International Woodworking Fair - IWF

Name: International Woodworking Fair - IWF
Start: 2026-08-25
End: 2026-08-28
Location: Georgia World Congress Center

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at International Woodworking Fair - IWF include 3A Composites USA, 3B S.p.A, 526 Media Group / Surface & Panel, 7robotics and A & H Industries, Inc.

3A Composites USA
3B S.p.A
526 Media Group / Surface & Panel
7robotics
A & H Industries, Inc.

Event overview

Overview

The International Woodworking Fair (IWF) is North America's largest woodworking technology and design trade show and conference, and a top destination for the global woodworking sector.

IWF delivers the latest solutions in architectural woodwork, cabinetry, flooring, furniture manufacturing, engineered products, doors, windows, machinery, tools, metals, plastics and more.

IWF is where the woodworking business does business.

TL;DR

1North America's largest woodworking trade show, held biennially in Atlanta.
2Over 1,000 exhibitors showcasing machinery, materials, supplies, and services.
3Attracts tens of thousands of global attendees from woodworking and related industries.
4Includes education conference, live demonstrations, and networking events.
5New Mass Timber and Prefabricated Construction Products showcase debuts in 2026.

Why visit

IWF connects woodworking, design and manufacturing professionals, delivering innovations, learning and networking to support your business. Attendees can see thousands of products, attend education sessions, and meet industry peers face-to-face.

Why exhibit

By exhibiting at IWF, you tap the buying power of tens of thousands of global attendees, service current accounts, find and convert prospects, and develop sales leads – all to grow your business and brand. The show provides a platform to showcase your products on the industry's biggest stage in North America.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Furniture Manufacturers

Cabinet Makers

Architectural Woodworkers

Flooring Producers

Distributors and Dealers

Designers and Architects

Plant Managers and Engineers

Business Owners and Executives

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers

Tooling and Cutting Tool Suppliers

Cabinet and Furniture Component Providers

Adhesive and Finish Suppliers

Panel Products and Composite Material Producers

CNC and Automation System Providers

Material Handling Equipment Companies

Software and Design Solution Vendors

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Machinery and Equipment

Materials and Supplies

Tooling and Cutting Tools

Cabinet and Furniture Components

Adhesives and Finishes

Panel Products and Composites

CNC and Automation

Software and Design Solutions

Mass Timber and Prefabricated Construction Products

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Building ABuilding BBuilding BCBuilding C

Georgia World Congress Center

285 Andrew Young International Boulevard, Atlanta, USA

Entrances & gates

Andrew Young International Boulevard Entrance

Building ABuilding B

Located between Buildings A and B, convenient from downtown, MARTA Arena/Dome/GWCC Station, and Red Deck parking.

Northside Drive Entrance

Building C

Located at Building C, convenient to Blue Lot and Yellow Lot parking.

Facilities

Parking

On-campus parking is available in multiple decks and lots, including Red Deck (closest to Building B), Orange Deck, Green Deck (near Building A), Blue Lot, and Yellow Lot (near Building C). Pre-purchasing is highly recommended. EV chargers are available in most decks. Parking services are provided by SP+/Metropolis.

Accessibility

All entrances, restrooms, and trade show floors are wheelchair accessible. Elevators are equipped with Braille. Manual wheelchairs are available free of charge at information desks on a first-come, first-served basis. Motorized scooters can be rented in advance from Mobility Georgia. Assistive services like sign language interpretation and captioning are available upon request.

Cloakroom

Coat and baggage check is available at the Georgia World Congress Center during IWF.

Luggage storage

Coat and baggage check is available, which can serve as luggage storage during the event.

Charging points

A limited number of EV chargers are available in most parking decks. Information about general device charging stations is not specified.

Food options

Full-service cafes and restaurants

On-site dining

Parking: GWCC offers three surface lots and four parking decks. Pre-purchased daily rate: $15; at entry: $20. Cashless payment only. Multi-day packages available. Marshalling yard on Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. for large trucks and trailers, daily pre-purchase rate $30.

Gate: Two main entrances: Andrew Young International Boulevard Entrance (between Buildings A and B, near MARTA and Red Deck parking) and Northside Drive Entrance (at Building C, near Blue and Yellow Lots).

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Tuesday, August 25:8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday, August 26:8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday, August 27:8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday, August 28:8:30 AM – 2:00 PM (Building A opens at 7:30 AM each day)

General admission
$25.00
General admission
$50.00

Ticket info

Badge collection

Attendee buyer on-site registration & pre-registered badge pick-up at GWCC. Exhibitor and qualified distributor pre-registered badge pick-up: Sunday Aug 23 12:00-4:30 pm, Monday Aug 24 7:30 am-4:30 pm in International Blvd Entrance, A-B Lobby. Exhibitor & qualified distributor on-site registration & badge pick-up: Aug 24-27 7:30 am-4:30 pm, Aug 28 7:30 am-1:30 pm in Building A, Hall 1 and Building C, Northside Drive Lobby. Badges can be mailed for exhibitor personnel registered by July 8, 2026.

Ticket notes

Advanced discount early registration $25.00 from March 3 to July 31, 2026. After that, $50.00 for show admission only. Names can be substituted prior to badge printing. No refunds on registration or conference. Exhibitors have free badge allotment based on booth size; additional badges $50 each. Complimentary guest passes for exhibitors based on booth size (15-200 passes); additional passes $5 each.

Registration deadline

Housing closes July 24, 2026.

Build-up & tear-down

Setup starts17 Aug 2026

Setup ends24 Aug 2026

Teardown starts28 Aug 2026

Teardown ends1 Sep 2026

Who runs the show

Organisers

Call

What's on

Programme

Mini-Symposium

Event days

8:00 AM–5:30 PM

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Doug Hague

CEO @ Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI)

Design Summit

Thursday, Aug 27, 2026

8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Design Summit – SYP4

Mini-Symposium

B306

Topic tracks

Business ManagementExhibitor EDUManufacturing and DesignMarketing and SalesMini SymposiumNew Business Sectors

Co-located events

IWF Night At The Tabernacle

Separate ticket

Co-located seminars

Design Summit – SYP4

Paid

Awards

Challengers Distinguished Achievement Award

Biennial

A world-renowned competition recognizing companies demonstrating exemplary achievement in the development of products, services, or manufacturing technologies and techniques created to advance the industry. A panel of nine distinguished judges reviews entries, selects 20 finalists for live demonstrations, and ultimately chooses seven winners. For IWF 2026, 84 submissions from 65 exhibiting companies were received.

source

Design Emphasis Student Furniture Competition

Biennial

A prestigious furniture design competition for U.S. college students, sponsored by IWF and its owner WIA. Students submit projects for preliminary judging, with finalists displaying their work in the Design Emphasis Gallery at IWF. Winners are announced during the show, with over $10,000 in prize money awarded. The 2026 competition received 78 projects from 14 schools.

Accent Furniture / Accent TablesCase GoodsCommercial / Office / Hospitality FurnitureDesign CreativitySeatingBest in Show

source

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Last edition

2024

Completed

Visitors: 26,000

Exhibitors: 1,093

Floor area: 92,903 sqm

Exhibitor countries: 47

This edition

2026

Visitors: 27,000

Exhibitors: 1,001

Next edition

2026

IWF 2026 is scheduled for August 25–28 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Building on the momentum of the record-breaking 2024 edition, the 2026 show is expected to continue its growth trajectory with expanded exhibit space, new product categories, and enhanced networking opportunities. The event will feature the IWF Education Conference, the Challengers Distinguished Achievement Award, and the Design Emphasis Student Competition.

Expansion of the IWF Education Conference with new session tracks and speakers Introduction of new product categories and technology zones Enhanced digital tools for attendee and exhibitor engagement Continued growth in international exhibitor and attendee participation

Growth over time

Edition recap

IWF 2024, held August 6–9 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, was a resounding success. The biennial event featured 1,093 exhibitors and an estimated 26,000 attendees from across the global woodworking industry, filling over 1 million square feet of exhibit space.

The show delivered strong business results: 94% of exhibitors said IWF 2024 exceeded or greatly exceeded their show performance expectations, while 93% of buyer attendees said the show met or exceeded all expectations.

Highlights included the Challengers Distinguished Achievement Award, the Design Emphasis Student Furniture Competition, and the popular IWF Night at the Tabernacle. IWF also announced the launch of IWF West, a new regional event debuting in San Antonio in 2027.

New this edition

1
IWF West Announcement
IWF announced the launch of IWF West, a new regional trade show debuting August 25-27, 2027 in San Antonio, Texas, serving the growing southwestern U.S. marketplace.
Source
2
IWF Night At The Tabernacle
The official IWF show party returned with high-energy entertainment, complimentary cocktails, and networking at Atlanta's premier entertainment venue.
Source
3
Beer Garden Sponsored by WEINIG HOLZ-HER
New for 2024, a dedicated Beer Garden located just inside the Andrew Young International Boulevard entrance offering food and beverages.
Source

Photos

IWF 2024 Challengers Award winners group photo

IWF 2024 Design Emphasis Best in Show winner display

Challengers Award winner Northtech at IWF 2024

DLW Station, Best in Show winner at IWF 2024 Design Emphasis

Testimonials

IWF 2024 met or exceeded all show expectations for 93% of buyer attendees.
IWF 2024 Show Performance Research · Post-Show Survey · Bishop-Goebel Research · 2024

94% of all 1,094 exhibitors say IWF 2024 exceeded or greatly exceeded their show performance expectations.
IWF 2024 Show Performance Research · Post-Show Survey · Bishop-Goebel Research · 2024

IWF 2024 delivered well-qualified buyer attendees important to their business for 87% of exhibitors.
IWF 2024 Show Performance Research · Post-Show Survey · Bishop-Goebel Research · 2024

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

IWF 2024 reinforced its position as the premier global event for the woodworking industry, driving significant business and innovation. The show generated high satisfaction among both exhibitors and attendees, with 94% of exhibitors reporting that the event exceeded their performance expectations and 93% of buyer attendees saying it met or exceeded all expectations. The event's 1M+ square-foot footprint and nearly 1,100 exhibitors underscored its scale and importance as a hub for networking, deal-making, and product discovery.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

IWF 2024 attracted a high-quality, decision-making audience. Post-show research revealed that 87% of buyer attendees said the show delivered high-quality exhibitors important to their business, and 86% discovered a superior selection of technology-driven products. The event drew an estimated 26,000 attendees from across the entire woodworking industry, including nearly 16,000 buyer attendees. The audience spanned every U.S. state and numerous countries, with 83% naming IWF as North American woodworking's must-attend show and their primary source for discovering product innovations.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors reported strong return on investment, with 94% of all 1,094 exhibitors saying IWF 2024 exceeded or greatly exceeded their show performance expectations. The show's ability to attract qualified buyers was highlighted by 87% of buyer attendees confirming they found high-quality exhibitors important to their business. The event facilitated substantial business activity across more than 540 product categories, with exhibitors showcasing operating machinery, services, and supplies.

Intelligence

Exhibitors

1,002

Exhibitors

Top exhibitor countries

Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

United States
675
China
108
Canada
52
Turkey
28
Taiwan
18
Italy
17
Germany
14
India
7
Brazil
6
United Kingdom
6

~68% of listed exhibitors are from United States.

Category breakdown

1,002Exhibitors

1~269

estimate

2~99

estimate

3~91

estimate

National pavilions

United States

~675 stands

estimate

China

~108 stands

estimate

Canada

~52 stands

estimate

Turkey

~26 stands

estimate

Taiwan

~18 stands

estimate

Italy

~17 stands

estimate

Germany

~14 stands

estimate

India

~7 stands

estimate

Brazil

~6 stands

estimate

United Kingdom

~6 stands

estimate

50312

~5 stands

estimate

Czechia

~5 stands

estimate

Vietnam

~4 stands

estimate

Portugal

~3 stands

estimate

Unknown

~3 stands

estimate

Buyer targets

High priority

Buyers sourcing

Other Woodworking Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Adhesives, Coatings & Finishing Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Hardwood, Lumber & Veneer Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Cabinet, Kitchen & Closet Manufacturing Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Plywood & Panel Products Suppliers

Medium priority

Buyers sourcing

Woodworking Suppliers (profile Pending)

Buyers sourcing

Wood Tooling & Cutting Tool Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

General Woodworking Machinery & Equipment Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

CNC Router & Machining Center Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Dust Collection & Air Filtration Suppliers

Intelligence

Market context

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

North America (United States, Canada, Mexico) with strong international participation from Europe, Asia, and South America

Why it matters

The woodworking industry in 2026 is navigating a complex landscape of rapid technological change, shifting market demands, and evolving sustainability requirements. Mass timber adoption is accelerating with over 2,700 projects nationwide, creating new opportunities for machinery, tooling, and component suppliers. Automation and AI are becoming accessible to shops of all sizes, with major exhibitors like Stiles and WEINIG showcasing integrated production systems and smart scanning technologies that address labour shortages and rising costs. The residential market remains bifurcated – new home construction faces headwinds, but renovation activity is strong with 54% of homeowners undertaking projects. IWF Atlanta 2026 serves as the critical North American gathering point where these trends converge, offering a platform for buyers and sellers to connect, evaluate new technologies, and shape the industry's direction. With over 950 exhibitors registered and the debut of the Mass Timber Showcase, IWF 2026 reflects an industry in transformation – one where sustainability, automation, and digital integration are no longer optional but essential.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Mass Timber Adoption Accelerates

Mass timber is experiencing rapid growth across the United States, with 2,746 mass timber projects built, under construction, or in design phase as of 2026 – growing roughly 20% year over year. IWF 2026 debuts a dedicated Mass Timber & Prefabricated Construction Products Showcase featuring 32 exhibitors, with over 60 companies overall offering mass timber products or services.

Source

Automation and Robotics Democratization

Automation is no longer only for the largest operations – it is becoming a staged investment path for shops of all sizes. Stiles Machinery will showcase over 60 machines at IWF 2026 covering CNC routing, panel dividing, edgebanding, robotics, and digital production, addressing labour gaps, rising costs, and increasing customisation demands.

Source

AI and Digital Transformation in Wood Processing

Artificial intelligence is reshaping modern sawmill and woodworking operations. WEINIG's SOLID SCAN T 5000, powered by OptiCore AI 2.0, processes up to 250 boards per minute for real-time defect detection and timber recovery optimisation. AI-powered scanning systems are becoming essential for improving raw material utilisation and reducing waste.

Source

Data Centers and Infrastructure Driving Construction

Data centers and infrastructure projects are currently a major driver of building activity, creating significant opportunities for woodworking suppliers in areas such as millwork, cabinetry, and specialty components.

Source

Home Renovation Market Sustains Demand

Despite a lagging new build market, home renovation remains robust. More than half of US homeowners – 54% – are undertaking renovation projects according to the 2026 Houzz & Home Study. Two in five Americans renovated their home in the past year, providing steady demand for woodworking products.

Source

Connected, Integrated Production Systems

The industry is shifting from isolated machines to connected, integrated production systems. IWF 2026 exhibitors like Stiles Machinery are presenting edgebanding, robotics, software, and mass timber systems as parts of a larger production strategy rather than standalone products.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

WEINIG to Showcase AI-Powered SOLID SCAN T 5000 at IWF Atlanta 2026

Read

Innovations & Ideas on Tap at IWF 2026

Read

Stiles Machinery to Bring Automation, CNC, Mass Timber and Smart Production Solutions to IWF 2026

Read

Mass Timber Takes Center Stage at IWF 2026

Read

Berkshire Hathaway Doubles Down on Home Business

Read

More Than Half of Homeowners Doing Renovation Projects

Read

Global Woodworking & Furniture Manufacturing Trade Show Circuit 2026–2027

August 2026 – May 2027

The woodworking industry's major trade shows follow a biennial or annual rhythm across key manufacturing regions. IWF Atlanta (even years) anchors the North American market, while LIGNA Hannover (odd years) serves as the global flagship. Regional shows like Xylexpo (Italy), Holz-Handwerk (Germany), and AWFS Fair (USA) provide additional touchpoints for machinery, materials, and design professionals.

24–27 Mar 2026

Holz-Handwerk 2026

Nuremberg, Germany

Focuses on custom and mass production, machinery and tools for woodworking.

website

9–12 Jun 2026

Xylexpo 2026

Milan, Italy

Held at FieraMilano-Rho exhibition centre. Co-located with Plast – the exhibition for plastic materials technologies – bridging toward multi-material solutions.

website

25–28 Aug 2026

IWF Atlanta 2026 (International Woodworking Fair)

Atlanta, USA

Features 950+ exhibitors, 26,000+ attendees, Mass Timber Showcase, Challengers Award, Design Emphasis competition. Theme: 'Power Up Your Business.'

website

18–20 Sep 2026

MumbaiWood 2026

Mumbai, India

Co-located with INDEXPLUS. Serves the rapidly growing Indian woodworking and furniture manufacturing sector.

website

7–9 Mar 2027

Dubai WoodShow 2027

Dubai, UAE

Annual event attracting global exhibitors and buyers from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

website

10–14 May 2027

LIGNA 2027

Hannover, Germany

Exhibition space already over 80% booked, confirming its position as the global industry flagship.

website

20–23 Jul 2027

AWFS Fair 2027

Las Vegas, USA

Alternates with IWF Atlanta as the major U.S. woodworking show. Held at Las Vegas Convention Center.

website

25–27 Aug 2027

IWF West 2027

San Antonio, USA

Launched by IWF organisers to meet growing demand for a trade show experience between biennial Atlanta stagings. Located at Henry B. González Convention Center.

website

Spring 2026 (Europe Focus)

Holz-Handwerk 2026

Early-year European events for machinery and materials sourcing.

Summer 2026 (North America Focus)

IWF Atlanta 2026

Peak North American woodworking show season; IWF is the largest biennial event.

Fall 2026 (Asia & Global Focus)

MumbaiWood 2026

Asia-focused events serving growing manufacturing bases.

Spring 2027 (Europe Global Flagship)

LIGNA 2027Dubai WoodShow 2027

LIGNA is the world's largest woodworking show; Dubai WoodShow serves Middle East and Africa.

Summer 2027 (North America Regional)

AWFS Fair 2027IWF West 2027

Odd-year North American events: AWFS Las Vegas and the debut IWF West in San Antonio.

Event dates and positions sourced from official event websites and industry publications. Some 2027 dates are confirmed by organisers; check individual event websites for the latest updates.

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

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

ATL

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

The primary airport for Atlanta, located about 10 miles south of downtown. Direct MARTA rail service from the airport to the GWCC/CNN Center station (Gold/Red lines) is the fastest and least expensive option. Taxis and rideshares are also readily available, with a typical fare of $40-$50.

10 miles

to venue

14-16 minutes

by car

PDK

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport

A general aviation airport located northeast of Atlanta, primarily serving private and corporate aircraft. Not a practical choice for commercial airline passengers, but useful for those arriving by private jet.

18 miles

to venue

25-35 minutes

by car

FTY

Fulton County Airport

A general aviation airport located southwest of downtown Atlanta. Serves corporate and private aviation, but does not handle commercial flights.

8 miles

to venue

20-25 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

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

budget

Downtown

USD 149–172 / night

Courtland Grand (Sheraton) Atlanta at $149, Holiday Inn Express Downtown at $172, and AC Hotel Marriott at $192. Walking distance to GWCC or complimentary shuttle service.

mid range

Downtown

USD 155–180 / night

Marriott Courtyard Atlanta Downtown at $155, Marriott Marquis at $159, Hilton Atlanta & Towers at $160, Hyatt Regency Atlanta at $164, Doubletree Downtown at $166, Hotel Indigo Downtown at $174, and Aloft Atlanta Downtown at $180. All offer shuttle service to GWCC.

premium

Downtown

USD 191–205 / night

Ritz Carlton Atlanta Downtown at $191, Hyatt House Downtown at $191, and Signia by Hilton Atlanta at $205. Signia is directly connected to GWCC; Ritz Carlton and Hyatt House offer shuttle service.

mid range

Midtown

USD 158–164 / night

Marriott Suites Midtown and Starling (W Midtown) offer rates around $158-$164. Accessible via MARTA rail.

premium

Buckhead

USD 166–169 / night

JW Marriott Buckhead and Hotel Colee (W Buckhead) offer rates around $166-$169. Accessible via MARTA rail.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)

Estimated cost$2.50 per one-way trip (includes transfers)

Best forRail and bus network connecting airport, downtown, midtown, and Buckhead. Two stations serve GWCC: Arena/Dome/GWCC Station and GWCC/CNN Center Station.

Most efficient and affordable option from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to GWCC. Trains operate frequently during show hours.

IWF Complimentary Shuttle

Estimated costFree (complimentary)

Best forDesignated downtown and midtown hotels to GWCC

Operates between selected IWF official hotels and the Georgia World Congress Center. Schedule posted online and in hotel lobbies. Drop-off and pick-up at Building C Lobby and International Entrance Transportation Hub.

Atlanta Streetcar

Estimated costVaries; check streetcar website for fare

Best for2.7-mile loop with 12 stops connecting Centennial Olympic Park (near GWCC) to Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Convenient for downtown exploration and accessing restaurants, hotels, and attractions near GWCC.

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Estimated costVaries by distance and demand

Best forPick-up and drop-off locations designated on GWCC Navigation page

Available throughout Atlanta. Use designated rideshare zones at GWCC for efficient pick-up and drop-off.

Walking

Estimated costFree

Best forFrom downtown hotels to GWCC

Many downtown hotels are within easy walking distance of the Georgia World Congress Center. Sidewalks and crosswalks are well-maintained.

On-Campus Parking (GWCC)

Estimated cost$15.00 pre-purchased daily; $20.00 at entry; Marshalling yard: $30 pre-purchased daily

Best forSeven on-campus parking lots and decks: Red Deck, Orange Deck, Green Deck, Blue Lot, Yellow Lot, and marshalling yard

Cashless payment only. Multi-day pre-purchase packages available for move-in, move-out, and show days. Reserve spots via gwcc.parkingguide.com.

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa not required

ATA Carnet: check with organiser

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 Business Visitor visa (for countries not in Visa Waiver Program)		—

27 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program, allowing visa-free stays up to 90 days for business/tourism. See travel.state.gov for current list.

Official visa page

Weather

August in Atlanta is hot and humid, with average high temperatures around 88-91°F (31-33°C) and lows around 70-72°F (21-22°C). The city experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms, with August being part of the wetter season. Average rainfall is about 4.3 inches (129 mm). Attendees should prepare for warm, sticky conditions both indoors and outdoors.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Georgia World Congress Center is exceptionally well-connected. MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) provides direct rail service to the GWCC/CNN Center station (W-1) on the Blue and Green lines, with a single fare of $2.50. The station is directly connected to the convention center. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has a MARTA station, offering a direct, fast, and inexpensive link to the venue. The venue is also within walking distance of many downtown hotels and is easily accessible by taxi, rideshare, and rental car.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Tipping Culture

Tipping is customary in the United States. For restaurants, a tip of 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for table service. For taxi and rideshare drivers, 15-20% is also customary, while hotel staff (bellhops, housekeeping) are typically tipped a few dollars per bag or per night.

Language

English is the primary language. IWF operates an International Buyers Lounge with interpreters available for short-term consultation in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, Japanese, and Chinese.

Business Etiquette

Business attire in Atlanta is generally professional but can be slightly more relaxed than in some other major U.S. cities. For a trade show like IWF, business casual is common, though some may opt for more formal attire for meetings. Punctuality is expected.

Currency and Payments

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, some major downtown hotels, and large banks, but not on-site at the GWCC.

Electricity

The standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. Power sockets are Type A and B (the standard North American two- and three-prong plugs). International visitors will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

ATL is a major international hub with direct flights from many global cities. Book flights well in advance for the best rates, especially during the peak summer travel season. Allow ample time for connections, as ATL is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Visa

Official

Transport

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

Airport → venue: MARTA rail (Gold/Red Line to Five Points, transfer to Blue/Green Line to GWCC/CNN Center station) – $2.50 one-way. Taxi/rideshare ~$40-$50, 14-16 minutes.

Hotel → venue: Complimentary IWF shuttle from designated downtown/midtown hotels; walking from downtown hotels; MARTA rail from midtown/Buckhead hotels.

Ride-hail: Uber/Lyft available with designated pick-up/drop-off zones at GWCC.

Public transit: MARTA rail and bus network ($2.50 one-way); Atlanta Streetcar (downtown loop).

Parking: On-campus parking at GWCC: $15 pre-purchased daily, $20 at entry. Cashless only. Reserve via gwcc.parkingguide.com. Marshalling yard for trucks: $30 pre-purchased daily.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: August

Temperature: 70–91°F (21–33°C)

Seasonality: Frequent afternoon thunderstorms; part of the wetter season

Packing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella or raincoat, and a light layer for air-conditioned indoor spaces.

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Wednesday is the second day of the show, after the opening-day rush but before the Friday half-day closure. All exhibitors are fully set up, education sessions are in full swing, and the IWF Night At The Tabernacle networking event takes place in the evening. This provides the best balance of exhibit access, learning opportunities, and networking.

T-90

Register for IWF 2026 to secure early-bird rate ($25) before July 31 — Advance registration closes July 31, 2026; on-site fee increases to $50.

T-60

Book flights and hotel through the official IWF housing partner (Maritz) — IWF has negotiated special rates at Atlanta hotels; book during show registration.

T-45

Confirm visa or ESTA eligibility for entry to the U.S. — ESTA required for VWP countries; B-1 visa for others. Apply early.

T-30

Shortlist target exhibitors and education sessions — Review the exhibitor list and IWF Education Conference schedule.

T-21

Prepare meeting requests and follow-up templates — Reach out to exhibitors and schedule booth visits in advance.

T-14

Download the IWF app or digital show directory — Access floor plans, exhibitor listings, and session schedules.

T-7

Check Atlanta weather and pack accordingly — August is hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; bring layers for air-conditioned halls.

T-3

Confirm travel, hotel, and registration details — Print or save badge confirmation and travel documents.

T-1

Review show hours and plan daily route — Show hours: Tue–Thu 8:30am–5:00pm, Fri 8:30am–2:00pm; Building A opens 7:30am.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

8:00 AM

Arrive at GWCC; grab coffee and review floor plan

Georgia World Congress Center

8:30 AM

Opening of show floor; visit priority exhibitors in Hall A (Machinery & Mass Timber)

Hall A

10:30 AM

Attend an Education Conference session (e.g., Business Management track)

Education Session Room

12:00 PM

Lunch break at Centennial Olympic Park or on-site café

Centennial Olympic Park or GWCC Food Court

1:30 PM

Continue exhibit hall exploration in Hall B and Hall C; attend live machinery demos

Halls B & C

3:30 PM

Visit the International Buyers Lounge for translation assistance or networking

International Buyers Lounge

5:00 PM

Show floor closes; attend IWF Night At The Tabernacle (Wednesday evening)

The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St NW

6:30 PM

Networking dinner with industry peers at a downtown Atlanta restaurant

Downtown Atlanta

Side trips

Centennial Olympic Park

Park

Adjacent to GWCC (0.1 mi)

A 21-acre public park built for the 1996 Olympics, featuring the Fountain of Rings, walking paths, and event spaces. A great spot for a lunch break or evening stroll.

World of Coca-Cola

Museum

0.5 mi / 10-min walk

Explore the history of Coca-Cola, taste over 100 beverages from around the world, and see the vault where the secret formula is kept.

College Football Hall of Fame

Museum

0.3 mi / 6-min walk

An interactive museum celebrating college football, featuring a 45-yard indoor football field and skill challenges.

Georgia Aquarium

Aquarium

0.5 mi / 10-min walk

One of the largest aquariums in the world, home to whale sharks, beluga whales, and thousands of other marine species.

SkyView Atlanta

Attraction

0.4 mi / 8-min walk

A 200-foot Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of downtown Atlanta and the GWCC.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Historical Site

1.5 mi / 30-min walk or MARTA

Visit the birthplace, church, and grave of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – a powerful and moving experience.

Networking spots

IWF Night At The Tabernacle

Official Party

The official IWF show party with live music and open bar service at The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, from 8:00–11:00 pm on Wednesday, August 26.

IWF Beer Garden

On-site Social

Sponsored by WEINIG HOLZ-HER, located just inside the Andrew Young International Boulevard entrance, offering food and beverages.

International Buyers Lounge

Networking Lounge

Located on-site with interpreters available in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, Japanese, and Chinese for short-term consultation.

Exhibitor Booths with Demo Areas

Exhibit Hall

Many exhibitors host live demonstrations and informal networking at their booths – a great way to connect with industry peers.

Education Conference Sessions

Education

Sessions provide a classroom setting for learning and networking with fellow attendees and presenters.

Budget

Costs & budget

Shell scheme

—

Raw space

USD 196.43 / m²

Standard booth

9 m²

For returning exhibitors who contracted for IWF 2022 and/or IWF 2024, the cost is $18.25 per sq. ft. of exhibit space. Converted to per sqm (1 sq ft = 0.092903 sqm): $18.25 / 0.092903 ≈ $196.43 per sqm. Other rates available on Cost to Exhibit page.

source

Cost reference

Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

exhibit_space_returning

exhibitor · Returning Exhibitor

USD 18.25 / per sq ft

officialAs of 2026-02-13

exhibit_space_new

exhibitor · New Exhibitor

USD 20.75 / per sq ft

officialAs of 2026-02-13

exhibit_space_5000plus

exhibitor · 5000+ sq ft

USD 4.3 / per sq ft (additional over 5,000)

officialAs of 2026-02-13

contract_processing_fee

exhibitor · One-time

USD 150 / per contract

officialAs of 2026-02-13

attendee_registration_advance

visitor · Advance (until July 31)

USD 25 / per person

officialAs of 2026-07-31

attendee_registration_onsite

visitor · On-site (from August 1)

USD 50 / per person

officialAs of 2026-08-01

hotel_budget

both · Budget

USD 149–172 / per night

estimateAs of 2026-07-28

hotel_mid

both · Mid-Range

USD 155–180 / per night

estimateAs of 2026-07-28

hotel_premium

both · Premium

USD 191–205 / per night

estimateAs of 2026-07-28

parking_daily

both · On-campus

USD 15–20 / per day

officialAs of 2026-07-28

marta_fare

both · Public transit

USD 2.5 / one-way

officialAs of 2026-07-28

Item	For	Tier	Estimated range	Status	As of
exhibit_space_returning	exhibitor	Returning Exhibitor	USD 18.25 / per sq ft	official	2026-02-13
exhibit_space_new	exhibitor	New Exhibitor	USD 20.75 / per sq ft	official	2026-02-13
exhibit_space_5000plus	exhibitor	5000+ sq ft	USD 4.3 / per sq ft (additional over 5,000)	official	2026-02-13
contract_processing_fee	exhibitor	One-time	USD 150 / per contract	official	2026-02-13
attendee_registration_advance	visitor	Advance (until July 31)	USD 25 / per person	official	2026-07-31
attendee_registration_onsite	visitor	On-site (from August 1)	USD 50 / per person	official	2026-08-01
hotel_budget	both	Budget	USD 149–172 / per night	estimate	2026-07-28
hotel_mid	both	Mid-Range	USD 155–180 / per night	estimate	2026-07-28
hotel_premium	both	Premium	USD 191–205 / per night	estimate	2026-07-28
parking_daily	both	On-campus	USD 15–20 / per day	official	2026-07-28
marta_fare	both	Public transit	USD 2.5 / one-way	official	2026-07-28

Decision

Visit, exhibit, or skip?

Should you go?

Answer 8 quick questions to get a personalized recommendation on whether to visit, exhibit, or skip IWF Atlanta 2026.

QUESTION 1 OF 8

Is your primary market or buyer base located in North America?

Decision matrix

Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

visit

You are evaluating new machinery, materials, or suppliers; need education on industry trends; or want to meet potential partners before committing to a larger investment.

Best for

Woodworking professionals, designers, architects, and buyers looking to discover new products, attend education sessions, and network with industry peers.

Min. budget

$500.00

Timeline

1–3 months

Risks

Travel and accommodation costs can add up quickly

Large show floor can be overwhelming without a plan

Limited access to exhibitor-only events

exhibit

You have a new product to launch, want to penetrate the U.S. market, or need to maintain relationships with existing North American clients. IWF attracts 26,000+ attendees from 47+ countries.

Best for

Woodworking machinery manufacturers, tooling suppliers, material providers, and automation companies seeking to generate leads, launch products, and strengthen brand presence in North America.

Min. budget

$5,000.00

Timeline

6–9 months

Risks

Higher upfront investment (booth space, design, freight, staff)

Competition from 1,000+ other exhibitors

Logistical challenges with freight and setup

skip

Your target audience is outside North America, your product does not fit the woodworking/design categories, or you lack the budget or staffing to participate effectively.

Best for

Companies not aligned with woodworking, with limited budget, or focused on other geographic markets.

Timeline

N/A

Risks

Missing out on industry trends and competitor intelligence

Potential loss of market visibility

May fall behind competitors who attend

Book with

Partners

Maritz Global Events

Official Housing & Registration Partner

Maritz is the only official housing partner for IWF. Book hotel rooms through IWF and Maritz to secure low rates and personalized customer service.

Visit partner Confidence: high

Identified as official housing partner on IWF 'Where to Stay' page.

GES

Official General Service Contractor

GES is the official service contractor for IWF, providing exhibitor services, material handling, and booth installation support.

Visit partner Confidence: high

Mentioned in exhibitor preparation materials.

SWAP by Maritz

Official Lead Retrieval Provider

Complimentary SWAP lead management system available to exhibitors who order by June 2, 2026 (use code IWFSWAP2026).

Visit partner Confidence: high

Lead retrieval system offered through the Exhibitor Resource Center.

Recommended providers

Hotels

Maritz Global Events

Official housing and registration partner for IWF. All hotel bookings must be made through the IWF registration process to secure official rates. No deposit required at booking, but credit card guarantee needed. Cancellation policy: 72-hour notice.

Freight & shipping

GES

GES is the official service contractor for freight handling and material services. Advance order deadlines and discount packages available.

Insurance

Multiple providers accepted

Exhibitors must obtain general liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence) and name IWF Management as Additional Insured.

Lead capture

SWAP by Maritz

Complimentary SWAP lead management system available if ordered by June 2, 2026 (code: IWFSWAP2026). Order through Exhibitor Resource Center.

Gallery

Photos

IWF 2024 Challengers Award winners group photo

IWF 2024 Design Emphasis Best in Show winner display

Challengers Award winner Northtech at IWF 2024

DLW Station, Best in Show winner at IWF 2024 Design Emphasis

FAQs & glossary

Answers

Frequently asked

What is the cost to register to attend IWF?

Advance registration is $25.00, offered March 3–July 31, 2026. Starting at 12:01 am August 1 through the end of the show on August 28, 2026, registration is $50.00.

How much does it cost to exhibit?

For returning exhibitors who contracted for IWF 2022 and/or IWF 2024, the cost is $18.25 per sq. ft. of exhibit space. Rates vary for other exhibitor types.

Can children attend IWF?

No one under the age of 16 is permitted on the exhibit floor for safety and insurance reasons. No exceptions.

Is IWF open to the public?

No. IWF is open only to industry trade professionals and serious woodworking enthusiasts.

How do I get to the Georgia World Congress Center?

The GWCC is located at 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard in downtown Atlanta. From the airport, you can use MARTA (Atlanta’s rapid rail system), take a cab/rideshare or rent a car.

What hotels are available?

IWF has negotiated special rates at Atlanta hotels just for IWF participants. You can book your hotel during your show registration process. Housing closes July 24, 2026.

How can I find out if a certain company is exhibiting?

Use the search tool on our website, or check our exhibitor listings.

Where is the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC)? How do I get there?

The GWCC is located at 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard in downtown Atlanta. It is within easy walking distance of most downtown hotels. From the airport, you can use MARTA (Atlanta’s rapid rail system), take a cab/rideshare or rent a car.

What hotels are available?

IWF has negotiated special rates at Atlanta hotels just for IWF participants. You can book your hotel during your show registration process.

How much does it cost to exhibit?

For returning exhibitors who contracted for IWF 2022 and/or IWF 2024, the cost is $18.25 per sq. ft. of exhibit space. Get rates for all types of exhibitors and spaces on our Cost to Exhibit page.

Glossary

IWF: International Woodworking Fair, North America's largest woodworking technology and design trade show.
GWCC: Georgia World Congress Center, the venue hosting IWF in Atlanta, GA.
Mass Timber: Engineered wood products used in structural applications, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam).
MARTA: Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, the city's public rail system offering access to the GWCC.
ERC: Exhibitor Resource Center, an online portal for exhibitors to manage registration, housing, lead retrieval, and show services.

Trust footer

Sources

References

Publishers

Date checked

IWF

IWF Atlanta

Woodworking Network

Wood & Panel USA

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