Convention centers, venues, and event suppliers across the United States close out 2025 with record attendance, major capital projects, and new industry recognition. From convention center expansions and hotel renovations to award wins and operational upgrades, the developments reflect continued domestic demand for meetings, conventions, and live events heading into 2026.
As 2025 moved into its second half, the tradeshow industry faced sharper operational pressures alongside continued innovation and growth. This second installment of Exhibit City News’ Year in Review highlights a selection of the most-read stories from Quarter 3 and Quarter 4, reflecting how workforce challenges, sustainability execution, technology adoption, and destination investment shaped the industry’s closing months.
In Memoriam: James S. Hanlon. September 14, 1960 – December 9, 2025. James S. Hanlon of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, died on December 9, 2025. He was born in Levittown, Pennsylvania.
As the tradeshow and events industry moved through 2025, Exhibit City News covered a wide range of developments shaping the year. This Year in Review highlights a selection of the most-read stories from the first half of 2025, capturing key themes in sustainability, workforce development, economic pressure, technology, and venue investment as the industry continued to evolve.
The Exhibition Services and Contractors Association (ESCA) reviewed key operational and education updates during its 2025 Virtual Town Hall, held as a member-facing business meeting separate from its annual awards program.
A look at the biggest convention-center news from November, including major awards, technology upgrades, community impact programs, and milestone developments across key U.S. regions. This month’s recap highlights how venues nationwide are investing in innovation, supporting local communities, and strengthening the meetings and hospitality industry.
Europe and the UK are advancing their leadership in global meetings and events with record-breaking attendance, major innovation initiatives and new sector-shaping conferences. From Barcelona’s AI-focused smart city and education-tech gatherings to Antwerp’s blue-economy strategy and London’s high-profile 2027 World Scout Conference win, the region is defining the next era of sustainable, knowledge-driven events.
The Best of beMatrix North America Awards recognized 13 projects during a livestream ceremony held December 17. Now in its eleventh year, the program honored work across tradeshow, retail, outdoor, experiential, and international categories.
Global business events are gaining momentum across key regions as venues, associations and destinations report strong attendance, new partnerships and sustainability gains.
Orlando tourism 2025 saw record expo growth, major attraction updates and airport expansion. See how new projects and travel demand set up a strong 2026.
ESCA gathered its community in Houston for the 2025 Winter Celebration and Awards at The Astorian, honoring leadership, innovation, service, and rising talent across the exhibition industry. The night highlighted scholarship recipients, industry award winners, and the transition to ESCA’s 2026 leadership.
Chicago tourism 2025 saw record convention turnout, rising business travel and major new attractions. Chicago tourism 2025 momentum sets the stage for a strong 2026.
