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Leadership Professional Development

Top 60 Event Planning Conferences to Attend in 2026

By Meaghan Maybee on November 13, 2024

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Meaghan Maybee
Meaghan Maybee

As pc/nametag's in-house Word Wizard, Meaghan creates educational content that brings people together and drives meaningful conversations in the events industry.

Welcome to the BIGGEST event planning conference round-up on the internet! 😍

Attending a conference, workshop, training, seminar, or virtual event is the perfect way to gain new knowledge, meet like-minded professionals, and expose yourself to new perspectives in your field. Let’s make 2026 the year we expand our skillsets, earn continuing education credits, and prioritize our professional development goals!

Are you a meeting planner, event marketer, venue manager, supplier, buyer, or experiential events enthusiast? 👏 Attend any of the meetings, conventions, and events in our 2026 event planning conferences round-up to learn the latest trends, meet vendors, find products, gain knowledge, meet people, and network!

✍️ P.S. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to write a conference justification letter! ✍️

FREE TEMPLATE Conference Justification Letter Convince your boss to let you attend the conference of your dreams! Now available for Microsoft Word and Google Docs.  

 

Find an Event Planning Conference:

Event Planning Conferences 2026

PCMA Convening Leaders 2026

Dates: January 11-14, 2026

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

PCMA Convening Leaders 2025 is designed to help meeting and event professionals think bigger! This multi-day event features dozens of immersive, hands-on sessions, 5,000+ attendees, and plenty of unique networking experiences to help you grow your business. Join in on dynamic discussions and powerful networking, then tune in to awesome keynote speakers!

 

Independent Planner Education Conference (IPEC)

Dates: February 4-6, 2026

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Attendance Options: In-person

Hosted by Northstar Meetings Group, the Independent Planner Education Conference caters to event professionals who are not associated with any 3rd party organizations. Here, you'll find the perfect mix of education, networking, and meetings. You'll gain industry insights from guest speakers, expand your network, and meet face-to-face with top destinations, hotels, resorts, cruise lines, DMCs, DMOs, and tourism offices from around the world.

 

Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) Annual Conference

Dates: January 25 - January 27, 2026

Location: Arlington, TX

Attendance Options: In-person

Do you work for a venue, convention center, or destination marketing organization? If so, ESPA's annual conference is for you! Gather for informative breakout sessions and roundtables, tune in to awesome keynotes, and participate in engaging workshops. You'll even have the chance to tour the AT&T Stadium and visit the National Medal of Honor Museum, or you can opt to sign up to explore the Fort Worth Stockyards.

 

2026 NACE Evolve Conference

Dates: January 24-26, 2026

Location: Nashville, TN

Attendance Options: In-person

The National Association for Catering and Events puts on the NACE Evolve Conference, a 3-day event that provides valuable insights for event professionals. Participate in icebreaker activities, general sessions, workshops, happy hours, and "Ask an expert" Q&As. This year's event will focus on ways to grow your membership, improve member retention, create engaging programs, build community presence, and more.

 

National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Live

Dates: February 13-16, 2026

Location: Columbus, OH

Attendance Options: In-person

If you work in higher education, this event is for you! NACA Live draws hundreds of schools, artists, agencies, and businesses together to showcase the best innovations in campus activities. Discover inclusive learning opportunities, build connections with others, expand your professional network, and enjoy countless sessions, workshops, roundtables, and more. Plus, you can browse plenty of vendors and exhibitors in the campus activities marketplace!

 

National Sports Forum (NSF)

Dates: February 22-24, 2026

Location: St. Louis, MO

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

Calling all sports industry event professionals! The National Sports Forum (NSF) is one of the largest annual events for sports industry teams, leagues, agencies, and corporate partners (i.e. NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, etc.) Here, you'll discuss the latest trends, ideas, and innovations shaping the sports industry. Not able to travel? No worries. There's a virtual conference option! 

 

Catersource + The Special Event 2026

Dates: March 2-5, 2026

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Attendance Options: In-person

Are you a corporate planner, caterer, florist, event entertainer, rental company, or event professional? The Special Event was designed for you. Discover cutting-edge suppliers and the top industry professionals while experiencing unmatched opportunities to source, network, and learn in one place. This experience is ideal for people who want to stay competitive in their space, meet with a variety of high-caliber suppliers, make industry connections, and find business solutions that fit their needs.

 

International Confex Conference

Dates: February 25-26, 2026

Location: London, England

Attendance Options: In-person

Held annually over two days, International Confex presents a cutting-edge event featuring over 200 suppliers, venues, tech platforms, and more for event professionals of all skill levels. This year's programming features 60+ industry-leading speakers and multiple tracks including event technology, DE&I, Event Sustainability, Event Marketing Innovation, Future Event Trends, and more. Register today to gain fresh perspectives, stay ahead of the curve, and explore upcoming software releases!

Northstar Meetings Group's SMU International

Dates: March 9-11, 2026

Location: New York, NY

Attendance Options: In-person

SMU International is an elite event for North American meetings and incentive travel buyers who are focused on placing programs around the world. This year's agenda is filled with opportunities to learn from industry experts, make invaluable business connections, and experience unforgettable landmarks around New York. Connect with premier international suppliers during pre-scheduled one-on-one business appointments and unique experiential activities.

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Northwest Event Show 2026

Dates: April 28-30, 2026

Location: Seattle, WA

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

Support your event's potential at the Northwest Event Show! This gathering celebrates everything about the Pacific Northwest and adjacent areas of North America. Discover unique destinations, venues, and suppliers at 300+ booths, participate in industry discussions, network with 4000+ professionals, and learn from a variety of esteemed speakers.

 

National Planning Conference 2026

Dates: April 25-28, 2026

Location: Detroit, MI

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

The National Planning Conference (NPC26) conference is your ticket to an unforgettable experience for event professionals! Gain access to industry experts, thought leaders, and event planning professionals who all share their unique expertise and perspectives for shaping the future of planning. Core topics for the 2026 show include climate change, emerging technologies, inclusive planning for social change, and upskilling for the future.

 

Connect Spring Marketplace 2026

Dates: April 14-16, 2026

Location: Louisville, KY

Attendance Options: In-person

Connect Spring Marketplace 2026 is an experience-heavy event that draws 2000+ attendees, 1100+ hosted buyers, 200 activations, and dozens of speakers. This event is ideal for event professionals in the Association, Business Travel, Corporate, Diversity, Financial, and Incentive areas. Register now to participate in innovative educational sessions, networking opportunities, one-on-one business meetings, and an incredible trade show overflowing with the latest solutions for your events.

 

Event Tech Live

Dates: TBD

Location: TBD - East Coast Location

Attendance Options: In-person

Event Tech Live Las Vegas is the only dedicated event in the United States for event technology. Here, you'll join other event professionals to learn more about the latest advancements in event technology solutions. Exhibitors will include several big-name brands, including Bizzabo, Choose 2 Rent, Cvent, Hubilo, Kaltura, Webex Events, and more! 

 

Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum

Date: May 27, 2026

Location: Washington DC

Attendance Options: In-person

The Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum (ECEF) is a networking event for leaders at associations and independent organizers. Take advantage of event technology demos, C-level sessions, live Q&As, receptions, networking lunches, and more. Choose this event if you're looking for actionable ideas and valuable contacts to benefit your brand, events, and career.

 

Meeting Professionals International – World Education Conference 2026

Dates: June 1-4, 2026

Location: San Antonio, TX

Attendance Options: In-person

MPI-WEC (WEC26) is MPI's signature event, jam-packed with elite speakers, unmatched content, and networking opportunities like no other! This year's experience will feature a unique mix of business and leisure. You'll also encounter coaching opportunities, attendee meals, break-out sessions, and exciting activities. Get hosted, get connected, and get business done with MPI-WEC.

 

EsportsTravel Summit

Dates: June 23-26, 2026

Location: Cincinatti, OH

Attendance Options: In-person

The EsportsTravel Summit is the world’s largest gathering of esports tournament and video-game event organizers. It's also the only event focused on the travel side of the esports industry. Register for this event if you are an organizer of video game events or if you're a travel and tourism professional wanting to understand and profit from the esports industry.

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EsportsNext 2026

Dates: April 29-30, 2026

Location: Fort Worth, TX

Attendance Options: In-person

Interested in esports? EsportsNext is the event for you. This business-to-business (B2B) conference is hosted by the Esports Trade Association (ESTA) and provides a space for attendees to learn, network, and innovate. Learn from esports leaders about the latest developments in the industry, build your professional connections, learn new trends, and participate in hands-on workshops and interactive sessions.

 

Small and Boutique Meetings Event

Dates: May 28-30, 2026

Location: Anchorage, AK

Attendance Options: In-person

The Small and Boutique Meetings Event by Northstar Meetings Group is the premier hosted-buyer event designed to connect you with top suppliers and destinations in the United States and beyond. This event caters to small and boutique-sized meetings. Participate in one-on-one scheduled appointments, gain industry insights, learn from guest speakers, and more.


The Meetings Show

Dates: June 24-25, 2026

Location: London, England

Attendance Options: In-person

The Meetings Show is the UK's leading event for the MICE industry. At this event, you can look forward to meeting live with hundreds of UK hotels, destinations, destination management companies, conference centers, venues, and tech suppliers. Gain insight and inspiration from industry leaders as you attend countless networking events at the show.

 

Cvent CONNECT 2025

Dates: June 13-16, 2026

Location: Nashville, TN

Attendance Option: In-person, Virtual

Cvent CONNECT is an outstanding user conference for event, marketing, and hospitality professionals. Not only will you experience cutting-edge event technology innovation, but you'll also leave with new ideas to fuel best practices and creative strategies within your organization. This event is especially useful for Cvent users who want to learn how to streamline, scale, and automate their event programs.

 

NACE Experience Conference for Catering and Events

Dates: August 2-4, 2026

Location: New Orleans, LA

Attendance Option: In-person

The National Association for Catering & Events puts on the Experience Conference for Catering and Events, an experiential event filled with educational opportunities. Learn about the latest trends in catering and events, network with decision-makers and peers, and experience new products and services under one roof. 

 

Destination Midwest by Northstar Meetings Group

Dates: September 22-24, 2026

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Attendance Option: In-person

Destination Midwest by Northstar Meetings Group is a must-visit hosted-buyer event, featuring Midwest suppliers for meetings, events, conferences, and more. Meet with the top hotels, CVBs, DMCs, and venues from across the Midwest. Schedule one-on-one appointments, network with your industry peers, and explore Grand Rapids!

 

Canadian Meetings and Events Expo

Dates: August 11-12, 2026

Location: Toronto, Ontario

Attendance Option: In-person, Virtual

As the premier and most enduring tradeshow for meeting and event professionals, the Canadian Meetings + Events Expo (CMEExpo) provides a platform for networking with suppliers specializing in event venues, technology, décor, and beyond. Special education sessions and workshops provide insight, tips, and applicable learning experiences - including opportunities to earn continuing education credit!

 

Connect Marketplace 2026

Dates: August 24-26, 2026

Location: Tampa Bay, FL

Attendance Options: In-person

Connect Marketplace 2025 by Connect Meetings will draw 3000+ attendees, 1100+ hosted buyers, 200 exhibitors, and dozens of speakers for this year's gigantic event. Meetings and events professionals will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with industry experts, key decision-makers, and like-minded peers. Explore the interactive trade show floor, find fresh ideas, and gain the resources you need to take on the future of event planning.

FREE TOOLKIT The Ultimate Productivity Hack Toolkit for Event Profs   Learn quick tips for saving time, money, and resources as you step up your event planning productivity game!  

 

International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) Expo

Dates: TBD

Location: TBD

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

The IFEA Expo is a trade show hosted by the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA). Here, vendors and companies showcase their festival-related products and services while you discover new trends, network with peers, and learn about the latest developments in the industry. Register for this event if you are a decision-maker in the festival and event planning sector and want to explore new options for your events.

 

TEAMS ‘26 Conference and Expo

Dates: TBD

Location: TBD

Attendance Options: In-person

Labeled the "Business Development Opportunity of the Year," the TEAMS conference, presented by SportsTravel, is all about finding new host cities, venues, vendors, and sponsors for your future meetings. Find hands-on educational programming and learn industry insights from notable thought leaders in sporting events. Don’t miss your chance to network with your industry peers and talk about the future of your events!

 

Convening EMEA

Dates: January 11-14, 2026

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Attendance Options: In-person

Put on by PCMA, Convening EMEA is the annual flagship event bringing together the global business events industry. This immersive 3-day program in Europe attracts 500+ business event leaders from over 40 countries. Attend to share knowledge with peers, make meaningful connections, conduct business, get inspired, and to grow as a professional.

 

IMEX America

Dates: October 13-15, 2026

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Attendance Options: In-person

IMEX America is the largest trade show in the United States geared towards the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry. This award-winning show is FREE to attend, and the four-day program offers special education, networking, and much more. IMEX America welcomes professionals from a wide range of disciplines and sectors. Sign up today!


The Event Planner Expo 2026

Date: TBD - October

Location: New York City, NY

Attendance Options: In-person

Event planners, business owners, decision-makers, marketers, and PR professionals will love the Event Planner Expo 2026! This must-attend conference is for anyone who wants to make connections and collaborate with top owners and executives. This three-day event draws 2500+ attendees and 50+ speakers. Tune in to esteemed keynote speakers, participate in fireside chats, and more.

 

Expo! Expo! 2025 by IAEE

Dates: November 16-18, 2026

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Attendance Options: In-person

Expo! Expo! by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) brings events industry professionals together for new ideas, fresh approaches, best practices, research, trends, data, and more. Learn from a variety of experts on current topics, all in a unique learning environment that immerses attendees in the conference experience.

woman speaks with two customers at an event booth


Event Marketing Conferences 2026

Social Media Marketing World

Dates: April 28-30, 2026

Location: Anaheim, CA

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

Social Media Marketing World is all about discovering the best social media marketing strategies from the world’s top experts! At the end of this conference, you will have gained business-building ideas you can put to work for your business or clients right away. This event focuses on organic social marketing, content marketing, and paid social marketing. Choose from on-demand access, virtual access, "marketer" access, and all-access passes.


Experiential Marketing Summit 2026

Dates: May 18-20, 2026

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Attendance Options: In-person

The Experiential Marketing Summit is described as the #1 conference for brand experience creators! Traditional breakout sessions, Q&As,deep-dive workshops, power panels, and keynotes are just some of the things you'll experience here. Get senior-level perspectives on the current experiential marketing landscape, as well as mission-critical trends, best practices, and how-tos. This year's tracks include innovation, technology, women in events, diversity and inclusion, and more.

FREE GUIDE Surefire Marketing Tactics Any Team Can Use   Get a high-level crash course on the basics of different marketing concepts, lingo and tools you’ll need to be successful.  

 

MozCon 2026

Dates: TBA

Location: TBD

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

MozCon is like a summer camp for marketers! Meet in Seattle for an immersive, three-day experience of non-stuffy networking and expert sessions delivered by industry leaders in search engine optimization, search marketing, mobile, conversion optimization, local search, and more. Delve into strategies from industry experts as you network with peers who also love marketing.

 

Corporate Event Marketing Association Summit 2026

Dates: August 9-11, 2026

Location: Toronto, Ontario

Attendance Options: In-person

The Corporate Event Marketing Association Summit (CEMA), powered by PCMA, includes countless speakers, workshops, networking activities, and breakout sessions for event marketing professionals. This comprehensive gathering is a must-attend summit for learning best practices, discovering new solutions, and remaining competitive as a marketing professional.

HubSpot's INBOUND 2026

Dates: September 16-18, 2026

Location: Boston, MA

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

INBOUND by HubSpot is an immersive experience meant to expand your perspective on marketing, sales, technology, and more. Highlights include attending educational sessions and workshops led by industry experts, gaining new skills and knowledge, hearing inspirational speeches by world leaders and celebrities, connecting with business leaders, developing partnerships, and more!


Content Marketing World 2026

Dates: October 5-7, 2026

Location: Denver, CO

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

Sharing experiences, connecting community, and creating partnerships: That is what Content Marketing World is all about! This conference boasts 100+ sessions, workshops, and industry forums presented by leading brand marketers and experts from around the world. Networking time and fun events are planned so you connect with fellow attendees before, during, and after the event.

 

Ahrefs Evolve

Dates: October 14-15, 2026

Location: San Diego, CA

Attendance Options: In-person

Ahrefs Evolve is Ahrefs’ flagship conference. It is two days filled with strategies, sessions and conversations with Marketing thought leaders about the future of Marketing. Marketers, SEOs, content folks, agency teams, content creators and decision-makers (who want to scale their brand’s visibility and performance) come to learn about useful tactics, share insights and network.

 

Guru Email Marketing Conference 2026

Dates: TBD (Fall?)

Location: Online

Attendance Options: Virtual

FREE event alert! The Guru Email Marketing Conference is perfect for event marketers looking to up their email game. Get actionable advice and strategies you can deploy same-day, backed by real-time data. You'll find the latest digital trends, email best practices, and emerging tools you’ll need to boost your email marketing performance today.

a small group of business executives attend a leadership conference

 

Venue Management Conferences 2026

GUESTX 2026 by IAVM

Dates: January 25-27, 2026

Location: Columbus, OH

Attendance Options: In-person

The International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) hosts GuestX, a one-of-a-kind conference on crafting safe, exceptional, and memorable guest experiences. Not only will you gain invaluable insight from skills-based workshops and networking sessions, but you will also learn how every aspect of your operation impacts your venue’s ROI. This event is geared toward sports, arts, conference, and meeting industry professionals.

 

Academy of Venue Safety and Security

Dates: March 15-19, 2026

Location: Kansas City, MO

Attendance Options: In-person

The Academy of Venue Safety and Security (AVSS) is the perfect place to improve your fundamental safety and security knowledge! Learn from leading experts while you network with other venue and event managers, security professionals, and other key personnel. You will come away with valuable resources that will strengthen your personal knowledge of venue safety and security.


Venue Management School and Graduate Institute

Dates: June 6-11, 2026

Location: Palm Springs, CA

Attendance Options: In-person

Venue managers shouldn't miss the Venue Management School (VMS) and the Graduate Institute (VMS-GI), two of the best professional education programs available within the field. Whether you are new to the industry or looking to expand your knowledge, you'll learn solid principles and practices to take back to your venue. You'll also expand your management and leadership skills by attending the Graduate Institute.


IAVM's VenueConnect 2026

Dates: August 9-12, 2026

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Attendance Options: In-person

VenueConnect hosts professionals from arenas, convention centers, amphitheaters, fairgrounds, performing arts centers, stadiums, universities, and more. Get ready for tailored education sessions developed to help you increase revenue, reduce expenses, enhance event safety and event security, boost event marketing, host inclusive events, and more.

a room of conference attendees listen to a keynote speaker

 

Diversity and Inclusion Conferences 2026

Creating Change Conference

Dates: January 21-25, 2026

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Attendance Options: In-person

Sign up for a leadership and skills-building conference geared toward the LGBTQ+ movement! This conference explores discrimination, overcoming barriers to the LGBTQ+ community, basic human rights, and more. The Creating Change conference offers financial assistance for those needing reduced ticket pricing.

 

National Diversity & Leadership Conference

Dates: April 14-16, 2026

Location: Online

Attendance Options: Virtual

You don’t want to miss the Diversity & Leadership Conference! Listen to internationally renowned speakers who share their experience with various diversity and inclusion topics that you can apply to your personal and professional life. This conference focuses on panel discussions and workshops, networking activities, and leadership development tips for creating a better workplace.

FREE CHECKLIST! 50+ Inclusive Event Ideas   Make every attendee feel welcome at your events with dozens of tips and strategies.  

 

 

Inclusion 2026

Dates: TBD

Location: TBD

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

This diversity and inclusion event, hosted by SHRM, touts 4 days filled with 100+ sessions, 100+ speakers, and more than 2,400+ attendees passionate about creating welcoming environments. Learn tools, best practices, and actionable solutions to build positive and inclusive cultures in your workplace. This conference features a virtual pass for those who cannot attend live.

 

Global Inclusion 2025

Dates: March 25-27, 2026

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Attendance Options: In-person

This annual conference by Diversity Abroad is regarded as one of the most comprehensive forums for education professionals, student leaders, and industry stakeholders committed to leveraging equitable access to global education. This year's conference will be an opportunity for you to share innovations, build community, and collaborate to make progress toward a more equitable future.

FREE HANDBOOK The Event Professional's DEI Handbook   Get definitions, best practices, and downloadable resources for hosting events that are welcoming and inclusive to everyone.  


Sustainable Events Conferences 2026

GreenBiz ‘26

Dates: February 17-19, 2026

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Attendance Options: In-person

Want to attend the premiere annual event for sustainable business leaders? Join 2,500+ sustainable business leaders and hear from 200+ speakers at GreenBiz 2026. Harness the knowledge of experts, peers, and new voices in the industry. This conference will cover how to achieve net zero, advance the circular economy, elevate social justice, safeguard biodiversity, build resilient supply chains, and more.


Sustainability LIVE Middle East Summit

Dates: February 3-4, 2026

Location: Online

Attendance Options: Virtual

Sustainability LIVE Middle East Summit 2026 is set to be a premier gathering for leaders, innovators, and changemakers committed to driving sustainable practices across industries. This event will bring together experts from sectors such as energy, technology, and environmental stewardship to share insights, strategies, and innovations shaping a greener future. Through keynote sessions, interactive panels, and hands-on workshops, attendees will gain actionable tools and inspiration to accelerate their own sustainability initiatives.

FREE GUIDE The Planner's Guide to Hosting Sustainable Events   Discover the latest industry best practices for reducing waste, creating eco-friendly strategies, and engaging attendees in sustainability!   

 

Top Leadership Conferences 2026

Women of Power Summit

Date: March 11-15, 2026

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Attendance Options: In-person

Since 2006, the Women of Power Summit has been the premier professional development event for executive women of color. This four-day gathering fosters inspiration, connection, and empowerment, featuring impactful sessions, networking, and workshops designed to elevate careers and celebrate achievements.

 

The Signature CEO Conference

Dates: March 17-19, 2026

Location: Tysons Corner, VA

Attendance Options: In-person

The Signature CEO Conference is designed to support seasoned professionals and emerging entrepreneurs looking to cultivate their CEO mindset. Here, you'll encounter an empowering, motivating, and judgment-free atmosphere where you'll ignite your business acumen and leadership skills.


Women's Leadership Conference

Date: March 13, 2026

Location: New Orleans, LA

Attendance Options: In-person

Connect with hundreds of business-oriented women at this exciting annual conference. You will have the opportunity to accelerate your professional development, listen to two keynotes, attend multiple breakout sessions, and participate in all-inclusive professional development activities.

 

The Purpose Summit

Date: October 19-21, 2026

Location: Atlanta, GA

Attendance Options: In-person

The Purpose Summit is a must for anyone looking for a transformative leadership experience. Find your purpose and passion among other people-focused and purpose-driven organizations, and use your skills as a force for good in the world. This event boasts 500+ attendees, with half of them being senior-level and another 25% being C-suite leaders. This year's event features an impressive line-up of speakers!

FREE GUIDE 5 Strategies Every Project Manager Should Know   Find top tips for managing your time, staying on top of your to-do list,, and delivering projects you and your team can be proud of!

 

Global Leadership Conference 2026 (GLS26)

Date: August 6-7, 2026

Location: 400+ Participating host sites and online!

Attendance Options: In-person, Virtual

The Global Leadership Summit is the main event by the Global Leadership Network, a non-profit ministry. Learn from top-rated speakers, get actionable insights, engage in group discussions, participate in fun activities, and more. This summit is unique, as it will take place on August 6 and 7 in the United States and Canada at 400+ host site venues (and online). 

 

Women in Tourism and Hospitality 2026

Dates: TBD

Location: San Diego, California

Attendance Options: In-person

The Women in Tourism and Hospitality (WITH) National Conference will host its fourth annual gathering in San Diego in 2026. Presented by MCCSN, this conference takes place during Women's History Month and is the premier women's conference of its kind in the western United States.

This conference offers opportunities for motivation, inspiration, networking, professional development, and celebration. The conference brings together over 300 hospitality professionals from all facets of the industry, including influential leaders, decision-makers, planners, entrepreneurs, and students. 

colorful 80s themed VIP party badges at a conference

 

Meetings, Travel, and Incentives Conferences 2026

ADMEI Annual Conference

Dates: March 1-3, 2026

Location: Heredia, Costa Rica

Attendance Options: In-person

Destination management company (DMC) owners, general managers, sales, and operations staff from around the world will gather in 2026 for a variety of great programming. In-person networking events, tailored education, and an awards program are just some of the great experiences you'll have here. You're bound to find a speaker, panelist, and evening event to love here!


Global Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (GMITE) 2025

Dates: TBD

Location: TBD

Attendance Options: In-person

GMITE has connected meeting and incentive travel buyers with global suppliers for years. This is the MICE industry's only one-to-one event held in private suites. Here, you'll gain access to productive one-to-one meetings tailored to specific business objectives. This appointment-based event caters exclusively to the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events market.


Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Convention

Dates: August 3-5, 2026

Location: Chicago, IL

Attendance Options: In-person

The GBTA Convention returns for its 57th year in 2026! As the global business travel event of the year, GBTA caters to travel buyers, suppliers, business travelers, and others for multiple days of networking. This year's event will cover curated topics, include insightful speakers, and feature leading experts on what matters most. You'll come away with valuable tools, research, data, and resources you need to navigate the road ahead.

 

Incentive, Business Travel, and Meetings (IBTM) Americas

Dates: August 19-20, 2026

Location: Mexico City, Mexico

Attendance Options: In-person

The Incentive, Business Travel, and Meetings (IBTM) Americas conference brings planners together to do business, network, engage, and inspire one another. This event draws over 400 suppliers to help you get inspired and create new connections. This two-day event is filled with exciting activities and unlimited chances to create business networks with other planners and MICE professionals.

conference attendees outside on a beach at night at an all inclusive resort

 

Mastering Your Creativity: Discovering Breakthrough Solutions Fast

Dates: TBD

Location: Roycroft Campus - East Aurora, NY

Attendance Options: In-person

The "Mastering Your Creativity: Discovering Breakthrough Solutions Fast" course, led by Dr. Roger Firestien teaches participants how to unlock their creativity on demand using a well-researched, repeatable process. Attendees will work on personal goals, generate numerous ideas quickly, and develop actionable plans. The course includes comprehensive materials, access to online resources, and a certificate upon completion. The experience is designed for a small group, ensuring personalized attention.

Download Your Conference Justification Letter Template ✉️

If you are interested in attending a conference but need to get your boss on board first, consider writing an attendee justification letter. Your persuasive writing skills could help convince your manager of the value and rewards you will gain from attending the seminar.

Event planning professionals and attendees alike can use the following letter layout to improve their chances of attending (or creating) a successful event that draws a wide variety of audiences.

FREE TEMPLATE Conference Justification Letter Convince your boss to let you attend the conference of your dreams! Now available for Microsoft Word and Google Docs.  

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