Posted on 15, January, 2019
Last Modified on 17, January, 2019
In 2019, the modern trade show is about more than just discovering the latest products and services in your industry — it’s about networking, learning, innovating, growing together, and above all, familiarizing the public with your brand. If you want to stay ahead of the curve then your business should consider exhibiting or attending a trade show this year.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the largest and most popular trade shows in the United States, so you can get prepared for your upcoming events. The conference dates, locations, and summaries will give you the information you need to decide which expos present the right opportunity for you and your business. And even if it’s too late to register, there’s never a better time to start planning for next year.
Technology
OTC: Offshore Technology Conference
May 6-9, 2019 | Houston, TX
For 50 years, the world’s energy professionals have been drawn to the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) to discuss innovative ideas and solutions for offshore technology and environmental matters. Gain access to leading industry knowledge, discover advanced equipment, and connect with other industry professionals.
Arts & Entertainment
Imaging USA - The Show for Real Professional Photographers
January 17-22, 2019 | Atlanta, GA
Imaging USA is way more than just a trade show. It’s an opportunity for professional photographers to learn, connect, and be inspired. This year, attendees will learn how to “Bridge the Gap” between Photographers and Consumers and engage with over one hundred product distributors and service providers to experience what’s next in the world of photography.
Surtex - Art Licensing for Designers, Manufacturers, and Retailers
February 3-6, 2019 | New York, NY
If you’re an artist or you need to license prints and patterns for your products, then Surtex is the trade show for you. It is one of the largest and most influential trade shows where art and consumer products meet. Every year, retailers and manufacturers come to source surface and textile designs for new and upcoming products in every category imaginable. Attend this year’s event in New York!
SXSW Music, Film Interactive
March 8-17, 2019 | Austin, TX
South By Southwest, aka SXSW, is all about music, film, and interactive marketing. This may be the most diverse trade show in the world, with its wide range of famous music artists, big brand speakers, and films for the emerging market. The shows interactive sessions are popular with the start-up industry, as well as advertising and online companies. Do not miss this year's show!
Comic Con International: San Diego
March 29-31, 2019 | San Diego, CA
This iconic event claims the throne as the largest comic book trade show in world! With attendance topping 130,000, enthusiasts flock to San Diego each year to celebrate their passion for all things animation; including everything from comics, movies, science fiction and fantasy literature. If you’re looking to meet your favorite fiction character in real life chances are, they’ll be at Comic Con.
Retail
NRF 2019: Retail’s Big Show
January 13-15, 2019 | New York, NY
Learn how the big players from all industries are transforming the retail experience at NRF 2019: Retail’s Big Show. You won’t want to miss this year’s featured speakers: Chip and Joanna Gaines, co-founders of home and lifestyle brand Magnolia, and stars of HGTV’s Fixer Upper.
MAGIC Marketplace - Winter
February 5-7, 2019 | Las Vegas, NV
Discover the MAGIC of clothing at the most comprehensive fashion event in the United States. See the latest trends in apparel for men, women, and children before they hit the main streets. With multiple shows targeting different industries and styles, you’re take something valuable away at MAGIC’s marketplace.
Atlanta Spring Gift, Home Furnishings & Holiday Market 2019
March 13-15, 2019 | Atlanta, GA
If you are in the home furnishing or gift industry, this is the one trade show you’ll want to attend. Gain access to a network of specialty retailers, designers, and distributors and learn from great minds in your industry.
IRCE: Internet Retailer Conference and Exhibition @ RetailX
June 25-28, 2019 | Chicago, IL
IRCE @ RetailX addresses the ever changing landscape of retail and e-commerce. See how brands are competing online and creating improved experiences for their customers in and outside of their brick-and-mortar stores. Discover innovative solutions that are transforming the way we connect with our customers and process orders online.
Agriculture
The Big E. Eastern States Exposition
September 13-29, 2019 | West Springfield, MA
Sample the best of New England agriculture and entertainment at the Big E. Eastern States Exposition in Massachusetts. In addition to fair staples like Vermont Maple Syrup, The Big E. adds new exhibitors each year with unique local products.
Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition
October 15-17, 2019 | Moultrie, GA
Originating in 1964, this exposition is now known as “North America’s Premier Farm Show”. Whether farming is your livelihood or a hobby, this event hosts over 1,000 exhibitors to find every product or service imaginable needed to manage a farm. With a unique indoor and outdoor set up, you can attend a seminar in the exhibit area and then take a tram to the 600-acre working research farm for demonstrations to learn the latest in farming technology!
Automotive
The SEMA Show
November 5-8, 2019 | Las Vegas, NV
Hosted in the Las Vegas Convention Center, SEMA focuses on the hottest new products in the automotive industry. Drawing a crowd of more than 135,000 attendees with 70,000 domestic and international buyers, this is the premier automotive speciality products trade event for all manner of auto enthusiasts.
AAPEX – Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo
November 5-7, 2019 | Las Vegas, NV
APPEX brings together over 2,000 exhibitors and 175,000 attendees in the global automotive aftermarket industry, making it the top automotive event in the world. The Las Vegas event kicks off with keynote speaker John King, Chief National Correspondent of CNN’s Inside Politics, speaking on upcoming elections and the effects of possible outcomes.
Hospitality
National Restaurant Association Show (Celebrating 100 Years)
May 18-21, 2019 | Chicago, IL
National Restaurant Association has hosted the restaurant industry’s event of the year for a centennial! How do they do it? With the right ingredients, of course! Experience the best of food and beverage, restaurant supplies, and cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of the international food marketplace. Learn from culinary experts and leaders at demos and keynote presentations to inspire your business’s growth.
Religious
WFX Conference & Expo
September 17-18 | Orlando, FL
The WFX Conference & Expo is a three day event for church leaders and professionals to solve the biggest problems that churches face today. Attendees gain access to practical training from ministry experts, exchange best practices with other church leaders, and discover products, services, and solutions from vendors for today’s problems.