Chicago closed 2025 with a steady flow of convention, consumer, and civic developments that point to a busy year ahead. New data ranks the city third nationally for scheduled business conferences in 2026, while flagship events including the Chicago Auto Show, Cubs Convention, and Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show set dates and unveiled new programming.
The Experiential Design Authority (EDA) is proud to unveil the esteemed final judging panel for the CES 2026 BOSS (Best of Show & Strategy) Awards. The BOSS Awards celebrate groundbreaking innovation, creativity, and excellence in experiential design, recognizing the most impactful projects showcased at CES each year.
As 2026 begins, the tradeshow and events industry is looking toward a year of careful planning and cautious optimism. Economic growth has slowed, costs remain high, and policy uncertainty continues to weigh on travel and investment decisions.
Las Vegas concluded December with multiple large-scale conventions, tradeshows, and consumer events across the Las Vegas Convention Center and Strip-area venues. Activity included technology, design, and sports-related exhibitions, while organizers opened registration for several major 2026 shows.
Retirement. It’s a concept I have spent very little time thinking about… until the last six months.
If you had asked me six months ago when I was going to retire from this industry I would have asked you why I should do that when I still really enjoy what I am doing.
On Location, a nationwide provider of labor and management services for exhibits, events, activations, and branded environments, proudly announces that Ty Macaulay, Director of National Operations, has been named an EDPA Future Leader by the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA).
Ivette Flower brings more than 25 years of sales leadership experience and a lifelong love of the organized chaos that defines the tradeshow industry. Somehow, she always finds her way back to the tradeshow world. With over 10 years as a Senior Account Executive at Skyline Exhibits in the San Diego and Denver markets, Ivette consistently proved herself as a top performer, earning multiple Presidents Circle honors along the way.
Smart, easy money was made on Taylor Swift’s 2024 Eras concert tour that packed stadiums with thousands of “Swifties” and brought $2 billion in revenue, opening investors’ eyes to lucrative opportunities in live events.
Venues and destinations across Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and the Middle East close out 2025 with strong results and forward-looking commitments. From record revenues and major capital investments to expanded exhibition footprints and new association partnerships, operators are positioning for sustained demand in meetings, conventions, and live events.
I am pleased to announce that the Quarter 1 2026 issue for Exhibit City News is officially live. You can access the edition by the link on our homepage or here. For those of you who will receive our physical print, look forward to it in the coming weeks.
Org design isn’t an HR project. It’s a leadership responsibility, and most companies get it wrong.
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.
