This premier gathering of festival and event professionals, suppliers, and industry partners from around the world offers unparalleled opportunities for education, inspiration, and meaningful connection. From those taking their first steps toward a new event, to those advancing long-standing, globally recognized experiences, there is something for everyone as we explore emerging trends, address real-world challenges, and identify new opportunities. Mark your calendar. Step Forward. The future of festivals and events starts here.
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Before you hit the ground running, stop by to meet some new IFEA friends at our “First-Timer's Roadmap” session. Designed to give our first-time convention attendees, as well as our long-time IFEA ‘family’ attendees, an opportunity to meet some valuable new friends, share some insider tips and advice on how to maximize the days ahead, find some dinner partners, and get your convention experience off to a fun start. Then, join us in the dfest® Hospitality Suite (Casita Suite 1576) to meet more new friends and let the networking conversations begin!
Founder & CEO / Professor of Practice, The ART of Events, LLC / Kansas State University
Cindy Lerick is an educator, consultant, and event industry leader with a passion for creating meaningful experiences and inspiring future professionals. As an instructor in the Department of Hospitality Management at Kansas State University, Cindy brings decades of hands-on experience... Read More →
The perfect opportunity to join up with your IFEA friends and professional peers for an evening of dining and networking in one of Tucson's great local restaurants, on-site or off. The El Conquistadoe will provide free shuttle service within a 3 to 5 mile radius.
Sunday October 4, 2026 6:00pm - Monday October 5, 2026 12:00am PDT On Own
The DFEST® Hospitality Suite, sponsored by long-time IFEA supporter DFEST®, is as much a part of the IFEA Convention as our breakout sessions, and we look forward to extending a warm Tucson welcome to everyone! Open Sunday night, October 4th (beginning at 7:00 p.m.) to meet up with old friends and new, the DFEST® Hospitality Suite (Casita Suite 1576) provides convention attendees with a time and a place to unwind, relax and connect outside of scheduled sessions and functions. For more than 35 years the DFEST ® Hospitality Suite has been recognized as the hub of the IFEA’s convention networking system.
