16 Event Planning Conferences To Help You Innovate In 2026
Staying on top of trends and networking with peers is essential for the success of event managers and professionals in the hospitality industry. The year 2026 offers an exciting lineup of events and hotel conferences that cater to various aspects of event management and hospitality. Each conference has its unique offerings, from innovative technology showcases to in-depth industry insights, making them valuable for anyone looking to enhance their skills and business.
Whether you're looking to enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, or stay ahead in a competitive market, these conferences have got you covered.
Best Event Planning Conferences 2026 Shortlist
Here's my shortlist of the best event planning conferences I think are worth attending in 2026:
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- EMEC 2026 - Barcelona, Spain (February 21-24, 2026)
- International Confex - London, UK (February 25-26, 2026)
- Event Production Show - London, UK (February 25-26, 2026)
- Catersource + The Special Event - Los Angeles, CA (March 2-5, 2026)
- Connect Spring Marketplace - Louisville, KY (April 14-16, 2026)
- National Planning Conference - Detroit, MI (April 25-28, 2026)
- Northwest Event Show - Seattle, WA (April 28-30, 2026)
- ECEF - Washington, DC (May 27, 2026)
- Small & Boutique Meetings — Alaska - Anchorage, Alaska (May 28-30, 2026)
- WEC - San Antonio, TX (June 2-4, 2026)
- CEMA Summit 2026 - Toronto, Canada (August 9-11, 2026)
- Canadian Meeting + Events Expo - Toronto, Canada (August 11-12, 2026)
- Event Organisers Summit - London, UK (October 12-13, 2026)
- Event Planner Expo 2026 - New York City, NY (October 13-15, 2026)
- IMEX America - Las Vegas, NV (October 13-15, 2026)
- TEAMS Conference & Expo - Birmingham, AL (October 26-29, 2026)
Best Event Planning Conferences Of 2026
Below are my summaries of the best event planning conferences on my shortlist. My reviews look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.
1. EMEC 2026 - Barcelona, Spain (February 21-24, 2026)
- Dates: February 21-24, 2026
- Location: Barcelona, Spain
- Pricing: Starts at €465
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
EMEC is an annual conference organised by Meeting Professionals International (MPI) that serves event planners, meeting strategists, and industry suppliers. It’s designed for senior-level professionals seeking innovative solutions and meaningful networking opportunities. Attendees connect to learn and share best practices in event design, strategy, and innovation.
Why attend? Attending EMEC provides teams with a rare opportunity to engage with a broad community of peers who are tackling similar challenges in event planning, particularly in relation to new formats and tools. The conference emphasises how to harness evolving technology, adapt to shifting attendee expectations, and craft meaningful experiences.
With sessions, labs, and site visits, you’ll see new ideas in action, meet influential suppliers, and return with concepts ready to apply. The setting in Barcelona adds creative energy and global relevance for anyone eager to advance their role in shaping the future of events.
2. International Confex - London, UK (February 25-26, 2026)
- Dates: February 25-26, 2026
- Location: ExCeL London
- Pricing: Free
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
International Confex is an event planning conference tailored for business owners and industry professionals who manage large‑scale events, meetings, and exhibitions. It delivers a comprehensive programme that explores creativity, technology, sustainability, and leadership in the event sector.
Why attend? Attending International Confex gives your team direct access to hundreds of suppliers, venues, and event technology platforms in one place, allowing you to make meaningful connections and compare solutions side by side. The agenda includes key sessions on how to optimise event design, adopt digital tools, and stay ahead in the evolving marketplace—helping you bring back actionable ideas to your organisation.
3. Event Production Show - London, UK (February 25-26, 2026)
- Dates: February 25-26, 2026
- Location: ExCeL London
- Pricing: Free
- Social Media: Instagram
Event Production Show is the UK’s longest‑running event planning conference dedicated to live experiences, extending over 35 years and organised for event professionals and their teams. It centres on seminars and sessions that capture event trends and advances in technology, helping you and your team stay informed about what’s coming next.
With a strong focus on outdoor, festival, sport, and cultural events, the programme brings together speeches, workshops, and a huge exhibition floor for networking.
Why attend? If you're in the live event sector, EPS is a must-attend. It’s a hub for learning about the latest trends and technologies. With over 200 exhibitors and 100 speakers, you’ll find valuable networking opportunities and insights. The event covers a wide range of topics, ensuring there's something for everyone in your team.
4. Catersource + The Special Event - Los Angeles, CA (March 2-5, 2026)
- Dates: March 2-5, 2026
- Location: Los Angeles Convention Center
- Pricing: Starts at $845-$1,495
- Social Media: LinkedIn
CS + TSE is a premier event planning conference designed for catering and event professionals seeking advanced insights and networking opportunities in the industry. It brings together business owners, industry professionals, and creative experts to explore trends in catering, design, operations, and planning. The event’s educational programming encompasses multiple tracks, including event planning, production, and innovations in service delivery.
Why attend? If you attend this conference, your team will gain exposure to live demonstrations, interactive sessions, and an extensive tradeshow floor offering new perspectives on event strategy and design. This show stands out because it merges catering excellence with event production, showing you applied solutions rather than generic theory, and giving your team practical takeaways for upcoming projects.
5. Connect Spring Marketplace - Louisville, KY (April 14-16, 2026)
- Dates: April 14-16, 2026
- Location: Kentucky International Convention Center
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
Connect Spring Marketplace is a three-day conference designed for professionals in meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions who want meaningful connections and high‑impact work. It gathers business owners and industry professionals to engage in scheduled one‑on‑one appointments, attend education sessions, and explore emerging formats in event planning.
The event utilizes a reverse-style marketplace structure and aims to facilitate key business conversations between suppliers and buyers.
"My experience was phenomenal, and I made many quality contacts while at the event. My partner and I will build some great partnerships from the connections we made at Connect. Thank you!"
- Jessica Dew, CEO & Experience Planner at Wealth Evolved Consulting
Why attend? Your team will benefit from guaranteed meetings and educational segments that encourage productive chat with peers, clients, and partners. The format prioritizes efficiency and relevance, so you won’t waste time chasing leads. You’ll leave with tangible progress on future bookings and strategic planning.
6. National Planning Conference - Detroit, MI (April 25-28, 2026)
- Dates: April 25-28, 2026
- Location: Huntington Place Convention Center & Virtual
- Pricing: From $135 (member)-$1,275 (non-member)
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
NPC is a major event planning conference for urban planners, event professionals, policymakers, and industry suppliers, focusing on shaping community development and events within those communities. Hosted by the American Planning Association (APA), the conference includes sponsorship opportunities and draws professionals from across the country.
The programme features tracks on emerging technology, housing, the environment, and inclusive planning, reflecting how event planning intersects with broader planning challenges.
Why attend? Attending the NPC provides an opportunity to engage with experts who tackle the intersection of event planning and urban design, gaining insights into how planning principles apply to large-scale gatherings and public experiences. The format offers robust sessions and networking designed to build your professional network, help you test ideas, and prepare for real‑world scenarios.
7. Northwest Event Show - Seattle, WA (April 28-30, 2026)
- Dates: April 28-30, 2026
- Location: Seattle Convention Center
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The Northwest Event Show is an annual event planning conference aimed at professionals in meetings, events, and hospitality across the Pacific Northwest. It has become a prominent platform for event planners, venue operators, and suppliers to connect, share insights, and explore new ideas.
The show has highlighted on-site experience and focused on emerging event trends to support teams in keeping pace with change.
Why attend? By attending the Northwest Event Show, you and your team will benefit from face-to-face networking, real supplier engagement, and hands-on demonstrations that encourage genuine human-to-human connections in a setting designed to inspire creativity. The show emphasizes practical sessions rather than purely theoretical ones, providing attendees with actionable ideas that can be applied directly to live events.
8. ECEF - Washington, DC (May 27, 2026)
- Dates: May 27, 2026
- Location: Grand Hyatt Washington
- Pricing: $895
ECEF is a one-day event for senior-level executives in the exhibition and convention industry. It offers a platform for leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the industry. Notable guest speakers have included top executives and industry influencers who bring valuable insights and strategies.
Why attend? ECEF is designed for industry leaders looking to share knowledge and explore new ideas in a focused environment. It's a unique opportunity for you and your team to engage with peers and gain insights into the future of exhibitions. With its emphasis on executive-level discussions, the event provides a deeper understanding of industry trends and challenges.
9. Small & Boutique Meetings — Alaska - Anchorage, Alaska (May 28-30, 2026)
- Dates: May 28-30, 2026
- Location: Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
Small & Boutique Meetings — Alaska is an intimate event designed for meeting professionals managing smaller‑scale and niche events. It gathers qualified planners and relevant suppliers into a tight forum for one‑on‑one meetings and education.
Prior versions of the event have welcomed exhibitors such as the Branson Convention Center, Cedar Rapids Tourism, and Hilton Sedona at Bell Rock.
Why attend? This event provides a platform for you and your team to access a curated selection of suppliers that specialise in smaller group meetings, making each connection more relevant and efficient. The format emphasises meaningful interactions rather than broad expo browsing, enabling deeper conversation, negotiation, and insight. It’s an opportunity to explore boutique meeting strategies, leverage the hosted buyer setup, and leave with actionable plans tailored to your event scale.
10. WEC - San Antonio, TX (June 2-4, 2026)
- Dates: June 2-4, 2026
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Pricing: Starts at $720
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
WEC is a flagship event designed to empower professionals in the meetings and events industry. Since its inception, it has served as a hub for innovation and networking, featuring speakers like industry leaders and innovators. The event focuses on providing strategic skills and meaningful connections.
Why attend? WEC 2026 offers a unique opportunity for you and your team to gain valuable insights into the future of meetings and events. With its diverse range of sessions, WEC helps you explore new trends and technologies. It’s an ideal setting to connect with peers and leaders, enhancing your professional network and skills.
11. CEMA Summit 2026 - Toronto, Canada (August 9-11, 2026)
CEMA Summit 2026 is a prominent event planning conference designed for event marketers and meeting professionals seeking to build a successful event roadmap. Hosted by the Corporate Event Marketing Association, this conference brings together business owners and industry professionals from around the globe.
The agenda features sessions on branding, team strategy, and experiential design to address current challenges in the event marketing industry.
Why attend? Attending the CEMA Summit 2026 gives your team access to advanced education sessions and peer-led forums that help sharpen your planning, design, and execution skills. It emphasizes strategic thinking, emerging models, and real‑world examples of major events, so you’ll return with fresh ideas and a network of experienced peers. The setting in Toronto also adds a global touch, allowing you to connect beyond your usual regional circle.
12. Canadian Meeting + Events Expo - Toronto, Canada (August 11-12, 2026)
- Dates: August 11-12, 2026
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
- Pricing: Free (online registration required)
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
The Canadian Meeting + Events Expo is an event planning conference designed for meeting professionals in Canada and abroad, focusing on venue sourcing, supplier partnerships, and event execution. For over 30 years, it has been offering professional development through education sessions and CE credits. This in‑person tradeshow format connects leading venue representatives, service providers, and corporate planners.
Why attend? By attending the Canadian Meeting + Events Expo, your team will benefit from direct access to hundreds of exhibitors and structured education designed to keep your meetings fresh and on track. You’ll find marketplace-style networking, live demos, and themed areas that make finding new ideas easier.
With a focus on sourcing and services within the Canadian market, this expo also provides valuable insights into international event-planning dynamics.
13. Event Organisers Summit - London, UK (October 12-13, 2026)
- Dates: October 5-6, 2026
- Location: Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre London Heathrow & Virtual
- Pricing: Free (for qualified attendees)
- Social Media: LinkedIn
The Event Organisers Summit is a focused event for professionals in the event planning industry, designed to facilitate meaningful connections through pre-arranged meetings. This summit provides networking opportunities and offers valuable insights from industry experts. It’s an ideal setting for event organizers looking to enhance their skills and business strategies.
Why attend? Attending the Event Organisers Summit allows you and your team to engage in productive, one-on-one meetings with suppliers and peers. The summit focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation in event planning. It provides a platform to explore new ideas and solutions, making it a valuable experience for anyone in the industry.
14. Event Planner Expo 2026 - New York City, NY (October 13-15, 2026)
- Dates: October 13-15, 2026
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: From $71.21
The Event Planner Expo 2026 is a premier conference for planners, marketers, and business owners seeking to enhance their skills and expand their professional connections. It attracts top industry leaders and influencers.
Notable keynote speakers have included high-profile entrepreneurs and event experts, such as Gary Vaynerchuk and Barbara Corcoran, who provide valuable insights into the latest trends and strategies.
Event Planner Expo 2026: Conference Locations
| Location | Date |
| LAVAN Midtown | October 13, 2026 |
| 92NY | October 14, 2026 |
| Metropolitan Pavilion | October 15, 2026 |
Why attend? You and your team will connect with hundreds of exhibitors and attend sessions built to elevate your next event. These sessions feature interactive formats, networking lounges, and focused discussions that provide practical strategies and clear execution takeaways.
This gathering allows you to build relationships, share insights, and expand your expertise through immersive conversations and peer connections.
15. IMEX America - Las Vegas, NV (October 13-15, 2026)
- Dates: October 13-15, 2026
- Location: Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
- Pricing: Free
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
IMEX America is one of the largest trade shows for the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry. It offers a platform for professionals to connect, learn, and do business. The event features a range of educational sessions and networking opportunities, together with industry leaders and innovators who share insights on the latest trends and developments.
Why attend? This award-winning show is a must for anyone looking to stay ahead in the meetings and events industry. You and your team will benefit from the expansive trade show floor, educational sessions, and opportunities to network with global industry leaders. The event's focus on innovation and sustainability makes it a unique gathering for professionals aiming to enhance their skills and business strategies.
16. TEAMS Conference & Expo - Birmingham, AL (October 26-29, 2026)
- Dates: October 26-29, 2026
- Location: Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The TEAMS Conference & Expo is the premier event for the sports and entertainment industry, bringing together over 1,300 participants from various sectors. It offers opportunities for networking, one-on-one appointments, and exploring new sponsorships and partnerships. The event focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with maintaining high health and safety standards.
Why attend? If you and your team are involved in the sports-event industry, this in-person event is a must-attend. It offers a unique platform to connect with industry leaders and explore new opportunities. The event emphasizes innovation and collaboration, providing a space to discover the latest trends and strategies in sports-event management.
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