Trade Show News

Seattle leaders are optimistic about a tourism rebound in 2026, despite a slight decline in 2025 visitation and spending, as reported by Visit Seattle on March 27, 2026. The city anticipates a significant boost from hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and notes macroeconomic factors affected convention attendance in 2025.

Visit Seattle's Annual Meeting on March 26, 2026, revealed a slight decline in 2025 tourism and visitor spending for Seattle and King County, with 39.6 million visitors and $8.8 billion in spending. Despite this, local leaders expressed optimism for a rebound in 2026, particularly with the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The hospitality industry faced challenges like reduced international visitation and funding cuts impacting convention attendance.

Visit Seattle released its 2025 visitation data at its Annual Meeting on March 26, 2026, held at the Seattle Convention Center's Summit building. The data showed 39.6 million visitors to Seattle and King County, a slight decrease from 2024, with visitor spending totaling $8.8 billion. The meeting also addressed challenges like reduced international visitation and discussed preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

U.S. hotels experienced strengthened performance in the week ending March 21, with major events, sports tournaments, and convention activity boosting key markets. Industry data indicates that convention and trade show business specifically contributed to lifting urban gateways. This trend reinforces how event-driven surges shape monthly and quarterly results for hotel operators, encouraging granular revenue strategies.

Seattle is among 11 U.S. cities awarded a share of $625 million by FEMA to enhance security preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This funding aims to boost security, public safety, and operational needs for the major international event. The investment in city infrastructure and security for such a large-scale event can have a significant economic impact, potentially creating industry opportunities.

The Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) will host its Leadership Conference 2026 at the Seattle Convention Center from August 18-20. This premier event for the show and event industry offers senior executives opportunities to network, gain insights, and explore strategies for success. The Seattle Convention Center is the host venue for this important industry gathering.

CTI has acquired Streamline Solutions of Seattle, WA. This acquisition is categorized under 'Trade Show News' within the source, indicating its relevance to the industry.

LMN Architects announced the promotion of four new Associate Partners, including Leonardo da Costa, who has played a key role in shaping major projects such as the Seattle Convention Center Summit Building. Da Costa is also a frequent speaker on the future of convention centers.

The Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) will host its Leadership Conference from August 18–20, 2026, at the Seattle Convention Center. This event is designed for senior executives to connect, gain insights, and explore strategies for success in the show and event industry.

The 2026 SISO CEO Summit, held March 9-12, gathered over 200 executive-level event leaders to discuss innovation, growth strategies, and attendee retention. Planning for SISO's Leadership Conference in Seattle is currently underway.

The Seattle Architecture Foundation will host its 27th Annual Architectural Model Exhibit, 'EMERGENCE,' from April 16 to May 23, 2026, at the MG2 Seattle Design Studio. The exhibit will showcase local and international architectural ingenuity, exploring how the built environment adapts to external forces.

The AOFAS 2026 annual meeting, categorized as a trade show, is scheduled to take place in Seattle from September 15-19, 2026. This event is listed in TriMed Inc.'s upcoming trade shows and seminars archive.

The annual TECHSPO Seattle 2027 Technology Expo is scheduled for May 6-7, 2027, at the InterContinental Seattle Bellevue Hotel. This event aims to showcase cutting-edge technology, marketing, media, and advertising advancements, and facilitate networking among industry leaders.

The International Gem & Jewelry Show is returning to Seattle Center's Exhibition Hall on March 27, 2026. This event brings together wholesalers, manufacturers, and designers, allowing attendees to shop directly from a diverse selection of vendors.

Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC) has announced its 2027 dates, scheduled for March 4-7, 2027, at the Seattle Convention Center. The event is described as a celebration of fandom, bringing together creators and fans in an inclusive atmosphere.

The Seattle Convention Center Summit Building, designed by LMN Architects, has been recognized with an award. It is noted as the second largest LEED Platinum building in the U.S. and the largest LEED Platinum convention center. This award highlights the innovative design and sustainability achievements of the convention center's expansion.

Southland Holdings reported a significant financial loss in Q4 2025, primarily due to an adverse legal ruling related to the Washington State Convention Center project, resulting in a $135.8 million impact. Sureties are negotiating settlements and have agreed to defer repayment until at least March 2027.

The Seattle Convention Center is focusing on culinary inclusivity, recognizing that successful events involve more than just scheduling and décor. This initiative aims to ensure diverse and accommodating food and beverage options for meeting planners and attendees.

Seattle Parks and Recreation received $10 million in funding from the Washington State Convention Center Expansion Project for Freeway Park improvements. This public benefit package will fund capital improvements, repair, restoration, and activation within the park.

A video published on February 28, 2026, explores PAX West 2025 at the Seattle Convention Center's new Summit Building, highlighting its impact as a game-changer for Seattle's event landscape. The video showcases the differences between the Summit and Arch buildings, vendor booths, and overall attendee experience.