensure its future viability as a key regional asset.

Metro is undertaking the "Expo Future" project to address the complex history and ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the Portland Expo Center. This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive plan for the venue, focusing on visitor venues, equity, and economic opportunities.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the proposed $600 million funding package for renovations to the Moda Center, emphasizing the need for an upgraded, state-of-the-art arena. The Oregon state legislature has passed the renovation bill, with negotiations ongoing with Portland city council and Multnomah County leaders for a 20-year lease extension.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver visited Portland following the state legislature's approval of funds for Moda Center renovations, highlighting the arena's role as a multi-use facility for conventions, trade shows, and concerts. Silver stressed the need for a state-of-the-art arena to attract major events and support the community.