When and where is PLASA Show 2026?

PLASA Show 2026 takes place at Olympia, London from 6-8 September 2026.

What are the opening times for PLASA Show 2026?

Sunday 6 September 10:00-18:00, Monday 7 September 10:00-19:00, and Tuesday 8 September 10:00-16:00.

How much does visitor registration cost for PLASA Show 2026?

Registration is free for a limited time. From 1-5 September visitor registration costs £15 + VAT, and on-the-door registration is £20 + VAT from 6-8 September.

Who are the sponsors of PLASA Show 2026?

Robe returns as headline sponsor, supported by official sponsors Absen, A.C. Entertainment Technologies and Leisuretec.

Which show features return for PLASA Show 2026?

Returning features include Classic Gear Live, the Innovation Gallery, the Careers and Networking Hub, and the PLASA Awards for Innovation, plus demo rooms from Absen, RCF UK, KV2 Audio and Barco.

How do I contact the PLASA Show team about visiting or exhibiting?

Email info@plasashow.com or call +44 (0) 1323 524 122 via the official contact page at https://www.plasashow.com/contact-us.

PLASA - Entertainment Industry Technology 2026

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at PLASA - Entertainment Industry Technology 2026 include 1-sound, 3D Stage Tracker, A.C. Entertainment Technologies, A.D.J Supply Europe and Absen.

1-sound
3D Stage Tracker
A.C. Entertainment Technologies
A.D.J Supply Europe
Absen

Event overview

Overview

PLASA Show is the UK's market-leading trade event for live entertainment technology, taking place from 6 to 8 September 2026 at Olympia, London.

The event celebrates entertainment technology and the people behind it, featuring global product launches, inspiring talks, technical deep-dives, collaborative panels, hands-on practical training, and live audio demonstrations.

TL;DR

1Returning to London Olympia from 6-8 September 2026.
2UK's leading trade event for live entertainment technology.
3Features over 270 exhibiting brands and 7,000+ professionals.
4Includes product launches, seminars, training, and networking.
5Registration is open for 2026.

Why visit

Visiting PLASA Show offers a comprehensive insight into the latest live entertainment technology, including product launches, technical seminars, and practical training. The event connects professionals with industry experts, providing opportunities for learning and networking that can inform purchasing decisions and keep attendees ahead of industry trends.

Why exhibit

PLASA Show is the UK's leading trade event for live entertainment technology, providing exhibitors with direct access to a professionally relevant audience of lighting designers, audio engineers, production managers, and technical directors. Exhibiting here positions brands in front of influential buyers and decision-makers within the entertainment technology sector, ideal for launching new products and building industry relationships.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Lighting designers

Audio engineers

Production managers

Technical directors

Venue operators

Event producers

Rental company owners

Entertainment technology buyers

Touring professionals

Students and educators in entertainment technology

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Lighting manufacturers

Audio equipment manufacturers

AV technology providers

Staging and rigging companies

LED and display manufacturers

Control systems providers

Professional audio distributors

Event production services

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Lighting

Audio

Staging

Rigging

LED

Control systems

Event production

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

{'label': 'The Grand Hall', 'notes': 'Main Exhibition Hall for PLASA Show 2026'}

Olympia London

Hammersmith Road, W14 8UX London, UK

Entrances & gates

Main Entrance

The Grand Hall

Located on Hammersmith Road. Step-free access.

Facilities

Parking

Multi-storey car park on-site with disabled bays. Pre-booking is strongly advised and cheaper than pay-on-the-day. No coach parking; nearest facility is Wembley.

Accessibility

Venue is wheelchair accessible with step-free access throughout. Wheelchairs can be hired free of charge. Induction loop available on request. Assistance dogs welcome.

Cloakroom

Cloakroom available; prices range from £1–£2 per item. Suitcases cannot be stored.

Luggage storage

Luggage storage available at the venue.

On-site shuttle

No onsite shuttle service mentioned. The venue is adjacent to Kensington (Olympia) station and well-served by public transport.

Food options

PLASA Show Bar, Various Outlets

On-site dining

Parking: On-site parking available, pre-booking recommended for cheaper rates. Disabled bays available. Postcode for sat nav: W14 8UX.

Gate: Main entrance from Hammersmith Road. The venue has step-free access throughout.

Attend

Entry & tickets

Free registration

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Sunday 6 September 2026:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Monday 7 September 2026:10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Tuesday 8 September 2026:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Early Bird
Until 3 September 2026
Standard
4–5 September 2026, plus VAT
£15.00
On-the-door
6–8 September 2026, plus VAT
£20.00

Ticket info

Badge collection

Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to redeem your entry badge via the show app. If you do not have a smartphone, your entry badge will be emailed to you one week before the show.

Ticket notes

Ticket prices vary by registration date: free until 3 September 2026, £15 + VAT from 4–5 September, and £20 + VAT from 6–8 September.

Registration deadline

2026-09-03

Who runs the show

Organisers

PLASA

Event organiser

Website

PLASA Show events team

General enquiries - visiting and exhibiting

Email Call Website

Sophie Atkinson

Head of Events, PLASA

Email Website

What's on

Programme

Topic tracks

LightingAudioAV & VideoRigging & Staging

Awards

PLASA Awards

Annual

Awards celebrating excellence in entertainment technology, presented during PLASA Show.

InnovationDesignTechnical Achievement

source

Previous edition

Visitors

7,000

Exhibitors

537

Floor area (sqm)

20,000

Growth over time

Edition recap

PLASA Show 2025 transformed Olympia London's Grand Hall into a hub of live entertainment technology from 7-9 September, welcoming over 30 new exhibitors and achieving a 2.6% increase in overall attendance despite severe train strikes. Visitor numbers rose by 14% on opening day and 5% on day two, with 11.3% of total attendees arriving from overseas – a 24% increase on 2024's international representation. Student participation reached record levels, with registrations up 39.5% and attendance up 31.5% year-on-year.

The show floor hosted 537 companies across over 20,000 sqm. Headline sponsor Robe delivered a show-stopping centrepiece with its production Excalibur and the Lights of the Round Table, and launched six new products. Other major launches included Chauvet Professional's Maverick Force X Profile, Litec's S Series trussing, and Shure's ANX4 wireless receiver.

A significant new addition was the Careers & Networking Hub, in collaboration with PLASA, The Power of Events, Production Futures and Access Industry, offering CV help, mentoring, and recruitment opportunities. The Entertainment Technology Industry Alliance (ETIA) was also launched at the show, uniting seven European associations to pool expertise and advocate on sustainability and regulation.

In the PLASA Awards for Innovation, Sennheiser's Spectera won the Gold Award, with Disguise's Ask AId3n and Powersoft's Nota 124 among other winners. PLASA Show will return to Olympia London from 6-8 September 2026.

New this edition

1
Careers & Networking Hub
Introduced at PLASA Show 2025, in collaboration with PLASA, The Power of Events, Production Futures and Access Industry. Offered CV and portfolio help, mentoring sessions with industry leaders, free professional headshots and the chance to meet employers actively recruiting.
Source
2
Entertainment Technology Industry Alliance (ETIA) launch
Seven European media and event technology associations – including PLASA, PSA, AFIAL, APESA, AVITA, the Event Confederation, and VPLT – came together on 8 September 2025 at PLASA Show to form this alliance, representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers, system integrators, production companies and technical service providers from six countries.
Source

Photos

PLASA Show 2025 at Olympia London - show floor view.

PLASA Show 2025 - exhibitor interaction.

PLASA Show 2025 - product demonstration.

Testimonials

The turnout was incredible. The vibe was electric, and we welcomed visitors from over 25 countries. With the launch of our latest product, interest was huge. The response from both new and existing contacts exceeded our expectations. Our goals going into the show were ambitious, but we're proud to say they were not only met – they were surpassed.
Frameled · First-time exhibitor · Frameled · 2025

PLASA Show remains the cornerstone trade show for the UK live events industry, and this year once again proved its value for us. From a modest booth to a full custom build, the company has established PLASA Show as its key UK platform to connect with rental, live event, and integration professionals.
Theatrixx Technologies · Exhibitor · Theatrixx Technologies · 2025

The steady flow of visitors to our stand provided a number of opportunities to demonstrate our solutions and engage in meaningful conversations. The high level of interest in our offerings led to many promising leads, reinforcing our belief in the value of participating in the show.
Charlie Henden · Leisuretec · Leisuretec · 2024

PLASA Show was excellent this year. Our team all commented that this is one of the best exhibitions they have ever been to. Incredibly busy, high-quality leads, a great mix of customers, and a lot of fun!
Adam Ironside · Marketing Manager · Canford Audio · 2023

Next edition outlook

2026-09-06 – 2026-09-08

high

PLASA Show will return to Olympia London from 6-8 September 2026, continuing its mission to connect, inspire and celebrate the people and technology that make live entertainment possible. The 2026 edition builds on the success of 2025's expanded show floor and record student participation.

Continued focus on sustainability, skills development and next-generation talent Return of popular features including Classic Gear Live, Innovation Gallery, Careers and Networking Hub, and PLASA Awards for Innovation Expanded seminar programme covering industry trends and technical innovation

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

PLASA Show 2025 transformed Olympia London's Grand Hall into a hub of live entertainment technology from 7-9 September. Despite severe train strikes challenging travel, the show achieved a 2.6% increase in overall attendance. International representation grew by 24%, with strong overseas presence from Sweden, Italy, Ireland, the USA, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Denmark and Germany. Student participation reached record levels with registrations up 39.5% and attendance up 31.5% year on year. More than 30 new exhibitors joined established brands to showcase world-first product launches across lighting, audio, AV, staging and rigging technology.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

PLASA Show 2025 attracted a highly qualified audience with 11.3% international attendees from countries including Sweden, Italy, Ireland, USA, Norway, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Denmark and Germany. Key job roles included directors, CEOs, technicians, programmers, engineers, lighting designers, technical directors, and project managers. Student participation reached record levels with registrations up 39.5% and attendance up 31.5% year on year. The 2024 edition reported 79% of attendees with influential purchasing power.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

PLASA Show 2025 delivered strong exhibitor value with over 30 new exhibitors joining established brands to showcase world-first product launches. The show floor featured leading brands including headline sponsor Robe alongside d&b audiotechnik, ChamSys, Yamaha, Shure, Sennheiser, and RCF. The Innovation Gallery spotlighted the industry's freshest products, culminating in the PLASA Awards for Innovation. Exhibitors benefited from access to a highly qualified audience with 79% reporting influential purchasing power (2024 data) and strong international representation.

Intelligence

Exhibitors

183

Exhibitors

Top exhibitor countries

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

United Kingdom
143
United States
7
China
5
Netherlands
5
Italy
4
Germany
3
Switzerland
3
Spain
2
Sweden
2
France
2

~78% of listed exhibitors are from United Kingdom.

Category breakdown

183Exhibitors

1~37

estimate

2~22

estimate

3~21

estimate

National pavilions

United Kingdom

~143 stands

estimate

United States

~7 stands

estimate

China

~5 stands

estimate

Netherlands

~5 stands

estimate

Italy

~4 stands

estimate

Germany

~3 stands

estimate

Switzerland

~3 stands

estimate

Spain

~2 stands

estimate

Sweden

~2 stands

estimate

France

~2 stands

estimate

Canada

~2 stands

estimate

Lithuania

~1 stands

estimate

Australia

~1 stands

estimate

Hungary

~1 stands

estimate

Czechia

~1 stands

estimate

Buyer targets

High priority

Buyers sourcing

Other Live Entertainment Technology Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Entertainment Technology Distribution Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Professional Audio & Sound Reinforcement Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Broadcast, Streaming & Content Production Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Rigging, Truss & Staging Structure Suppliers

Medium priority

Buyers sourcing

Live Entertainment Technology Suppliers (profile Pending)

Buyers sourcing

Lighting Control, Consoles & DMX Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Stage Lighting & Luminaire Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

LED Display, Projection & Video Technology Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Training, Association & Professional Services Suppliers

Intelligence

Market context

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

Europe

Why it matters

PLASA Show 2026 is strategically positioned at the intersection of multiple high-growth technology trends reshaping the live entertainment industry. The global stage performance audio and lighting equipment market is projected to grow from USD 2.52 billion in 2026 to USD 4.13 billion by 2034 (9.5% CAGR), driven by increasing demand for high-production-value live events and technological advancements in digital signal processing. Key innovations like networked audio protocols (Dante/AES67), intelligent lighting control systems (DMX/Art-Net), and AI-driven AV systems are transforming traditional setups into integrated solutions. The show provides a critical platform for lighting, audio, AV, staging, and rigging professionals to explore world-first product launches, network with over 270 exhibiting brands, and gain insights from expert-led seminars covering sustainability, AI, skills development, and industry heritage. With 79% of attendees reporting influential purchasing power (2024 data) and strong international representation, PLASA Show delivers exceptional ROI for exhibitors and sponsors seeking to reach qualified buyers in the rapidly evolving entertainment technology market.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI-Driven AV Systems and Automation

AI is embedded across AV workflows, enabling automation, reliability, and enhanced user experience. Expect AI to be integrated in live switchers, AV control systems, and virtual-production pipelines for smarter auto-framing, real-time low-latency graphics, and on-the-fly translations/subtitles.

Source

Immersive LED and Visual Displays

Fine-pitch LEDs and first commercial MicroLED deployments are pushing video walls into large-scale scenic design. Costs continue to fall, making MicroLED realistic for premium events in 2026, enabling ultra-high-res canvases, transparent and flexible displays.

Source

Immersive Audio Goes Mainstream

Spatial audio (object-based/3D audio) is advancing from studio/broadcast into live event use, providing better audience immersion and new creative possibilities. More events are using spatial audio rigs and venue-integrated array solutions.

Source

Sustainability as Production Requirement

Event teams are accelerating sourcing of low-emission power solutions, greener logistics, and circular-set design. Pilots for battery-stored clean power and efficient LED adoption are gaining traction. Sustainable power, lower-carbon scenic elements, and waste reduction will be line items in AV bids.

Source

Cybersecurity as Procurement Item

The industry recognizes AV systems as networked endpoints. Conferences/expos are adding sessions on AV cyber risk and compliance. AV vendors will need to demonstrate network security, firmware update policies, and compliance with standards like NIS2/ISO 27001.

Source

Hybrid Events and Virtual Production

XR and virtual production techniques are bringing cinematic visuals to keynotes and brand experiences. Hybrid audience expectations are rising for both quality and interactivity. Virtual production elements like LED volumes and real-time engines will be used selectively for hero moments.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

PLASA Show 2026 opens registration as the industry prepares to return to Olympia

Read

CRE8 2026: Flagship DJ event unveils expert industry panels covering labels, promoters & social media

Read

From the creators of PLASA Show, introducing CRE8: A new event for DJs & music producers

Read

International Live Entertainment Technology Event Circuit

September 2025 - September 2026

PLASA Show 2026 is part of a global circuit of premier trade events for live entertainment technology professionals. The circuit includes major events across Europe, North America, and Asia, each offering unique opportunities to explore innovations in lighting, audio, AV, staging, and rigging. Exhibitors and visitors should plan their circuit strategically to maximize ROI and stay ahead of industry trends.

3–6 Feb 2026

ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) 2026

Barcelona, Spain

ISE is Europe's largest AV and systems integration show, covering professional audio, video, lighting, and control systems. Essential for AV integrators and consultants.

website

18–23 Apr 2026

NAB Show 2026

Las Vegas, USA

NAB Show focuses on broadcast, media, and entertainment technology, including video production, post-production, and distribution. Essential for broadcast professionals.

website

21–24 Apr 2026

Prolight + Sound 2026

Frankfurt, Germany

Prolight + Sound is the world's largest trade fair for event technology, covering lighting, audio, staging, and media technology. Attracts over 60,000 visitors from 130+ countries.

website

13–19 Jun 2026

InfoComm 2026

Orlando, USA

InfoComm is North America's largest AV and integrated experience event, covering professional audio, video, lighting, and control systems. Focuses on enterprise, education, and government sectors.

website

6–8 Sep 2026

PLASA Show 2026

London, UK

PLASA Show is the UK's leading event for live entertainment technology, covering lighting, audio, AV, staging, and rigging. Essential for UK and European professionals.

website

21–24 Jan 2027

NAMM Show 2027

Anaheim, USA

NAMM Show is the world's largest trade event for music products, pro audio, and event technology. Attracts over 100,000 professionals from 120+ countries.

website

Q1 2026: European AV and Systems Integration

ISE 2026

Focus on AV integration, enterprise solutions, and systems design. Essential for AV consultants and integrators.

Q2 2026: Event Technology and Media Production

Prolight + Sound 2026NAB Show 2026

Coverage of event technology, broadcast, and media production. Prolight + Sound focuses on live events, while NAB Show covers broadcast and media technology.

Q3 2026: North American AV and Live Entertainment

InfoComm 2026PLASA Show 2026

InfoComm covers enterprise AV and integrated experiences, while PLASA Show focuses on UK and European live entertainment technology.

Q1 2027: Music Products and Pro Audio

NAMM Show 2027

Focus on music products, pro audio, and event technology. Essential for music industry professionals and pro audio manufacturers.

Event dates and locations verified from official event websites and industry publications as of June 2026.

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

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

LHR

London Heathrow Airport

Nearest major international airport. Direct Piccadilly Line tube to Barons Court (then short walk) or train to Kensington (Olympia). Taxi ~£50-80.

17.1 km (10.6 miles)

to venue

20–25 minutes

by car

LGW

London Gatwick Airport

Direct Thameslink or Southern trains to Kensington (Olympia) in ~40-50 min. Taxi ~£80-120.

37.9 km (23.5 miles)

to venue

50–60 minutes

by car

LCY

London City Airport

Closest to central London. DLR + tube to Barons Court/West Kensington; total ~55-65 min. Taxi ~£50-70.

18 km (11.2 miles)

to venue

40–50 minutes

by car

LTN

London Luton Airport

Thameslink train to West Hampstead, then Overground to Kensington (Olympia); total ~55 min. Taxi ~£80-100.

44.1 km (27.4 miles)

to venue

55–70 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

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

Budget / Economy

Kensington, Earl's Court

USD 90–150 / night

Compact but clean rooms, often with shared facilities or basic amenities. Ideal for cost-conscious attendees. Examples: Point A Kensington Olympia (from ~$90), Premier Inn London Kensington (from ~$107).

Mid-Range / 3-Star

Kensington, Hammersmith, Earl's Court

USD 150–250 / night

Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms, on-site dining, and often fitness centres. Good value for business travellers. Examples: Best Western Kensington Olympia (3-star), Kensington Olympia Hotel (3-star).

Premium / 4-Star

Kensington High Street, Olympia

USD 250–400 / night

Full-service hotels with restaurants, bars, gyms, and meeting spaces. Often located within walking distance of the venue. Examples: Hilton London Olympia (4-star, from ~$94), Novotel London West.

Luxury / 5-Star

Kensington, Central London

USD 400–700 / night

High-end properties with premium amenities, spa facilities, and exceptional service. May require a short taxi or tube ride. Examples: Hyatt Regency London Olympia (new, directly linked to venue), The Bailey's Hotel London Kensington.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

London Underground (Tube)

Estimated cost£2.80–£5.60 (contactless/Oyster)

Best forDistrict Line to West Kensington or Barons Court; Piccadilly Line to Barons Court; Circle Line to High Street Kensington

Barons Court is a 9-minute walk; West Kensington is an 8-minute walk.

London Overground

Estimated cost£1.90–£4.50

Best forMildmay Line to Kensington (Olympia) station

Station is directly outside the venue.

Bus

Estimated cost£1.75 (contactless/Oyster)

Best forRoutes 9, 23, 27, 28, 49, 391 stop near the venue

Frequent services from central London and surrounding areas.

Taxi / Ride-Hail

Estimated cost£10–£30 (short trips)

Best forUber, Bolt, Addison Lee, black cabs

Black cabs can be hailed on the street; ride-hail apps are widely used.

National Rail

Estimated cost£2.50–£6.00

Best forSouthern Rail services to Kensington (Olympia)

Direct connections from Clapham Junction, Watford Junction, and other suburbs.

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
Standard Visitor visa	Visa nationals (including Indian citizens) attending PLASA Show 2026 as exhibitors or business visitors	$168.00	3 weeks
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Non-visa nationals (from April 2025, all non-visa nationals require ETA)	$25.00	Usually within 3 working days
Standard Visitor visa (business)	Business visitors attending conferences, meetings, negotiations	$168.00	3 weeks

Non-visa nationals (including EU, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and others) can visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa, but from April 2025 must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing £20. Visa nationals (including India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and most African and Middle Eastern countries) must apply for a Standard Visitor visa before travel. No visa-on-arrival facility is available.

ATA Carnet is accepted in the UK for temporary importation of professional equipment and exhibition goods. Exhibitors bringing demonstration equipment, samples, or professional tools for PLASA Show 2026 should use ATA Carnet to avoid customs duties and VAT. Apply through your national chamber of commerce or authorized issuing authority. Check with the event organizer and UK Border Force for specific requirements.

Official visa page

Weather

September in London is mild and often pleasant, with average highs of 18–20°C (64–68°F) and lows of 10–12°C (50–54°F). Rainfall averages 40–55 mm (1.6–2.2 inches) across 9–12 rainy days, making it one of the drier months. Expect some cloud cover and occasional light showers; layers and a waterproof jacket are recommended.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Olympia London is exceptionally well-connected. Kensington (Olympia) station is directly outside the venue, served by London Overground (Mildmay line) and Southern Rail. West Kensington (District line) and Barons Court (District and Piccadilly lines) are a short walk away. Multiple bus routes (9, 23, 27, 28, 49, 391) stop nearby. Heathrow is 20 min by car/train; Gatwick ~1 hour. The venue is in Kensington, near major hotels and landmarks like Kensington High Street and Hyde Park.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Politeness and Reserve

Londoners value politeness and personal space. 'Sorry', 'please', and 'cheers' are used frequently. Avoid loud conversations on public transport; stand on the right on escalators.

Punctuality

Being on time for business meetings is essential. If you will be more than five minutes late, call or message to apologise.

Business Attire

Traditional business attire (suit and tie for men, smart dress or suit for women) is still the norm in formal settings. Smart-casual is acceptable for more relaxed meetings.

Queuing

Queuing is taken seriously. Always join the end of a queue and wait your turn—jumping the queue is considered very rude.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, 10-15% is customary. Taxis: round up to the nearest pound or add 10%.

Language and Slang

English is the official language. Locals use 'quid' for pounds, 'tube' for the Underground, and 'loo' for toilet. Avoid overly familiar language with new business contacts.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: London Heathrow (LHR)

Book early for September travel. Heathrow is the most convenient; Gatwick, London City, Luton, and Stansted are also options. Consider direct train/tube connections to Kensington (Olympia).

Visa

Indian nationals require a Standard Visitor visa (£135, ~$168 USD) to attend PLASA Show 2026. Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor at least 3 weeks before travel. Non-visa nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA, £20, ~$25 USD) from April 2025.

Processing: 3 weeks

For Indian exhibitors and visitors: Apply for Standard Visitor visa online, provide evidence of event registration, business letter, financial means, and return travel plans. Processing time is typically 3 weeks. No visa-on-arrival available. For non-visa nationals: Apply for ETA online (£20, usually processed within 3 working days).

Official

Hotels

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

Check-in (recommended)

15:00

Check-out (recommended)

11:00

Areas to stay

Kensington · Earl's Court · Hammersmith · South Kensington · Shepherd's Bush · Notting Hill

Budget

$90–$150

Mid-Range

$150–$250

Premium

$250–$400

Luxury

$400+

Transport

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

Airport → venue: Heathrow: Piccadilly Line to Barons Court (9-min walk) or direct train; Gatwick: Thameslink/Southern to Kensington (Olympia); City: DLR + tube; Luton/Stansted: train + tube/overground.

Hotel → venue: Most hotels in Kensington/Earl's Court are within 10–20 minutes' walk or a short bus/tube ride.

Ride-hail: Uber, Bolt, and black cabs are readily available. A short trip within Kensington costs ~£10–£20.

Public transit: Oyster or contactless payment is recommended. The venue is well-served by tube (District, Piccadilly, Circle), Overground (Mildmay line), and multiple bus routes.

Parking: On-site parking is extremely limited and reserved for Blue Badge holders. Street parking is restricted and falls within the ULEZ. Pre-book parking via Olympia's website is strongly advised.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: September

Temperature: 10–20°C (50–68°F)

Seasonality: Average 40–55 mm rainfall; 9–12 rainy days. One of the drier months.

Packing: Layers: light sweater or jacket, waterproof outer layer, comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella is advisable.

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Monday, 7 September 2026

Monday has the longest published show hours of the three days (10:00-19:00, versus 10:00-18:00 Sunday and 10:00-16:00 Tuesday) and is the evening the PLASA Awards for Innovation presentation and the included after-party take place, combining maximum floor time with the show's flagship networking moment.

T-30

Register for a PLASA Show 2026 visitor badge online — Registration is free for a limited time; advance online registration (1-5 Sep) is GBP15+VAT, on-the-door (6-8 Sep) is GBP20+VAT.

T-21

Download the official PLASA Show app and set up login — Log in with the same email used to register; use 'send login link' or 'forgot password' on first login.

T-14

Shortlist exhibitors, seminars and pavilions to prioritise — Full 2026 seminar programme is published closer to the show on the official What's On page.

T-10

Book hotel and travel to Olympia, London (Hammersmith Road, W14 8UX) — Olympia sits on its own Overground station (Kensington Olympia) with on-site parking, pre-booking recommended.

T-7

Plan seminar attendance around Gallery-level theatres — Seminars are free with an entry ticket but first come, first served - arrive early for popular sessions.

T-3

Prepare meeting requests and a follow-up plan for target exhibitors — Recommended practice, not an official organiser requirement.

T-1

Confirm badge/QR in the app and review the day-by-day agenda — Free unlimited WiFi is available on-site.

T-0

Arrive early, collect badge, and head to priority seminars/stands first — Show hours: Sun 10:00-18:00, Mon 10:00-19:00, Tue 10:00-16:00.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day