Trade Show News

Tourism, conventions, and cruise activity are identified as resilient economic drivers for Tampa Bay, with nearly 60 meetings, conventions, and major events occurring in Hillsborough County during March alone, contributing to hundreds of millions in estimated economic impact.

Hillsborough County surpassed $1 billion in taxable hotel revenue for the fourth consecutive year in 2025, with occupancy rates outperforming competing markets. Conventions, along with other major events, are identified as key drivers generating sustained hotel occupancy and significant economic impact throughout the year.

Tampa Bay's economy is transitioning into a more selective growth phase, with tourism, conventions, and cruise activity identified as resilient economic drivers. Hillsborough County recorded over $1 billion in taxable hotel revenue for the fourth consecutive year in 2025, and nearly 60 meetings, conventions, and major events, including four citywide conventions, took place in March alone.

Tampa has been recognized as the #24 Top Meeting Destination in North America by Cvent, an industry-leading technology provider. This marks a four-spot climb from the previous year, highlighting the Tampa Convention Center's role in attracting group business.

Tampa has been named the #24 Top Meeting Destination in North America by Cvent, climbing four spots from the previous year. The Tampa Convention Center is credited for its pivotal role in securing this status through world-class operations and event technology infrastructure, attracting corporate meetings, trade shows, and large-scale events.

Tampa has been ranked #24 among Top Meeting Destinations in North America by Cvent, climbing four spots from the previous year. The Tampa Convention Center is credited for its pivotal role in securing this status through world-class facility operations and advanced event technology.

Skanska, a construction and development firm, announced the delivery of the Fair Oaks Recreation Complex in Tampa. The company highlighted its continued role in shaping the Tampa Bay region, referencing past award-winning renovation and expansion projects, including the Tampa Convention Center.

Tampa venue owner Tom DeGeorge testified against Live Nation's alleged monopolistic practices, arguing that without action, independent venues face closure. This discussion highlights the competitive landscape and operational challenges within the live event industry in Tampa, which can impact the broader event and convention ecosystem. Live Nation's Florida Market President stated that a new venue in the Gasworx district aims to strengthen Tampa's position as a destination for live music.

SOF Week in Tampa, held at the Tampa Convention Center and JW Marriott, included information sessions and networking opportunities to help active duty and retired special forces members transition to civilian life and address unique challenges.

The City of Tampa has announced the Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2026, listed as a scheduled event.

The Tampa Business Expo, hosted by the Tampa Business Club, is announced for June 19, 2026, at the Hotel Alba Tampa. This event offers a significant networking opportunity for over 1000 local brands, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Attendees can connect with industry leaders and explore new opportunities.

Global Trade Fairs lists 9 upcoming trade fairs, exhibitions, and expos in Tampa for 2026. These events span various industries such as technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, with details on dates, venues, and registration available.

The Tampa Marriott Water Street will host several conventions in 2026, including the Florida Attractions Association Annual Conference from May 31 to June 2, and the Pulp and Paper Safety Association Annual Convention on June 8-9.

The Tampa Marriott Water Street is scheduled to host several conventions and meetings, including the Florida Attractions Association Annual Conference (May 31-June 2, 2026), the 2026 Nonprofit Leadership Conference (June 4, 2026), and the Pulp and Paper Safety Association Annual Convention (June 8-9, 2026).

The Tampa Convention Center has won the 2026 Smart Stars Award for Best Convention Center for the second consecutive year, as voted by corporate event organizers and association meeting planners. This recognition highlights the center's outstanding service, seamless execution, and world-class venue capabilities.

Skanska, a leading construction and development firm, announced the delivery of the Fair Oaks Recreation Complex in Tampa, and in doing so, highlighted its past award-winning renovation and expansion projects, including the Tampa Convention Center. Skanska continues to play a key role in shaping the Tampa Bay region.

The Tampa Convention Center has undergone a $44 million capital improvement project, adding 18 new waterfront meeting rooms, and achieved LEED Silver Certification for Building Operations and Maintenance. The center estimates a $152.7 million economic impact in 2026 and is seeking nominations for the Meetings Today Best Of Awards.

The Tampa Convention Center has undergone a $44 million capital improvement project, adding 18 new waterfront meeting rooms that connect directly to the Exhibit Hall. The center reports an estimated $152.7 million economic impact in 2026 and is focused on operational excellence and accessibility.

The Tampa Convention Center recently completed a $44 million capital improvement project, adding 18 new waterfront meeting rooms directly connected to the Exhibit Hall. This expansion enhances the facility's ability to host diverse events.