Trade Show News

Philadelphia hotels are expressing concern that the upcoming FIFA World Cup may not deliver the projected economic impact due to lower-than-expected bookings, with FIFA reportedly canceling approximately 2,000 hotel reservations in Center City.

Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood is experiencing a revival with new hotels and event venues, including Riversuites at The Battery and Switch House Hotel. These developments enhance the city's capacity to host groups and events, blending historic elements with modern amenities.

Leaders from Philadelphia's hospitality industry, including the PHLCVB and Pennsylvania Convention Center, sent a letter to City Council opposing Mayor Parker's proposed 2% hotel tax increase. They argue it would make Philadelphia the highest-taxed major city on the East Coast, impacting its competitive advantage.

Leaders of Philadelphia's hospitality industry, including the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association and the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, have opposed Mayor Cherelle Parker's proposed 2% hotel tax increase. They argue that raising the tax to 10.5% (17.5% total with state tax) would make Philadelphia the highest-taxed major city on the East Coast, potentially harming its competitive advantage for attracting conventions and tourism. This marks a significant break from past consensus on hotel tax changes.

JourneyLabel announced a partnership with the PHLCVB and The Countryside of Philadelphia to promote the region as a multi-layered travel destination. This collaboration aims to highlight Philadelphia's vibrant city life and tranquil countryside, especially as the city prepares for its 250th anniversary and major global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026.

PCMA's Greater Philadelphia Chapter is hosting its Global Meetings Industry Day celebration on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at CYTO | PHL. The event, themed 'Know Your Risk: Designing Smarter Events in an Uncertain World,' will bring together meeting and event professionals for educational sessions and networking.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) has finalized its acquisition of Exhibitor Group, detailing the integration and merging of their main events. This strategic move is expected to impact the exhibitions and events industry by consolidating resources and enhancing offerings for professionals.

A focus group session held during PCMA Convening Leaders 2026 in Philadelphia brought to light the significant complexities and challenges faced by medical meeting planners. Discussions centered on international compliance and the need for clearer resources in this highly regulated industry sector.

Sadie Noland, a marketing & sales specialist, was recognized as a member of PCMA's 20 in Their Twenties class of 2026 at PCMA Convening Leaders 2026 in Philadelphia. The article highlights her insights on balancing hybrid and in-person event formats and the strategic use of AI in the events industry. Noland emphasizes curiosity and continuous learning as key to success for event professionals.

Norman U. Cohn, the innovative chair emeritus of the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) and a prominent figure in Philadelphia business, died at 93. He was known for organizing popular trade shows for ASI members.

The Wicked Gluten Free Expo is set to bring over 100 exhibitors, cooking demonstrations, and allergen-friendly products to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks on Saturday, July 18. The event will feature free food samples, prepared food vendors, and food trucks.

RISKWORLD 2026, hosted by the Risk & Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS), is taking place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in May 2026. This major conference focuses on risk management and insurance industry trends.

The NACUFS 2026 Spring Conference Showcase in Philadelphia, held on March 19, 2026, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, served as a collaborative marketplace for the campus dining industry. The event focused on discovery, networking, and discussions to advance the future of campus dining.

Thy Geekdom Con is set to return to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks over Memorial Day weekend, from May 22-24, bringing three days of anime, gaming, and cosplay. The event will span over 175,000 square feet across multiple halls, featuring voice actors, live events, and tournaments. This convention offers a significant draw for fans of pop culture and related industries.

Thy Geekdom Con returns to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks over Memorial Day weekend, bringing three days of anime, gaming, and cosplay. The event spans over 175,000 square feet across multiple halls and features a large vendor hall.

The Pennsylvania Convention Center has implemented a new 150-screen digital network, transforming the attendee experience with vibrant visuals, wayfinding, and real-time messaging. This digital transformation, managed by Xpodigital, is seen as a significant upgrade and a business tool that offers new revenue opportunities for organizers, exhibitors, and sponsors. The shift from static signs to dynamic digital systems is becoming an expectation in convention centers nationwide.

Democratic National Committee officials arrived in Philadelphia for a three-day evaluation of the city's proposal to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention. The delegation is assessing hotel capacity, fundraising capabilities, and venue readiness, with Xfinity Mobile Arena as the potential main site. Philadelphia's bid is supported by a coalition called “Pick Pennsylvania,” working with Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.

Philadelphia is actively bidding to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, with city leaders recently wooing a delegation from the Democratic National Committee. Mayor Cherelle Parker and other officials highlighted the city's readiness, including improvements to Xfinity Mobile Arena and increased hotel capacity. The convention is projected to bring over 35,000 delegates, guests, and media members to the host city.

The Pennsylvania Convention Center has completed Phase I of a large-scale digital display modernization program, installing over 150 state-of-the-art digital screens. This upgrade aims to enhance event signage, simplify wayfinding, and expand on-site advertising opportunities throughout the facility.

On April 18, 2026, an event celebrating the International Day of Monuments and Sites included a tour of the trainshed above Reading Terminal Market, detailing its renovation and transformation into the Grand Hall of the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Architect Nan Gutterman, who worked on the project for over 15 years, provided historical insights into this significant Philadelphia landmark.