When and where is the IFA Annual Convention 2027?

The 2027 IFA Annual Convention is scheduled for February 22–24, 2027, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV

How can I register for the convention?

Registration details for the 2027 convention have not yet been published. Please check the IFA Events Overview page (https://www.franchise.org/events/) for updates

Who should attend the IFA Annual Convention?

The convention is designed for franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers to the franchise industry, offering networking, education, and advocacy opportunities

How can I become a sponsor or exhibitor?

For sponsorship and exhibiting inquiries, contact Lynette James, CFE, Senior Director, Sponsorships & Exhibits, at ljames@franchise.org or 202

Is there a mobile app for the convention?

Yes, the IFA Annual Convention features a mobile app that helps attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors connect. Sponsorship opportunities for the app are available

IFA Annual Convention | TradeShowIntel

Event overview

Overview

The International Franchise Association’s Annual Convention is the largest and most influential gathering in franchising, convening thousands of franchise leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs every year for unmatched learning, connection, and growth. The 2027 event will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas from February 22–24, 2027.

Attendees explore every aspect of franchising—from business development ideas and strategies for personal growth to unique networking opportunities. The convention delivers franchise-focused education, community building, and support for the franchising journey, all in one place

TL;DR

1Premier franchising event: The IFA Annual Convention is the flagship gathering for the franchise
2Education and insights: Attendees gain actionable insights through franchise-focused education sessions, learning paths, and
3Networking hub: The convention offers extensive networking opportunities, including meet-up hubs, private meeting areas
4Business development: Exhibitors and attendees can explore new business opportunities, discover innovative products and
5Community and advocacy: The event strengthens the franchising community, celebrates franchise excellence, and provides

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Franchisors seeking to network with peers, learn about industry trends, and explore new technologies and services

Franchisees (single-unit and multi-unit) looking for operational best practices, growth strategies, and supplier partnerships

Entrepreneurs and investors interested in franchise ownership opportunities and evaluating franchise brands

Franchise industry suppliers offering products, services, and technology solutions to the franchise sector

Franchise development executives and consultants focused on recruitment, sales, and brand expansion

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Franchise brands and systems showcasing their concepts to attract potential franchisees and expand their network

Suppliers of technology, marketing, financial services, legal support, and operational tools tailored to the franchise industry

Consulting and advisory firms specializing in franchise development, strategy, and compliance

Media and publishing companies serving the franchise sector, including trade publications and event organizers

Real estate and construction firms offering site selection, build-out, and facility management services for franchise locations

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Franchise Opportunities (Franchisor Brands)

Marketing & Advertising Services

Legal & Compliance Services

Technology & Software Solutions

Business Development & Consulting

Financial Services

Real Estate & Construction

Human Resources & Training

Supply Chain & Operations

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Bayside Exhibit HallsShoreline Exhibit Hall

Mandalay Bay Convention Center

3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89119 Las Vegas, USA

Entrances & gates

Main Convention Center Entrance

Bayside Exhibit HallsShoreline Exhibit Hall

Accessible from the casino floor via the walkway past Border Grill and the Wedding Chapel

Parking Garage Entrance

Bayside Exhibit HallsShoreline Exhibit Hall

Enter from the self-parking garage and follow the cobblestone walkway to the convention center

Facilities

Parking

Self-parking is available at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center Self-Parking Garage. For non-hotel guests, fees are approximately $15 for 1-4 hours and $18 for 4-24 hours, with the first hour free. Valet parking is also available [1†L7]

$18.00/day

Accessibility

The Mandalay Bay Convention Center complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are accessible elevators to all levels and to the east parking garage. Escalators to all levels are located between the main and upper lobbies. Wheelchairs can be rented via the Mandalay Bell Desk at (702) 632-7106

Cloakroom

Coat and bag check services are available at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center [5†L39]. Operated by the venue's official amenities

Luggage storage

Luggage storage is available through the Mandalay Bay Resort's concierge services [16†L7][16†L16]. For attendees not staying at the resort, third-party services like Radical Storage offer drop points near the convention center at approximately $6 per bag per day

Charging points

Electric vehicle charging is available through Mandalay Bay valet services for a $15 fee, in addition to applicable valet parking fees. General device charging stations for phones and laptops are not explicitly detailed, but the convention center features modern amenities including digital signage and mobile display units

On-site shuttle

A free tram connects Mandalay Bay to Luxor and Excalibur, operating daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM. The Deuce and SDX buses stop directly in front of the convention center [1†L8]

Food options

Mandalay Bay Food Court, Exhibit Hall Concessions, Border Grill

On-site dining

Parking: Self-parking is available at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center Self-Parking Garage. For non-hotel guests, fees are approximately $15 for 1-4 hours and $18 for 4-24 hours, with the first hour free-. Event-day parking may vary; follow signage. Access from I-15: Exit 36 Russell Rd., turn left onto Russell Rd., left onto Las Vegas Blvd., left onto Four Seasons Dr., and stay in left lane into the garage

Gate: The main convention center entrance is accessible from the casino floor: walk past guest elevators, follow the left-hand pathway, continue straight on the cobblestone walkway past the beach, Border Grill, and Wedding Chapel. From the parking garage, enter the doorways and follow the same cobblestone route. Rideshare drop-off is at the main entrance on Las Vegas Blvd

Attend

Entry & tickets

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Event daysExhibit hall and session hours to be announced

Event daysThe convention runs February 22–24, 2027

Build-up & tear-down

Setup starts21 Feb 2027

Setup ends22 Feb 2027

Teardown starts24 Feb 2027

Teardown ends25 Feb 2027

Who runs the show

Organisers

Lynette James, CFE

Senior Director, Sponsorships & Exhibits

Email Call Website

IFA Conferences Department

General Event Inquiries

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Speakers

Sam G. Ballas

CFE, CCIM

Stabilizing

Andrew T. Cathy

Brands

Kat Cole

Innovation

Curtis Dubay

Economics

Ryan Dunlap

Leadership

Daymond John

Entrepreneurship

Scott Klososky

Technology

David Mortensen

Customers

Chuck Runyon

Customers

Amy Cheng

Cheng Cohen

Franchise compliance and sales mastery

Amy Cmiel

Thought Leadership Roundtable on Protecting Evolving Brands

Andrae Marrocco

The New Shape of International Franchising Arrangements

Topic tracks

Multi-Unit GrowthCustomer ExperienceLegal/Policy UpdatesLeadership and System ExpansionMarketing, Technology, and Data StrategySales & Marketing SummitRelations & Operations

Awards

IFA Hall of Fame Award

Annual

Honors individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the franchising industry

source

Entrepreneur of the Year

Annual

Recognizes a franchise entrepreneur who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and growth

source

IFA Women's Leadership Award

Annual

Celebrates women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and mentorship in franchising

source

Ronald E. Harrison Diversity Award

Annual

Honors organizations or individuals who have made significant contributions to diversity and inclusion in franchising

source

William Rosenberg Foundation Leadership Award

Annual

Recognizes franchise leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service and philanthropy

source

Emerging Franchisor of the Year

Annual

Honors a franchisor that has shown rapid growth, innovation, and franchisee success

source

Previous edition

Current edition

2027 · 3,100 visitors · 350 exhibitors

Official statistics for the 2027 edition have not yet been published. The convention is scheduled to take place February 22–24, 2027, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas

Forecast — not final

Exhibitors

300

Growth over time

Edition recap

IFA26: Evolve – A Transformational Experience

The 2026 IFA Annual Convention, held February 23–25 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, brought together thousands of franchise leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs under the theme 'Evolve.' The three-day event featured new formats and experiences designed to help attendees evolve their brand, team, and leadership, including roundtable discussions, breakout sessions, expert-led panels, and a supplier showcase.

Key highlights included the announcement of the IFA Franchise Research and Innovation Center, the introduction of the DOT AI chatbot, and the Certified Franchise Brand Initiative. The convention also celebrated over 200 CFE graduates and recognized the recipients of the IFA Major Awards.

Featured speakers included Daymond John (Shark Tank), Kat Cole (AG1), Codie Sanchez (Contrarian Thinking), Andrew T. Cathy (Chick-fil-A), and Greg Flynn (Flynn Group). The event drew over 500 brands and 300 exhibiting partners, making it the premier gathering for the franchising industry.

New this edition

1
IFA Franchise Research and Innovation Center
Announced at the 2026 convention, this new centralized resource provides members with data-driven insights, financial performance data, and operational intelligence developed in partnership with FRANdata, ProfitKeeper, FranConnect, and Franchise Business Review
Source
2
DOT AI Chatbot
IFA introduced DOT, a new AI-powered chatbot designed to help members quickly access information and resources on franchise.org
Source
3
Certified Franchise Brand Initiative
A new program to recognize franchise organizations that demonstrate strong operational practices, brand standards, and franchisee support
Source
4
IFA Brand Refresh
At the 2025 convention, IFA unveiled a complete brand refresh including a new logo, upgraded website, and refined strategic mission
Source

Testimonials

The IFA Convention is amazing, it is my inspiration for my future. I would like to teach, train, and develop future generations, making franchising a common goal for people rather than most success stories that the franchisor/franchisee fell into it. Franchising is inspiring, a whole community of people, and it's exactly where I want to be
Tiffany Martin · Cardinal Coordinator · University of Louisville · 2025

This is my 18th IFA Convention. I missed the one in 2021 with the virtual show. Great turn out this year, awesome venue, and excited to be here!
Lee Payne · Senior Account Executive · Franchise Ventures · 2025

We love IFA. We love coming to the IFA Convention. We have great facetime with clients and it's a wonderful opportunity to be in this space with the whole franchising community
Liz Berman · Senior Advertising Specialist · BizBuySell · 2025

I have learned so much that it's just literally breathtaking at how much information, knowledge, and networking that I have gained from being here at the conference, being with the IFA, being with so many mentors. It has been a dream come true!
Jasmine Thurston · Franchisee · Wisdom Senior Care · 2025

The IFA Convention shows the power of the franchise business model and reinforces why franchising continues to outpace growth of the U.S. economy
Matthew Haller · President and CEO · International Franchise Association · 2024

Next edition outlook

2027-02-22 – 2027-02-24

high

The 2027 IFA Annual Convention is scheduled to take place February 22–24, 2027, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. Building on the momentum of the 2026 convention, the 2027 edition is expected to continue the tradition of world-class keynotes, sessions, and exhibitions, while deepening the industry's focus on AI, data-driven growth, and system-wide evolution. The convention will serve as the premier platform for networking, education, and advocacy in franchising, bringing together franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers from across the globe. Attendees can anticipate continued emphasis on technology integration, franchisee support, and operational excellence, with new initiatives and insights building on the foundation established at IFA26.[17†L12]

Further integration of AI and data analytics into franchise operations and member services, building on the launch of the DOT AI chatbot and Research and Innovation Center Expansion of the IFA Research and Innovation Center's offerings and data-driven insights, providing members with even deeper access to financial performance data and system-wide intelligence Continued focus on franchisee support, brand standards, and recognition programs like the Certified Franchise Brand Initiative, reinforcing trust and operational excellence Evolution of educational formats and networking experiences to foster deeper engagement, including new session formats and interactive experiences Increased emphasis on the 'Franchise Means Local' campaign and advocacy efforts, including the American Franchise Act, to strengthen the franchise business model

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2026 IFA Annual Convention, themed 'Evolve,' was a landmark event that underscored the resilience, growth, and transformation of the franchising industry. Held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas from February 23–25, the convention brought together thousands of franchise leaders, entrepreneurs, and suppliers for three days of high-level networking, immersive learning, and strategic dialogue. The event featured new formats and experiences designed to help attendees evolve their brand, team, and leadership, including roundtable discussions, breakout sessions, expert-led panels, and a supplier showcase. IFA President and CEO Matt Haller described the convention as 'a transformational platform where franchise leaders could connect, network, learn from the best, and position their businesses for sustained success in 2026 and beyond.'- 10 The convention's impact extended beyond the event itself, with major announcements including the IFA Franchise Research and Innovation Center, the DOT AI chatbot, and the Certified Franchise Brand Initiative, all designed to strengthen the franchising community and provide members with valuable insights, tools, and resources. The 2026 Economic Forecast, released during the convention, projected 12,479 new units, 150,000 new jobs, and $14.1 billion in additional economic output, reinforcing the optimism felt throughout the event

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2026 IFA Annual Convention drew a high-caliber audience of thousands of franchise professionals, including franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers from across the U.S. and around the globe. The event brought together over 500 brands and 300 exhibiting partners, representing all three segments of franchising. Attendees included C-suite executives, business owners, emerging franchise leaders, and industry professionals, creating a rich environment for high-level networking, deal-making, and strategic partnerships. The convention's agenda featured world-class keynotes from industry icons such as Daymond John (Shark Tank), Kat Cole (AG1), Codie Sanchez (Contrarian Thinking), and Andrew T. Cathy (Chick-fil-A), further elevating the quality of discourse and engagement. The audience was characterized by a spirit of calculated optimism and a focus on technology-driven efficiency, deep-rooted local impact, and actionable insights

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

The 2026 IFA Annual Convention delivered strong return on investment for exhibitors, with over 300 exhibiting partners gaining direct access to thousands of qualified decision-makers across the franchise ecosystem. The exhibit floor served as a primary networking hub, facilitating lead generation, brand exposure, and business development opportunities. The convention's supplier showcase and dedicated networking spaces enabled exhibitors to connect with franchisors, multi-unit franchisees, and industry influencers actively seeking solutions to grow their operations. The event's reputation as the premier franchising gathering ensured that exhibitors engaged with serious prospects and industry leaders, reinforcing the value of participation. Additionally, the convention's mobile app and IFAQuest in-app game provided exhibitors with enhanced visibility and engagement opportunities throughout the event

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

North America / Global

Why it matters

The IFA Annual Convention is the definitive barometer for the global franchising industry. It is where the sector's most influential leaders converge to share insights, set the agenda, and forge the partnerships that drive the industry forward. For buyers (franchisees and suppliers), it offers a unique, concentrated environment to evaluate hundreds of brands, learn from experts, and connect with peers. For exhibitors (franchisors and service providers), it provides unparalleled access to thousands of qualified decision-makers. The convention serves as the launchpad for major industry initiatives, from the IFA's AI chatbot DOT to the Research and Insights Center. The event's pulse reflects the broader industry's resilience and growth, with IFA's 2026 Economic Outlook projecting continued expansion in units, jobs, and economic output. As Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO, stated, 'Franchising stands at an exciting inflection point'- 4, and the convention is the central stage where this evolution is shaped and celebrated

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Franchising Enters a 'Golden Era' of Accelerated Growth

Global franchising revenues are forecast to grow at approximately 10% annually over the next five years, significantly outpacing wider consumer spending. By 2029, the global market is expected to reach $1.4 trillion. The industry is becoming more institutionalized, driven by private equity backing large franchisee platforms, consolidating ownership, and elevating operational sophistication

Source

AI and Technology Become Core Infrastructure

Artificial intelligence was a central theme at IFA26-. The launch of DOT, IFA's new AI-powered chatbot, exemplifies how the industry is integrating AI to provide on-demand member support and navigate growing libraries of tools and research. Technology is shifting from a novelty to a core competitive infrastructure, with AI labs and tech-focused learning paths being key features of major events

Source

Resilience and Steady U.S. Market Growth

Despite macroeconomic headwinds, the U.S. franchise sector has demonstrated resilience. IFA's '2026 Franchising Economic Outlook' projects franchising's economic output to rise by 1.6%, with an increase from 832,521 to 845,000 units (1.5%). Franchise employment is anticipated to grow by over 150,000 jobs to nearly 8.9 million. The Southeast and Southwest are expected to be the top regions for expansion

Source

Shift in Fastest-Growing Franchise Sectors

While often associated with fast food, child services and commercial/residential services are expected to be the fastest-growing franchise industries in 2026, both expanding at 3.2%- 1. For the first time since the pandemic, full-service restaurants are expected to outpace QSRs in growth, driven by a shift toward 'experiential dining'- 1. Health and wellness also continues its above-average growth trajectory at 2.1%- 1

Source

Consolidation and Institutionalization of Franchise Ownership

The traditional 'mom and pop' franchise operator is becoming less common as larger, better-capitalized operators acquire smaller businesses, often backed by private equity. Franchisors increasingly prefer fewer, larger partners capable of scaling the brand. This shift brings greater operational sophistication, data capability, and growth capital but also raises expectations for franchisee performance

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

IFA Holds 2026 Annual Convention in Las Vegas

Read

Major Initiatives and Industry Insights Announced at the 2026 IFA Annual Convention

Read

Resilient by Design: Franchising is Poised for Growth Amid Uncertainty

Read

IFA Announces Recipients of Most Prestigious Awards in Franchising

Read

IFA and Franchise Industry Event Circuit (2026–2027)

September 2026 – May 2027

The franchise event calendar is anchored by the IFA's flagship Annual Convention in February, supported by a robust circuit of IFA-organized and industry partner events throughout the year. These events cater to various segments of the franchise community, from advocacy and policy to development, finance, and international expansion. The circuit provides year-round opportunities for networking, education, and business development

14–16 Sep 2026

IFA Advocacy Summit

Washington, USA

Policy and advocacy-focused event; open to IFA and FAN members only

website

25–26 Sep 2026

IFA World Franchise Show

Fort Lauderdale, USA

New franchise expo connecting brands with qualified prospects

website

5–8 Oct 2026

Franchise Leadership & Development Conference

Atlanta, USA

Focused on franchise sales, development, and recruitment strategies for executives

website

9–11 Nov 2026

Restaurant Finance & Development Conference

Las Vegas, USA

Premier event for restaurant owners and financial executives

website

16–18 Nov 2026

IFA Emerging Franchisor Conference

Nashville, USA

Designed for emerging franchisors looking to scale

website

22–24 Feb 2027

IFA Annual Convention

Las Vegas, USA

The premier and largest event in franchising, bringing together all segments of the industry

website

27–30 Apr 2027

Multi-Unit Franchising Conference

Las Vegas, USA

Key event for multi-unit franchisees and operators

website

4–5 May 2027

IBA/IFA Joint Conference

Joint conference hosted by the International Bar Association and IFA, focusing on legal and international franchising issues

website

Fall 2026 Policy & Development Window

IFA Advocacy SummitIFA World Franchise ShowFranchise Leadership & Development ConferenceRestaurant Finance & Development Conference

A concentrated period from September to November featuring events focused on advocacy, development, and finance

Spring 2027 Major Gathering Window

IFA Annual ConventionMulti-Unit Franchising Conference

The IFA Annual Convention in February serves as the anchor event, followed by the Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in April

Event dates and details compiled from IFA and industry calendars

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

LAS

Harry Reid International Airport

Primary airport serving Las Vegas. Taxis have a flat fare of $21.25 to Mandalay Bay. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) typically costs $15-$25, but can surge during peak times. RTC bus route 109 connects the airport to the South Strip Transit Terminal; from there, transfer to The Deuce bus to Mandalay Bay; total journey ~35 min, cost ~$6 [7†L28]. GO Airport Shuttle provides shared rides to major Strip resorts

9 km (5.6 miles)

to venue

~7-10 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

On-site / Luxury

Mandalay Bay Resort & Delano

USD 113–300 / night

Directly connected to the convention center. Mandalay Bay rates from ~$113/night-; Delano rates vary, with February 2027 rates from ~$76/night-. Resort fees and taxes extra

Premium

Luxor Las Vegas

USD 80–250 / night

Approximately 400 meters (0.25 miles) from the convention center. Average rates ~$141/night-; connected via free tram

Mid-range

Excalibur Las Vegas

USD 60–200 / night

Approximately 700 meters (0.4 miles) away. 3.5-star property with rates from ~$119/night-; connected via free tram

Luxury

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

USD 200–500 / night

Adjacent to Mandalay Bay, approximately 150 meters (0.1 miles) away. Room block rates from $305/night-; resort fee ~$55/night extra

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

RTC Deuce Bus (Strip Route)

Estimated costSingle ride from $6; 24-hour pass from $8; 3-day pass from $20

Best forRuns 24/7 along the Las Vegas Strip between the South Strip Transit Terminal and Fremont Street Experience, with stops at Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur, and most major resorts

Operates every 10–15 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes overnight. Tickets can be purchased via the rideRTC app, at vending machines, or onboard

RTC SDX (Strip & Downtown Express)

Estimated costFares are comparable to the Deuce; day passes are valid on both services

Best forLimited-stop express service connecting Downtown Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the Strip, with bus-only lanes for faster travel

Operates daily from 9:00 AM to midnight. A faster alternative to the Deuce for travel between key points

Free Mandalay Bay Tram

Estimated costFree

Best forConnects Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Excalibur hotels at the south end of the Strip

Runs daily from 10:00 AM to midnight. Two trams available: one stops at all three properties (7-min trip), another express between Mandalay Bay and Excalibur North (1-min trip)-. Trains run every 3–7 minutes-. Wheelchair accessible

Las Vegas Monorail

Estimated costDay passes from $5; single ride from $5–$13

Best forRuns from the MGM Grand (southern terminus) north along the Strip to the Sahara Las Vegas station

Air-conditioned trains arrive every 4–8 minutes. From MGM Grand, transfer to the free Mandalay Bay tram to reach the convention center

Taxi

Estimated costAirport to Mandalay Bay: approximately $21 flat rate (taxi) or $15–$25 (Uber/Lyft). Strip hotels to Mandalay Bay: $12–$27 depending on distance

Best forAvailable at Harry Reid International Airport, hotel taxi stands, and hailed on the Strip

Taxis from the airport have a flat fare to Strip hotels-. Rideshare drop-off recommended at Shark Reef Aquarium entrance for easy South Convention Center access-. Prices may surge during peak hours or major events

Airport Shuttle

Estimated cost$8–$25 per person

Best forShared shuttle services from Harry Reid International Airport to Mandalay Bay and other Strip hotels

Buses wait until full before departing; travel time approximately 30 minutes. Multiple operators available at airport ground transportation counters

Self-Parking

Estimated cost$9 for 1–2 hours; $12 for 2–4 hours; $15 for 4–24 hours

Best forMandalay Bay Convention Center Self-Parking Garage, accessible from Las Vegas Boulevard

Valet parking also available. Hotel guests may charge parking to their room. MGM Rewards members at Pearl tier or above receive complimentary self-parking-. Event-day rates may vary

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries traveling for business or tourism for 90 days or less	$40.00	Usually within 72 hours; most applicants receive approval within minutes
B-1 Business Visitor Visa	Nationals of countries not in the Visa Waiver Program, or those needing to stay longer than 90 days for business purposes	$185.00	Varies widely by location—from 7 days to over 2 years; check local embassy wait times. After interview approval, typically 3-5 working days for processing

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can travel to the U.S. without a visa for business or tourism for up to 90 days, but must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel. VWP countries include most European nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and others. Check the full list at https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/visa-waiver-program

The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for exhibitions and fairs. ATA Carnets simplify customs procedures and allow duty-free and tax-free temporary imports for up to one year -. They are accepted in more than 100 countries. The U.S. guaranteeing association is the United States Council for International Business (USCIB), which has appointed service providers Roanoke Trade and boomerang carnets to issue carnets

Official visa page

Weather

Las Vegas in February: average high of 61°F (16°C) and low of 41°F (5°C). Precipitation is minimal at about 0.48 inches (1.21 cm) [9†L9]. Pack layers—mornings and evenings can be cool, but afternoons are mild and sunny. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the convention center and the Strip

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Mandalay Bay Convention Center is directly accessible via the Las Vegas Strip. The RTC Deuce and SDX buses stop in front of the center [1†L8]. A free tram connects Mandalay Bay to Luxor and Excalibur. The Las Vegas Monorail runs from the MGM Grand (southern terminus) north along the Strip; from MGM Grand, transfer to the free tram to Mandalay Bay. Taxis and rideshares are readily available throughout the Strip

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary in Las Vegas. For restaurants with table service, 15-20% is standard [12†L51]. For free drinks at casinos, tip at least $1 per drink. For hotel staff, $1-2 per bag for bellhops and $2-5 per night for housekeeping is typical. Taxi drivers expect 10-15% of the fare

Business Attire

Business attire is standard for the convention, with many opting for business casual. Comfortable shoes are essential due to the extensive walking involved. Evenings may call for more formal or resort-casual wear depending on the event

Pace Yourself

With a packed schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, roundtables, and networking events, it's important to pace yourself. Prioritize sessions that align with your goals and allow time for rest. Las Vegas is a 24-hour city, but don't overdo it—you'll want to be fresh for the convention's activities

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

LAS is a major international hub with direct flights from most US cities and many international destinations. Book early for best rates, especially during convention season. Consider arriving a day early to adjust to time zone changes and avoid travel-day stress

Visa

Most international attendees will need either an approved ESTA (if from a Visa Waiver Program country) or a B-1 business visitor visa. ESTA is valid for 90-day business visits; B-1 is required for longer stays or for nationals of non-VWP countries. Apply early—ESTA processing is usually within 72 hours, but B-1 visa wait times vary significantly by embassy

Processing: ESTA: typically within 72 hours; B-1: varies by embassy—check local wait times

IFA may provide visa invitation letters upon request after registration is complete-. Contact the IFA directly for visa letter assistance. Always apply through official U.S. government channels to avoid third-party scams

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

South Strip (Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur, Delano) · Center Strip (MGM Grand, Aria, Bellagio, Caesars Palace) · Airport vicinity (Hampton Inn, Home2 Suites, Candlewood Suites)

On-site / Luxury

$113–$300+ / night

Premium

$80–$250 / night

Mid-range

$60–$200 / night

Budget

$40–$100 / night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to Mandalay Bay Convention Center: taxi 7 min, $140–$180 MXN ($7–$9 USD); rideshare ~7 min; shared shuttle ~$15–$25 USD; RTC bus line 109 + Deuce bus ~35 min, ~$3 USD

Hotel → venue: On-site hotels: walk directly. Luxor/Excalibur: free tram to Mandalay Bay-. Other Strip hotels: Las Vegas Monorail to MGM Grand, then free tram to Mandalay Bay-, or RTC Deuce bus along the Strip

Ride-hail: Uber/Lyft widely available; estimated $15–$25 from airport to venue-. Use Shark Reef Aquarium as drop-off point for South Convention Center access

Public transit: RTC Deuce bus runs 24/7 along the Strip, stops at Mandalay Bay. Free tram connects Mandalay Bay–Luxor–Excalibur-. Las Vegas Monorail runs from MGM Grand north along the Strip

Parking: Self-parking at Mandalay Bay: $9 for 1-2 hours, $12 for 2-4 hours, $15 for 4-24 hours-. Valet parking available-. Hotel guests may charge parking to room

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: February

Temperature: 41°F – 61°F (5°C – 16°C)

Seasonality: Minimal precipitation (0.48 inches / 1.21 cm); mostly sunny with occasional clouds

Packing: Pack layers: a light jacket or sweater for cool mornings/evenings, and comfortable, breathable clothing for mild afternoons. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the convention center and the Strip. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended even in winter due to the high desert sun

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:00Breakfast and registration
09:00Keynote session
10:30Educational breakout sessions
12:00Lunch break and networking
13:30Exhibit hall exploration
15:30Panel discussion
17:00Networking reception
19:00Dinner and optional evening activity

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Tuesday, February 23, 2027

The second day of the convention typically features a full schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, and a bustling exhibit floor, offering maximum opportunities for learning and networking. The exhibit hall is fully operational, and attendees have settled into the rhythm of the event

T-90 (November 2026)

Define clear goals for attending (e.g., number of leads, partnerships, learning objectives) — Clarify what success looks like to guide session selection and networking priorities

T-60 (December 2026)

Register for the convention and book travel (flights and hotel) — Early registration often secures better rates. Book hotels early as Las Vegas prices surge during conventions

T-45 (January 2027)

Research exhibitors and schedule meetings — Review the exhibitor list and reach out to key contacts to schedule 1-on-1 meetings

T-30 (January 2027)

Plan your session schedule and download the IFA mobile app — Use the app to access the program, speaker bios, and exhibitor directory-. Prioritize sessions that align with your goals

T-14 (February 2027)

Prepare marketing materials and business cards — Ensure you have enough business cards and any digital materials to share-. Create a virtual business card with a QR code for easy sharing

T-7 (February 2027)

Finalize travel logistics and pack accordingly — Check Las Vegas weather forecast and pack layers. Comfortable shoes are essential for the convention center

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day