What is leat con and how does it differ from a traditional trade fair?

leat con is the Experience Technology Convention that combines a trade fair and a conference. It is not a traditional single-sector trade fair but a platform that brings together five distinct sectors — live tech, stage tech, broadcast, install and communicate — across five hubs. The organiser states that exhibition and convention are equally important: for 2026, seven stages, workshops, training areas, demo rooms, masterclasses and side events are planned as the core of the event, not as a supporting programme. Source:

When and where does leat con 26 take place?

leat con 26 takes place from 6 to 8 October 2026 at Hamburg Messe, Hamburg, Germany, in Halls A1, A2 and A4. This is the first edition to occupy three halls, with over 20,000 sqm of exhibition space. Source:

What ticket options are available for leat con 26?

Tickets for 2026 include: floor pass (1 day: 45 €, 3 days: 99 €) with access to all halls, stages, workshop areas, live training, demo rooms and community events including free drinks; backstage pass (299 €, limited) with all 3-day floor pass benefits plus 3 masterclasses, 2 side events, a special guided tour, 3 meal vouchers and a limited-edition leat jumper; and next gen pass (1 day: 15 €, 3 days: 39 €) for students, school pupils and trainees with proof of eligibility. A limited free connect pass pre-opening promotion ran from 5 June 2026 and is sold out. Source:

Can I exhibit at leat con 26 and what does the stand package include?

Exhibitor booking for leat con 26 is open with an early-bird rate valid until 10 April 2026. The all-inclusive stand package starts at 489€/m² and includes stand space, shell scheme with back-wall print, lighting, basic furniture (1 table + 4 chairs), carpet, cleaning, 3kW power connection including consumption, exhibitor profile with logo, free visitor tickets (1 per m²), exhibitor passes (1 per 6 m²), media and communication, and the environmental fee. Contact booking@leatcon.com for enquiries. Source:

Is there a lead-capture or badge-scanning product available for exhibitors?

No organiser-provided or organiser-approved lead-capture product, badge scanner, or lead-retrieval service was named on the official leat con 26 exhibitor pages, FAQ, AGB, or exhibitor booking PDF at the time of research. The official exhibitor portal/order shop is not publicly documented with lead-capture product details.

How do I get to Hamburg Messe and where can I park?

Hamburg Messe is in the city centre and easy to reach by public transport. Four stations are within walking distance: Dammtor (S2, S5), Sternschanze (S2, S5, U3), Messehallen (U2) and Stephansplatz (U1). A single hvv ticket costs about EUR 4; a day ticket is about EUR 7–9. Parking facilities on the exhibition grounds are limited; recommended options include Parkhaus Mitte (EUR 16/day), Tiefgarage Ost (EUR 16/day) and Heiligengeistfeld (EUR 5/day). Public car parks include Bei den Kirchhöfen, Lagerstraße and Tiergartenstr. 2. Parking spaces for disabled visitors are available in the A-area via gate A3.

What are the main hubs at leat con 26 and what topics do they cover?

leat con 26 is divided into five hubs, each with its own programme, stage and community. live tech covers traditional event technology including audio, lighting, rigging and video with practical application focus. install is the ProAV platform covering system integration, digital signage, workspace solutions and AV over IP. stage tech makes its debut as a dedicated area for stage technology professionals covering stage machinery, drive technology, control systems and scenic integration. broadcast focuses on AI and future workflows, IP workflows, cloud and hybrid production models. communicate debuts in 2026 bringing the ICT sector — cloud telephony, UCC and B2B communication — into dialogue with AV. Source:

LeATcon 2026 | TradeShowIntel

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at LeATcon 2026 include A.D.J Supply Europe, AbsenLive, Actionlight Veranstaltungstechnik GmbH, Adam Hall and AED UK.

A.D.J Supply Europe
AbsenLive
Actionlight Veranstaltungstechnik GmbH
Adam Hall
AED UK

Event overview

Overview

LEaT con 26 positions itself as a networking convention rather than a traditional trade fair, bringing together five distinct but increasingly interconnected sectors across five hubs: live tech, stage tech, broadcast, install and communicate.

The exhibition and convention are treated as equally important, with seven stages, workshops, training areas, demo rooms, masterclasses and side events planned for 2026 as the core of the event

TL;DR

1LEaT con 26 runs 6–8 October 2026 at Hamburg Messe, Halls A1, A2
2The convention combines exhibition and congress around five hubs: live tech, stage tech, broadcast
3Over 150 speakers deliver talks, workshops, live training and community formats across seven stages
42026 marks the fifth edition and the debut of the communicate Hub, which brings
5The stage tech Hub launches as a dedicated area for stage machinery, drive technology

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Live event and production professionals working with audio, lighting, rigging and touring workflows in the live tech Hub

System integrators, AV planners and end users from businesses, institutions and the education sector in the install Hub

Technical managers, set designers and stage technology professionals in the newly launched stage tech Hub

Broadcast and media production professionals focused on IP workflows, cloud and AI-supported production

IT service providers, telecoms retailers, manufacturers, distributors and sales professionals in the business communication market served by the communicate Hub

Corporate media, TV and media production house staff exploring UCC room solutions and collaboration technology

Professionals seeking continuing education through workshops, masterclasses, live training and community talks

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Manufacturers and brands in live event technology, including audio, lighting, rigging and control systems

Stage technology suppliers, including stage machinery, drive systems and control system providers such as ASM Steuerungstechnik, Layher, SCALA stage systems & services and Waagner-Biro Stage System

ProAV and system integration vendors covering digital signage, workspace solutions and AV over IP

Broadcast technology and media production solution providers addressing IP, cloud and AI workflows

ICT, UCC and cloud telephony providers targeting the B2B communication market via the communicate Hub

Specialist suppliers in scenic technology, effects and related experience technology segments

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Audio

Lighting

Rigging

Video

Stage construction

Control systems

Scenic technology

Stage machinery

Drive technology

Media technology

Signal processing

Streaming

Production solutions

AI-supported production workflows

IP workflows

Cloud production

Hybrid production models

AV system integration

Corporate AV

Digital signage

AV over IP

Workspace solutions

Hybrid installations

UCC room solutions

Cloud telephony

Collaboration platforms

B2B communication solutions

Network marketing

Integrated communication solutions

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

A1A2A4

Hamburg Messe

Messeplatz 1, 20357 Hamburg, Germany

Entrances & gates

Messe-Eingang Mitte

A1A2A4

Main visitor entrance for leat con 26; address Rentzelstraße 1, 20357 Hamburg. A direct access to Hall A2 opens for the 2026 edition to optimise visitor flow

Eingang bei Tor A3

A1A2A4

Additional entrance listed for leat con 26 via Tor A3; also used for disabled visitor parking access in the A-area. Source:

Facilities

Parking

Around 3,500 parking spaces are available at the exhibition centre, with 126 EV charging stations across four locations. The recommended Parkhaus Mitte (closest to the convention) and Tiefgarage Ost cost EUR 16/day; Heiligengeistfeld costs EUR 5/day. Additional public car parks include Bei den Kirchhöfen (EUR 2/hour, max EUR 16/day), Lagerstraße (EUR 2/hour, max EUR 16/day) and Tiergartenstr. 2 (EUR 3/hour, max EUR 25/day). Parking spaces for disabled visitors are available in the A-area via gate A3.

3,500 spaces · €16.00/day

Accessibility

Hamburg Messe is fully wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. Accessible parking spaces are available in the A-area (halls A1–A4) via gate A3, subject to availability. All halls have lifts, accessible toilets and hearing loop systems. Visitors with reduced mobility can find comprehensive information on the Hamburg Messe website.

Prayer rooms

A quiet room open to people of all faiths is available during trade fair opening hours on the ground floor of the East Entrance of Hamburg Messe.

Cloakroom

Cloakrooms are available in Foyer Entrance East, Foyer Entrance West, Foyer Entrance South and Foyer Central Entrance. Storing clothing and luggage costs approximately EUR 3.50 per item. Cloakrooms are open one hour before the official opening hours until one hour after official closing hours.

Luggage storage

Lockers are available in two sizes (27 x 50 cm and 56 x 50 cm) at EUR 1.00 per locker, coins required. Lockers are located in the same foyer areas as the cloakrooms. Contents of suitcases, bags and clothes are not covered by insurance.

Charging points

126 EV charging stations are available at four locations across the Hamburg Messe grounds. In the Central Car Park (Parkhaus Mitte), there are four 50 kW charging stations and 58 22 kW charging stations. The Underground Garage East has two fast chargers (DC 400 kW, four charging points) and 60 charging stations, while the Underground Car Park West has 30 charging points. All are public charging infrastructure with standard rates.

On-site shuttle

No official on-site shuttle service is provided at Hamburg Messe for leat con 26. The venue is within walking distance of three U-Bahn/S-Bahn stations and the Dammtor ICE/IC long-distance rail station, making a shuttle unnecessary.

Food options

Harbour Light, Mercadillo, Restaurant Kiel, Snackbar Pick Up

On-site dining

Parking: Hamburg Messe has around 3,500 parking spaces on the exhibition grounds, but parking is sometimes scarce during fairs, so public transport or Park+Ride is recommended. Recommended parking: Parkhaus Mitte (EUR 16/day, nearest to the convention), Tiefgarage Ost (EUR 16/day) and Heiligengeistfeld (EUR 5/day). Additional public car parks include Bei den Kirchhöfen (entrance B5, EUR 2/hour, max EUR 16/day, 880 spaces, 24/7), Lagerstraße (EUR 2/hour, max EUR 16/day, 900 spaces, 24/7) and Tiergartenstr. 2 (EUR 3/hour, max EUR 25/day, 700 spaces, 24/7). Around 126 charging stations for e-vehicles are available at four locations. Parking spaces for disabled visitors/wheelchair users are available in the A-area (halls A1-A4) via gate A3 in Lagerstraße, subject to availability.

Gate: The main entrance to leat con 26 is the central entrance ('Eingang Mitte') at Rentzelstraße 1, 20357 Hamburg. In addition to the central entrance, a direct access to the newly added Hall A2 opens for 2026 to optimise visitor flow. The venue also has East (Bei den Kirchhöfen), South (Karolinenstraße) and West (Lagerstraße) entrances.

Attend

Entry & tickets

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Tuesday, 6 October 2026:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, followed by Networking Night from 18:00

Wednesday, 7 October 2026:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, 8 October 2026:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

floor pass (1 day)
Access to all halls, stages, workshop areas, live training sessions, demo rooms and community events, including free drinks. Source:
€45.00
floor pass (3 days)
Access to all halls, stages, workshop areas, live training sessions, demo rooms and community events, including free drinks. Source:
€99.00
backstage pass (3 days, limited)
Premium ticket including all 3-day floor pass benefits, 3 masterclasses of choice, 2 side events focused on a Hamburg tech highlight, a special guided tour with the leat team, 3 meal vouchers (1 per day) and a limited-edition leat jumper. Source:
€299.00
next gen pass (1 day)
Discounted education ticket for students, school pupils and trainees; includes all floor pass benefits. Proof of eligibility required upon purchase. Source:
€15.00
next gen pass (3 days)
Discounted education ticket for students, school pupils and trainees; includes all floor pass benefits. Proof of eligibility required upon purchase. Source:
€39.00

Ticket info

Ticket notes

leat con 26 is not a traditional single-sector trade fair but an Experience Technology Convention open to industry professionals and, via the discounted next gen pass, to students, school pupils and trainees (proof of eligibility required). Tickets grant access to all halls, stages, workshop areas, live training sessions, demo rooms and community events, including a free-drinks flat rate. A limited free connect pass pre-opening promotion ran from 5 June 2026 and is sold out; regular ticket sales started on 15 June 2026. Early-bird pricing was available until 31 July 2026. A limited-time goodie promotion accompanies ticket purchases while stocks last.

Who runs the show

Organisers

Ebner Media Group GmbH & Co. KG

Organiser

Website

Neue Mediengesellschaft Zürich AG

Co-organiser

Website

Duc Nguyen

Sales Director leat / Director of LEaT Exhibition and Convention

Email Website

Thomas Häger

Global Sales Representative / Sales leat

Email Call Website

Sönke Grahl

Sales Manager

Email Website

Lena Gesell

Brand & Communication Manager leat / Ebner Media Group

Email Website

Marcel Courth

Managing Director Unit leat, Ebner Media Group

Website

Exhibitor booking

Stand booking and exhibitor enquiries

Email Website

Programme planning

Programme and speaker enquiries

Email Website

Press and accreditation

Press contact

Email Website

What's on

Programme

Speakers

Tim Routledge

Lighting Designer

Lighting design; masterclass 'What Actually Matters: Why Good Lighting Has Nothing to Do With The Latest HokeyCokey2000'

Jascha Süß

Digital Artist

Digital art

Philipp Contag-Lada

Mapping Expert

Projection mapping

Calvin Hollywood

Creator and AI Professional

AI workflows in broadcast

Alexandra Liers

Creator and AI Professional

AI workflows in broadcast

Prof. Dr. Anselm Goertz

Professor @ IFAA Aachen

Room acoustics and sound reinforcement

Dorian Meid

Core Developer @ Companion

Show Control with Companion

Timon Löhr von Karchowski

Lawyer @ Karchowski

MVStättVO amendment 2025

Topic tracks

Live Tech HubInstall HubStage Tech HubBroadcast HubCommunicate Hub

Co-located events

NEO Summit 26

Separate ticket

Co-located seminars

night of communicate

Paid

Backstage Pass Masterclasses

Paid

Awards

The AVard

Annual (2026 Edition: Industry Dinner; Full Award Cycle Resumes 2027)

The AVard is the German-language ProAV award honouring the best projects, products and personalities in the professional AV industry. In 2026, the format transforms into the AVard industry dinner, the most important networking evening of the DACH ProAV industry, taking place on 8 October 2026 at Mazza Restaurant, Hamburg, as the closing event of leat con 26. The next full award cycle with submissions, voting and prize ceremony is planned for 2027

Best ProjectsBest ProductsBest Personalities

source

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2026

LEaT con 26 takes place 6–8 October 2026 at Hamburg Messe in Halls A1, A2 and A4 — the first edition in three halls. The organiser states the event will occupy over 20,000 sqm of hall space, making it the largest trade fair in the Experience Technology industry in Northern Europe. Hall A1 was already fully booked at the time of the February 2026 expansion announcement. No official exhibitor or visitor count forecast for 2026 was published on the official site at the time of research

Forecast — not final

Visitors

8,500

Exhibitors

250

Growth over time

New this edition

1
stage tech Hub
A dedicated area debuting at leat con 26 for stage technology professionals, covering stage machinery, drive technology, control systems and scenic integration. Leading companies including ASM Steuerungstechnik, Layher, SCALA stage systems & services and Waagner-Biro Stage System secured space in the new hall
Source
2
communicate Hub
Making its debut at leat con in 2026, the communicate Hub brings the ICT sector — UCC, cloud telephony, collaboration platforms and B2B communication solutions — into dialogue with the AV and broadcast communities. A particular highlight is the night of communicate on 5 October 2026
Source
3
Three-hall expansion
For the first time, leat con 26 occupies three halls (A1, A2 and A4) at Hamburg Messe, creating additional space for exhibitors, new topic clusters and dedicated networking areas. A direct access to the newly added Hall A2 opens to optimise visitor flow
Source

Next edition outlook

2026

high

LEaT con 26 takes place from 6 to 8 October 2026 at Hamburg Messe in Halls A1, A2 and A4 — the first edition to occupy three halls, with over 20,000 sqm of exhibition space. It is the fifth edition of the convention and the first under the unified leat platform brand, which consolidates the previous AVcon, Studioszene and broadcast sub-brands into five hubs: live tech, stage tech, broadcast, install and communicate. The event continues its growth trajectory, with Hall A1 already fully booked and leading stage technology companies confirmed. The supporting programme remains practical and application-oriented, with several stages, training areas and in-depth workshops. A direct access to the newly added Hall A2 will open to optimise visitor flow. The NEO Summit 26 will be co-located on 6–7 October, and the night of communicate will take place on 5 October.

Three-hall expansion to Halls A1, A2 and A4, creating additional space for exhibitors, new topic clusters and dedicated networking areas Debut of the stage tech Hub, a dedicated area for stage technology professionals covering stage machinery, drive technology, control systems and scenic integration Debut of the communicate Hub, bringing the ICT sector — UCC, cloud telephony and B2B communication — into dialogue with AV for the first time Unified five-hub architecture replacing the previous sub-brand structure (AVcon, Studioszene, Broadcast @ leat con) under the leat platform brand Direct access to the newly added Hall A2 to optimise visitor flow, in addition to the central entrance Continued internationalisation, with growing numbers of international exhibitors and visitors attending NEO Summit 26 co-location on 6–7 October 2026 with a curated stage programme on AI in event management

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

leat con 25 solidified its position as the leading networking convention for the live, entertainment and ProAV industries in Germany, drawing over 8,500 participants, 250 exhibitors and more than 380 brands to Hamburg Messe from 14 to 16 October 2025. The event expanded to two halls (A1 and A4) for the first time, offering significantly more space for exhibitors and visitors. The programme covered AI in Action, Immersive Experience, Production Reality and Personal Growth across more than 150 lectures, workshops, trainings and discussions on seven stages. The accompanying AVcon occupied its own hall (A4) with a clear focus on AV over IP, AI in ProAV, Workspace & Conferencing, and Cybersecurity, underlining the growing synergy between leat con and the ProAV community. The premiere of the NEO Summit brought AI in live communication to the programme, while the Special Area Broadcast @ leat con launched hands-on broadcast, film and TV productions. Studioszene delivered expert-led masterclasses, and the Networking Night and Aftershow Party reinforced the community-driven character of the event. Duc Nguyen, Director of LEaT, stated: 'With LEaT con 25, we have once again proven that we are the right platform for the future of event and entertainment technology. The event has not only grown in size but also in substance and relevance for the entire industry.' The event was widely described by exhibitors as the most important trade fair in Germany for the sector.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The leat con 25 audience comprised professionals from across the live events, entertainment technology, ProAV system integration, broadcast and media production sectors. The event attracted over 8,500 participants, a significant increase from 6,500 in 2024 and 2,100 in 2022. The organiser describes the community as application-oriented and production-focused, with 65% of visitors moving between multiple hub areas, reflecting cross-sector engagement. Exhibitors consistently described the audience as friendly, approachable and decision-oriented. Joe Gruber of Nordlite Event Solutions stated that leat con is 'the main fair in Germany right now', while Elisa Posteraro of Adam Hall noted that 'we are meeting our partners, our customers'. The 2026 edition is expected to build on this with international attendance growing, as noted by Duc Nguyen, Director Sales & Partnerships LEaT: 'More and more international exhibitors and visitors are making their way to Hamburg.'

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitor feedback from leat con 25 indicates strong satisfaction and measurable return on participation. Jens Rothenburger of Shure stated: 'For us it's the perfect platform to showcase our products but also to network. We are happy to grow with LEaT con and we are definitely here next year as well.' Joe Gruber of Nordlite Event Solutions described the event as 'the main fair in Germany right now. That's the place to be. We have to be here.' Elisa Posteraro of Adam Hall commented: 'Being here at LEaT con is always super exciting for us. We are meeting our partners, our customers. It's a must for us.' The organiser's decision to expand to three halls for 2026, with Hall A1 already fully booked, reflects sustained exhibitor demand. Stage technology companies including ASM Steuerungstechnik, Layher, SCALA stage systems & services and Waagner-Biro Stage System have already secured space for 2026, indicating growing confidence in the format. Patrick Sonnleithner, CTO of Waagner-Biro Stage System, stated: 'This year marks our first participation at LEaT con, and we are looking forward to being there in person in Hamburg this autumn. We expect valuable conversations and a professional exchange with the community.'

Intelligence

Market context

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

Europe / DACH — Germany, Austria and Switzerland form the core market for LEaT con, with growing international participation from across Europe and beyond. Hamburg serves as the northern German hub for the live events, ProAV, broadcast and experience technology industries

Why it matters

LEaT con 26 matters because it is the only European event that integrates all five converging sectors of experience technology — live events, stage technology, broadcast, AV integration and ICT — into a single platform, at a time when these worlds are merging faster than most industry timelines assume. The European ProAV market alone is projected to grow from USD 34.53 billion in 2026 to over USD 50 billion by 2031, driven by hybrid work, digital signage proliferation and the shift to open, API-driven AV standards. Simultaneously, broadcast is undergoing an IP transition now in its sixth consecutive year as the top industry priority, with AI moving from experimentation to default workflow layer. On the live events side, the industry is pivoting from technology-led planning to experience-led design, demanding professionals who understand both production technology and audience engagement. LEaT con positions itself precisely at this intersection: its five-hub architecture — live tech, stage tech, broadcast, install and communicate — mirrors the convergence that is reshaping how the industry buys, specifies and integrates technology. With the 2026 edition expanding to three halls, with Hall A1 fully booked months in advance and leading companies such as Meyer Sound, ASM Steuerungstechnik, Layher, SCALA and Waagner-Biro already committed, the event provides a single venue for cross-sector evaluation that no other European trade fair currently offers. For buyers, it reduces the need to attend multiple specialist events; for exhibitors, it delivers access to a qualified audience that is actively investing across the converging technology stack

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

European ProAV market growth driven by hybrid work and digital signage

The European professional audio-visual market is projected to grow from USD 34.53 billion in 2026 to USD 50.48 billion by 2031, a CAGR of 7.89%. Growth is driven by structural redesign of workspaces toward technology-rich collaboration rooms, rapid proliferation of digital signage in retail and transportation hubs, and the transition to open standards like AV-over-IP reducing vendor lock-in. Hardware delivered 62% of 2025 revenue. Source:

Source

AI moves from experimentation to default production layer

Generative AI is shifting from polished demonstration to billable product across broadcast and live production. Devoncroft's 2026 Big Broadcast Survey ranked AI/ML/GenAI as the second most commercially important media tech trend, narrowing the margin with IP networking. In live events, asembl's 2026 Trends Report identifies AI personalisation as one of four shifts reshaping experience curation, advocating 'quiet AI' that enhances human experiences behind the scenes.

Source

IP networking remains the top broadcast technology priority for the sixth consecutive year

Devoncroft's 2026 Big Broadcast Survey ranked 'IP Networking & Content Delivery' as the top media tech trend for the sixth consecutive year. Cloud-native production has matured into a default workflow, and live IP contribution is entering its 5G-SA phase with sub-250-millisecond glass-to-glass latencies over public networks. REMI (Remote Integration Model) ranked third, followed by multi-platform content delivery and automated operations. Source:

Source

AV convergence with IT infrastructure and open APIs

AV in Europe is no longer just about screens and speakers — it is converging with IT infrastructure. OpenAV Cloud's State of AV Interoperability Report found that 79% of AV buyers are already transitioning to open, API-driven AV models or plan to within 12 months, and 94% operate in cloud-connected AV environments. Large venues such as NürnbergMesse are deploying converged broadcast and AV-over-IP systems that unify SDI camera workflows with IP-based distribution on a single low-latency infrastructure. Source:

Source

Experience-led event design replacing technology-led planning

Live events are being reshaped by a decisive shift away from traditional AV production towards immersive, personalised and content-led experiences. Organisers are increasingly adopting reusable staging, modular graphics and longer-life assets to reduce waste and improve cost efficiency. Connection and participatory formats are outperforming traditional session types, with mobile apps delivering the highest connection ROI at 33%.

Source

Cybersecurity becomes a pass/fail tender criterion for networked AV

As AV devices increasingly live on corporate networks, cybersecurity is moving from afterthought to procurement requirement. The NIS2 Directive's mandatory controls for large enterprises are driving demand for network segmentation, certificate authentication, and managed detection and response services, adding 15%–25% to project costs. Germany's BSI has moved from registration to active NIS2 auditing.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

LEaT con 26 expands to three halls at Hamburg Messe with over 20,000 sqm

Read

Omdia: AI, cybersecurity and Micro-LED innovation to shape ProAV at ISE Barcelona 2026

Read

Olympia Events and Aztec publish 2026 AV trends review: experience-led design replaces technology-led planning

Read

IP networking ranked top broadcast tech trend for sixth consecutive year

Read

Meyer Sound to present TIGRA and 1800-LFC at LEaT con 2026

Read

DVB World 2026 highlights transition from transport to intelligence in broadcasting

Read

Experience Technology and ProAV Trade Fair Circuit — Europe and Global (2026–2027)

For teams planning a European experience technology calendar, the optimal window runs from ISE (February) through LEaT con (October), covering the full spectrum from systems integration to live production. LEaT con's October timing positions it as the closing event of the European season, after IBC (September) and before the winter hiatus

LEaT con 26 sits within a densely packed circuit of European and global trade fairs covering live events, ProAV integration, broadcast and experience technology. In the 12 months surrounding LEaT con 26 (October 2026), key comparable events include IBC 2026 in Amsterdam (September 2026) for broadcast and media technology; Prolight + Sound / Light + Building 2027 in Frankfurt (March 2027) for event and entertainment technology; ISE 2027 in Barcelona (February 2027) for AV systems integration; NAB Show 2027 in Las Vegas (April 2027) for broadcast and media; and InfoComm 2027 in Orlando (June 2027) for ProAV. A key circuit development: Prolight + Sound 2027 will not run as a standalone show in Frankfurt — it will be integrated as a dedicated themed area within Light + Building 2027, running 8–13 March 2027.

European broadcast and media circuit (September–October 2026)

IBC 2026LEaT Con 26

Teams with broadcast and media technology interests can combine IBC 2026 (Amsterdam, September 11–14) with LEaT con 26 (Hamburg, October 6–8) — both are within 4 weeks and a short flight or train journey apart, covering the full spectrum from broadcast IP workflows to cross-sector experience technology

European ProAV and integration circuit (February–June 2027)

ISE 2027Prolight + Sound / Light + Building 2027MPTS 2027ANGACOM 2027

The first half of 2027 offers a dense sequence of European ProAV, integration and media technology events. ISE 2027 (Barcelona, February 2–5) opens the season, followed by Prolight + Sound within Light + Building 2027 (Frankfurt, March 8–13), MPTS 2027 (London, May 12–13), and ANGACOM 2027 (Cologne, May 18–20)

Global broadcast circuit (April–June 2027)

NAB Show 2027InfoComm 2027

For global teams planning international trade show calendars, NAB Show 2027 (Las Vegas, April 3–7) and InfoComm 2027 (Orlando, June 12–18, tentative) cover North American broadcast and ProAV markets in a single spring window. These complement European events but require transatlantic travel

All event dates are sourced from official organiser websites or credible event listing sources where official dates were not yet published. IBC 2026 dates confirmed by AV Beat (September 11–14, 2026, RAI Amsterdam). ISE 2027 dates confirmed by multiple sources including ISE Europe and AV Beat (February 2–5, 2027, Fira de Barcelona Gran Via). Prolight + Sound 2027 integrated into Light + Building 2027 (March 8–13, 2027) confirmed by Sensations Exhibition. NAB Show 2027 dates confirmed by official NAB Show website (April 3–7, 2027, Las Vegas Convention Center). InfoComm 2027 dates are tentative per AV Beat (June 12–18, 2027, Orange County Convention Center). MPTS 2027 dates (May 12–13, 2027) are projected from the 2026 edition pattern (May 13–14, 2026). ANGACOM 2027 dates (May 18–20, 2027) are projected from the 2026 edition pattern (May 19–21, 2026).

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · EUR

Arrival airports

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

HAM

Hamburg Airport (Helmut Schmidt)

Hamburg Airport is the primary international gateway, served by almost 60 airlines reaching around 130 national and international cities without stopovers. The easiest public transport route is S-Bahn S1 from the airport to Ohlsdorf, then U-Bahn U1 to Stephansplatz, followed by a short walk to the Hamburg Messe grounds. A direct S1 train runs every 15 minutes to Hamburg Jungfernstieg (28 minutes), from where the X35 bus reaches the Messe. A taxi costs approximately EUR 30–35.

10 km (12 km by road)

to venue

about 20–25 minutes by taxi; 30–37 minutes by public transport

by car

BRE

Bremen Airport

Bremen Airport is a smaller alternative with connections to several European cities. From Bremen Hauptbahnhof, direct IC/ICE trains reach Hamburg Dammtor station (approximately 1 hour), which is 300 metres from the Hamburg Messe grounds. Suitable as a secondary option if Hamburg flights are unavailable or expensive. Source:

about 120 km

to venue

about 1 hour 30 minutes by car or direct ICE/IC train

by car

HAJ

Hannover Airport

Hannover Airport offers connections to major European hubs. From Hannover Hauptbahnhof, direct ICE trains reach Hamburg Dammtor in approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Another viable alternative for international visitors. Source:

about 160 km

to venue

about 1 hour 45 minutes by car or direct ICE train

by car

Hotel tiers

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

Budget (3-star)

St. Pauli / Sternschanze, within 1.5 km of Hamburg Messe

USD 80–150 / night

Examples include ibis Hamburg St Pauli Messe (Simon-von-Utrecht-Straße 63, about 1.5 km from the venue) and Holiday Inn Express Hamburg St. Pauli-Messe (Simon-von-Utrecht-Straße 39, about 1.4 km from the venue). Prices are estimates based on typical October rates and may vary significantly by booking date and demand.

Mid-range (4-star)

Dammtor / Messe / Mitte, within 0.5 km of Hamburg Messe

USD 120–250 / night

Examples include IntercityHotel Hamburg Dammtor-Messe (St. Petersburger Straße 1, just 50 metres from the exhibition halls), Mercure Hotel Hamburg Mitte (Schroederstiftstrasse 3, 0.21 km from the venue), and Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg (Sternschanze 6, 0.38 km from the venue). Prices are estimates based on typical October rates.

Premium (4–5-star)

City centre / Alster / HafenCity, within 1–2 km of Hamburg Messe

USD 200–450 / night

Examples include Radisson Blu Hotel Hamburg (0.8 km from the venue), Renaissance Hamburg Hotel (Grosse Bleichen, 0.8 km from the city centre), Grand Elysée Hamburg (Rothenbaumchaussee 10, 5-star, 400 metres from Dammtor station), and Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten (Neuer Jungfernstieg 9, 5-star, 1.4 km from the venue). Prices are estimates based on typical October rates.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

U-Bahn / S-Bahn (HVV)

Estimated costEUR 4.10 single ticket (EUR 3.81 online with 7% discount); EUR 8.20 day ticket (EUR 7.63 online); EUR 2.10 short trip

Best forMessehallen (U2) to South/Central Entrance; Sternschanze (S2, S5, U3) to Central/West Entrance; Dammtor (S2, S5) to East Entrance; Stephansplatz (U1) to East Entrance

Hamburg Messe is served by four HVV stations within walking distance. Messehallen (U2) is 2 minutes from the South Entrance and 5 minutes from the Central Entrance. Sternschanze (S2, S5, U3) is 5 minutes from the Central and West Entrances. Dammtor (S2, S5) is 12 minutes from the East Entrance. Stephansplatz (U1) is 11 minutes from the East Entrance. A single ticket covers all HVV transport including U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses and harbour ferries within Hamburg AB. The 7% online discount applies to tickets purchased via the hvv switch app or online shop.

Deutsche Bahn (long-distance rail)

Estimated costVaries by route; DB event ticket available

Best forDammtor ICE/IC station to Hamburg Messe East Entrance

Dammtor station is served by ICE and IC long-distance trains and is just 300 metres (12 minutes' walk) from the East Entrance of Hamburg Messe. The organiser offers a DB event ticket for cost-effective travel to Hamburg, available while stocks last.

Bus

Estimated costEUR 4.10 single ticket (same HVV fare as U-Bahn/S-Bahn)

Best forMetroBus and express bus lines connect Hamburg Messe with the city centre and surrounding districts. Bus line 105 runs from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Axel-Springer-Platz) to Hamburg Messe in approximately 5–6 minutes, every 30 minutes

The HVV bus network includes MetroBus lines for dense urban routes, express buses for faster connections, and night buses. Buses are integrated into the same HVV fare system as U-Bahn and S-Bahn.

Taxi / Rideshare

Estimated costCity centre to venue: approximately EUR 10–20; Airport to venue: approximately EUR 30–35

Best forFrom Hamburg city centre, St. Pauli, or Hamburg Airport to Hamburg Messe

Taxis and rideshare apps (Uber, FreeNow, Moia) are widely available across Hamburg and connect the airport, city centre and surrounding districts to Hamburg Messe. The taxi journey from Hamburg Airport takes about 20–25 minutes.

Car / Parking

Estimated costParkhaus Mitte and Tiefgarage Ost: EUR 16/day; Heiligengeistfeld: EUR 5/day; Bei den Kirchhöfen and Lagerstraße: EUR 2/hour, max EUR 16/day; Tiergartenstraße 2: EUR 3/hour, max EUR 25/day

Best forA1 and A7 motorways to Hamburg Messe; parking available at Parkhaus Mitte, Tiefgarage Ost, Heiligengeistfeld and several public car parks

Around 3,500 parking spaces are available on the exhibition grounds, but parking is sometimes scarce during fairs, so public transport or Park+Ride is recommended. Parking spaces for disabled visitors are available in the A-area via gate A3 in Lagerstraße. EV charging stations are available at 126 locations across four car parks.

Bike / E-Scooter sharing

Estimated costVaries by provider; StadtRAD from EUR 0.10/minute; Voi e-scooters from EUR 1 to unlock plus per-minute rate

Best forStadtRAD bike stations and Voi e-scooters available across Hamburg, including near Hamburg Messe

Hamburg has a well-developed bike-sharing network (StadtRAD) and e-scooter sharing (Voi). Both can be accessed via the hvv switch app, which integrates public transport, car sharing, e-scooters and bikes into one account.

Harbour ferry (HADAG)

Estimated costEUR 4.10 single ticket (same HVV fare); day ticket EUR 8.20

Best forHADAG ferry lines on the Elbe, integrated into the HVV network

HADAG harbour ferries are regular HVV lines, not tourist boats, and are covered by standard HVV tickets. They offer a scenic and practical way to travel between the Landungsbrücken and other Elbe piers. Source:

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
Schengen short-stay visa (business / trade fair)	Non-EU/EEA nationals who are not visa-exempt and who are travelling to Germany for business meetings, conferences, trade fair participation or negotiations for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Nationals of 62 countries outside the EU/Schengen area are visa-exempt for short stays, and EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa	$98.00	15 calendar days (standard); may be extended to 45 days if further examination is required

Citizens of 62 countries outside the EU and Schengen area are eligible for visa-free short stays in Germany in 2026, including: Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Kosovo, Macao, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vatican City, and Venezuela. These travellers may enter for tourism, business meetings or family visits for up to 90 days within any 180-day period; the visa exemption does not permit employment. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have unrestricted entry. All other nationalities require a Schengen visa before travel. and https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service

Germany accepts the ATA Carnet for commercial samples, professional equipment and exhibitions/fairs. German customs (Zoll) are highly experienced with ATA Carnets and exhibition equipment. Non-EU exhibitors — including US and Canadian companies — can use an ATA Carnet to bring professional equipment into Germany without paying EU import duties. The carnet must be presented to Zoll upon arrival with a complete item list including values in EUR or USD. The EU entry stamp allows free transit within all EU member states, and re-export can be done from any EU country with proper exit documentation. Consumable goods and items for sale are prohibited; all items must be re-exported before carnet expiry. Carnet validity is up to 12 months. From 1 June 2026, the fully digital ATA Carnet (using QR codes) is being introduced across the EU, Switzerland, the UK and Norway; both digital and paper versions must be presented to customs during the transition phase. Handelskammer Hamburg is one of six IHKs piloting the fully digital carnet. Exhibitors should verify specific requirements with their local Chamber of Commerce (IHK) and the event organiser.

Official visa page

Weather

Early October in Hamburg is moderately chilly and frequently wet. Average daytime high temperatures are around 13–14°C, with nighttime lows of 7–9°C. Rain is expected on about 45% of days in October, with monthly precipitation of approximately 50–70 mm. Daylight lasts about 10.2 hours. A light raincoat, umbrella and layers are essential for walking between halls and to public transport stops.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Hamburg Messe is exceptionally well connected: three U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations (Dammtor, Sternschanze, Messehallen) are within walking distance of the grounds, and the long-distance Dammtor ICE/IC station is just 300 metres away with express connections to Berlin, Frankfurt and Cologne. From Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, the venue is reachable in 5 minutes by public transport. The A1 and A7 motorways are quickly accessible. Around 3,500 parking spaces are available on site, with 126 EV charging stations across four locations. There are regular ferry connections to Scandinavia. Within a 2 km radius of the venue, there are 10,000 hotel rooms, 1,000 restaurants and bars, and 100 cultural venues.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Punctuality is non-negotiable

In German business culture, arriving on time is a fundamental sign of respect. Whether for a meeting at an exhibitor stand or a scheduled conference session, show up on time. Cancelling appointments on short notice is considered poor form and will damage your professional reputation. Source:

Formal address and the 'Hamburger Sie'

Address everyone by title and surname until invited to do otherwise. In Hamburg, a local variant called the 'Hamburger Sie' is common in some modern firms: colleagues are addressed by first name while still using the formal 'Sie' pronoun. When in doubt, always default to 'Sie' — it is viewed as a sign of respect, whereas an uninvited 'Du' can be perceived as a lack of professional boundaries.

Direct communication style

German business communication is direct, precise and professionally structured. Conversations are usually objective and results-oriented, and partners rarely engage in extended small talk before getting to the point. In German business culture, nothing remains unspoken — they don't mince words and prefer a direct and open style. This is not rudeness; it is efficiency. Source:

Conservative dress code

Dress conservatively for business meetings and trade fairs. Wear grey and dark colours — nothing flashy. A firm, brief handshake with everyone present, before and after the meeting, is standard. Beyond the handshake, avoid physical contact entirely. Source:

Privacy and personal topics

Respect privacy and knock on closed doors before entering. Private topics are usually avoided in business settings, and discussing personal income is a no-go. Stick to professional subjects and industry matters. Source:

Tipping culture

While not mandatory, it is customary to give a 10% tip on top of the total bill in cafés, bars and restaurants, or to at least round up the bill for small purchases. Make eye contact and politely smile if you need the waiter's attention. Source:

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: HAM

Book flights to Hamburg (HAM) at least 4–6 weeks in advance for the best fares. October is shoulder season and fares are typically moderate. Alternatively, fly to Bremen (BRE) or Hannover (HAJ) and take a direct ICE train to Hamburg Dammtor. The organiser offers a DB event ticket for cost-effective rail travel within Germany while stocks last.

Visa

Visitors to LeATcon 2026 may need a Schengen visa depending on nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and nationals of 62 visa-exempt countries can enter Germany without a visa for up to 90 days for business purposes including trade fair attendance. All other nationalities must obtain a Schengen short-stay visa (business/trade fair category) before travel. Germany does not offer visa on arrival for Schengen visas. Since July 2013, an official invitation letter from the trade fair organiser is generally no longer required; applicants can submit their trade fair ticket or exhibitor registration confirmation instead. Exhibitors may be exempt from the visa fee

Processing: 15 calendar days (standard); can extend to 45 days in complex cases

The visa fee for adults is EUR 90 (approximately USD 98); children aged 6–12 pay EUR 45. Apply at the German embassy or consulate responsible for your country of residence; many embassies use VFS Global or TLScontact as service providers. Required documents typically include: valid passport (at least 3 months validity beyond departure, two blank pages), completed VIDEX application form, biometric photo (35x45mm), travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage, proof of accommodation for the entire stay, flight reservation, employer letter on company letterhead with original signature, bank statements for the last 3–6 months, and trade fair participation proof (stand confirmation for exhibitors or trade fair ticket for visitors). For trade fair visitors, if additional business appointments are planned before or after the fair, submit corresponding invitation letters from business partners. Apply at least 15 days before travel; up to 6 months in advance is recommended during peak periods.

Official

Hotels

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

Areas to stay

Dammtor / Messe / Mitte — closest to the venue, walking distance to Halls A1, A2 and A4 and Dammtor ICE station · St. Pauli / Sternschanze — budget-friendly, lively nightlife and dining, 1–2 km from the venue with good U-Bahn and S-Bahn connections · City centre / Alster / HafenCity — premium options with easy access to the venue via U-Bahn and S-Bahn and proximity to Hamburg's landmarks

Budget (3-star)

USD 80–150 per night

Mid-range (4-star)

USD 120–250 per night

Premium (4–5-star)

USD 200–450 per night

Transport

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

Airport → venue: From Hamburg Airport (HAM), take S-Bahn S1 to Ohlsdorf, then U-Bahn U1 to Stephansplatz or Messehallen (about 30–37 minutes, EUR 4.10 single ticket). Alternatively, taxi takes about 20–25 minutes and costs approximately EUR 30–35. and https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Hamburg-Airport-HAM/Hamburg-Messe-Station

Hotel → venue: Most hotels in the Dammtor/Messe/Mitte area are within walking distance of the venue. From St. Pauli or the city centre, take U-Bahn U2 to Messehallen or S-Bahn S2/S5 to Dammtor or Sternschanze. A single HVV ticket costs EUR 4.10 and a day ticket EUR 8.20. and https://www.hvv.de

Ride-hail: Uber, FreeNow and Moia operate in Hamburg. A ride from the city centre to Hamburg Messe typically costs EUR 10–20; from the airport EUR 30–35.

Public transit: Hamburg Messe is served by three U-Bahn/S-Bahn stations within walking distance: Dammtor (S2, S5, 12 min walk to East Entrance), Sternschanze (S2, S5, U3, 5 min walk to Central/West Entrance) and Messehallen (U2, 2 min walk to South Entrance). The Dammtor ICE/IC long-distance station is 300 metres from the grounds.

Parking: Around 3,500 parking spaces are available on site. Parkhaus Mitte (closest to the convention) and Tiefgarage Ost cost EUR 16/day; Heiligengeistfeld costs EUR 5/day. Public car parks include Bei den Kirchhöfen, Lagerstraße and Tiergartenstr. 2. EV charging is available at 126 stations across four locations. and https://www.hamburg-messe.com/services/travel-accommodation

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October 2026

Temperature: Daytime high 13–14°C; nighttime low 7–9°C

Seasonality: Rain is expected on approximately 45% of days in October. Monthly precipitation totals 50–70 mm. Autumn marks the end of peak season, with cooler temperatures and increased rainfall compared to September

Packing: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket or raincoat, an umbrella and comfortable waterproof walking shoes. October in Hamburg is cool and frequently wet, especially when walking between halls or to public transport stops. A warm mid-layer is advisable for evenings.

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive in Hamburg and check in to your hotel; drop off luggage
09:30Travel to the venue by S-Bahn or U-Bahn; collect your badge at the central entrance
10:00Opening keynote and mainstage sessions; orientation walk through the hubs
12:30Lunch break at one of the on-site catering areas and visit to the install and broadcast hubs
14:00Attend a workshop or live training session in your focus hub; visit exhibitor stands
16:30Guided tour or demo session; network in the community areas
18:00Attend the Networking Night on the first day (6 October 2026), from 18:00
20:30Dinner in the city centre or St. Pauli; optional walk through Planten un Blomen

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Day 1 (Tuesday, 6 October 2026)

Day 1 offers the longest opening hours (10:00–18:00) followed by the Networking Night from 18:00, providing the best combination of full exhibition access and evening networking. The opening day typically features keynote sessions and the full programme across all five hubs.

Register for a visitor ticket or confirm exhibitor stand booking (early-bird until 10 April 2026 for exhibitors) — Floor pass and backstage pass available via the official ticket shop. Exhibitor early-bird rate applies to bookings by 10 April 2026. Guidance, not an official visitor deadline

Book flights and accommodation; confirm visa requirements if travelling from outside the Schengen area — October is a busy trade fair month in Hamburg; hotels near the venue fill up quickly. Guidance based on industry norms

Review the programme across the five hubs and pre-book workshops, masterclasses or guided tours — Backstage Pass masterclasses and side events have limited capacity and should be booked early. Guidance, not an official deadline

Download the event app or print your ticket/confirmation; plan your route to Hamburg Messe — Public transport is recommended; four HVV stations are within walking distance. Guidance based on venue access information

Check the weather forecast and pack layers, a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes — Early October in Hamburg averages 13–14°C with rain on about 45% of days. Guidance based on climate averages

Confirm badge collection details and arrival time; review the hall layout and priority exhibitors — Central entrance (Eingang Mitte) is the main visitor entrance; direct access to Hall A2 opens for 2026. Guidance based on venue information

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day