Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The Star of the North Meeting is the Minnesota Dental Association’s annual Scientific Session, welcoming dentists from Minnesota and beyond.
This vibrant regional meeting emphasizes the dental team and offers a variety of continuing education sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing the latest innovations in dentistry.
Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition takes place in Saint Paul, USA.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: Star of the North Meeting runs April 22-24, 2027 at Saint Paul RiverCentre, USA.
- 2Scale and Focus: This premier dental conference features over 94 continuing education sessions and 247 exhibitors.
- 3Organiser: Hosted by the Minnesota Dental Association, dedicated to advancing dental education.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants from across the Midwest.
- 5Entry: Registration opens January 5, 2027, with free admission for MDA members.
Why visit
Attendees will gain access to valuable continuing education sessions, networking opportunities with industry professionals, and insights into the latest dental technologies. The event is designed to enhance professional development and foster connections within the dental community. With over 247 exhibiting companies, visitors can explore a wide range of products and services tailored to dental practices, ensuring they stay updated on industry advancements.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at the Star of the North Meeting provides companies with direct access to a targeted audience of dental professionals. Exhibitors can showcase their products, engage with potential clients, and build brand awareness in the dental community. The event offers numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration, making it an essential platform for companies looking to expand their reach and influence in the dental sector.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Dentists from Minnesota and surrounding states
Dental hygienists seeking continuing education
Dental assistants looking to enhance their skills
Dental students interested in networking and learning
Practice managers seeking new products and services
Dental educators sharing knowledge and resources
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Dental equipment manufacturers: imaging systems, chairs, delivery units, handpieces, and sterilization equipment for clinical practices.
Dental consumables suppliers: restorative materials, impression products, disposables, and hygiene supplies sold to practices and labs.
Practice-management software providers: scheduling, billing, patient communication, and analytics platforms for dental offices.
Dental laboratory services and materials: crown and bridge, removables, milling, and shade-matching partners for Minnesota practices.
Infection-control and sterilization suppliers: autoclaves, instrument tracking, PPE, and surface-disinfectant systems.
Continuing education and training organizations: CE course providers, hands-on workshop partners, and dental assistant or hygiene programs.
Financial and insurance services: practice financing, malpractice coverage, patient payment plans, and dental benefits administrators.
Marketing and patient-acquisition agencies: website, SEO, reputation, and recall services for dental practices.
Dental product distributors and dealers: regional and national distributors serving Minnesota practices with equipment and consumable fulfillment.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Dental imaging and diagnostic equipment
Preventive and restorative dental products
Dental hygiene products and tools
Practice management software solutions
Dental education resources and materials
Innovative dental technologies and equipment
Location & Facilities
Venue
Saint Paul RiverCentre
Saint Paul, USA
Facilities
Parking
Saint Paul RiverCentre in Saint Paul typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Saint Paul RiverCentre in Saint Paul typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Saint Paul RiverCentre for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Who runs the show
Organisers
Minnesota Dental Association
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Saint Paul, USA
Why it matters
Attending Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition on 2027-04-22 to 2027-04-24 in Saint Paul lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
Primary commercial airport for the Twin Cities, with domestic and international service. Confirm live transit, rideshare, and rental-car options
TBA
to venue
Approx. 15-25 minutes by car or rideshare, depending on traffic
by car
St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field)
General-aviation reliever airport closer to downtown Saint Paul; not served by major commercial airlines
TBA
to venue
Approx. 10-15 minutes by car
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
4-star downtown
Downtown Saint PaulDoubleTree listing captured at about INR 13,207 per stay (roughly 22% below its usual rate) on Google Hotels for a Saint Paul two-night search; InterContinental is a downtown riverfront 4-star option. Confirm live USD rates.
3-star downtown
Downtown Saint PaulSpringHill Suites downtown was shown roughly 23% below its usual rate, with free breakfast and paid parking.
3-star suburban / airport
Woodbury and Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport corridorSuburban and airport-area options with free parking (Woodbury) or airport shuttle (Courtyard MSP); the airport Courtyard was flagged about 31% below its usual rate.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Bus
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forMetro Transit Route 54 from MSP Airport to downtown Saint Paul; walk or rideshare to Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Direct bus option from the airport; exact stop and schedule vary by terminal.
Light rail
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forMetro Green Line from downtown Minneapolis to Saint Paul Union Depot; downtown Saint Paul stops are a short walk or rideshare to RiverCentre.
Useful if arriving via Minneapolis or connecting from the Blue Line at MSP Airport.
Taxi / rideshare
Estimated costUSD 35–75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forDirect from MSP Airport to Saint Paul RiverCentre, about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Rideshare pickup locations vary by terminal; follow airport signs.
Parking
Estimated costUSD 18-35 daily venue parking
Best forOn-site and nearby downtown Saint Paul ramps; check event-specific parking instructions at Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Rates and availability vary by event; arrive early on show days.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from MSP to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forMinneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Saint Paul RiverCentre
Approx. 15-25 minutes by car or rideshare, depending on traffic; Primary commercial airport for the Twin Cities, with domestic and international service. Confirm live transit, rideshare, and rental-car options.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from STP to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forSt. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field) (STP) to Saint Paul RiverCentre
Approx. 10-15 minutes by car; General-aviation reliever airport closer to downtown Saint Paul; not served by major commercial airlines.
Weather
April in Saint Paul is early spring: average highs around 55-60°F (13-16°C) and lows around 35-40°F (2-4°C). Rain or wet snow is possible, and mornings can be frosty. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes for RiverCentre and downtown blocks. Check a local forecast within 48 hours of travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or a local SIM for business visitors to the United States.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Dental meeting etiquette
Sessions start on time; arrive early for hands-on workshops and bring your license number if CE tracking is required. Exhibit-hall conversations are often practical and product-focused.
Business casual
Most attendees wear business casual, while clinical scrubs are common for hygienists and assistants. Comfortable shoes help for the exhibit hall and downtown walking.
Tipping and dining
Standard U.S. tipping of 15-20% applies at restaurants. Downtown Saint Paul has walkable lunch options near RiverCentre, but April weather can change plans quickly.
Minnesota dental community
The Star of the North Meeting is a regional gathering for Minnesota Dental Association members; conversation often centers on licensure, practice operations, and Upper Midwest care models.
Weather-ready
April can bring rain or snow; locals check forecasts and layer clothing. Indoor skyways connect some downtown Saint Paul buildings, but not all routes to RiverCentre.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: MSP
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Saint Paul; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Approx. 15-25 minutes by car or rideshare, depending on traffic; St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field) (STP): Approx. 10-15 minutes by car. Allow road or rail time to Saint Paul RiverCentre; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Saint Paul RiverCentre: Downtown Saint Paul: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St Paul Downtown, InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, an IHG Hotel; Downtown Saint Paul: SpringHill Suites by Marriott St. Paul Downtown; Woodbury and Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport corridor: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Woodbury, MN, Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Saint Paul; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Metro Transit Route 54 provides a direct bus link between MSP Airport and downtown Saint Paul; the Green Line connects downtown Minneapolis to Saint Paul Union Depot. From downtown Saint Paul stops, Saint Paul RiverCentre is a short walk or rideshare. Fares are approximately $2.00-$2.50 one way; confirm routes and fares with Metro Transit before travel.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Saint Paul RiverCentre; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April 2027
Temperature: April: highs 13-16°C (55-60°F), lows 2-4°C (35-40°F).
Seasonality: Early spring in Saint Paul; rain or wet snow is possible, with average April precipitation around 2-3 inches. Check the forecast within 48 hours of travel.
Packing: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, an umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes. Business casual is typical for the meeting, with clinical scrubs common for hygienists and assistants. Bring a refillable water bottle and a bag for exhibit-hall materials.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm registration status and save your badge confirmation for the Star of the North Meeting.
T-2
Book a downtown Saint Paul hotel or airport-corridor room; compare rates and cancellation terms.
T-3
Review the CE schedule and pre-select sessions that match your license renewal needs.
T-4
Check whether hands-on workshops require separate tickets or advance sign-up.
T-5
Plan an exhibit-hall route around vendors for imaging, consumables, and practice software.
T-6
Arrange team coverage if multiple staff are attending from your practice.
T-7
Download the Metro Transit app or plan Route 54 and Green Line options from MSP Airport.
T-8
Check the April Saint Paul forecast and pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes.
T-9
Confirm parking at Saint Paul RiverCentre or your hotel if driving.
T-10
Bring business cards and a notebook for vendor follow-ups and CE tracking.
T-11
Review the Minnesota Dental Association website for last-minute schedule or room changes.
T-12
Set a budget for exhibit-hall purchases and ask about show specials.
T-13
Save the venue address: 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102.
T-14
Confirm CE reporting requirements with your state board before travel.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Saint Paul RiverCentre
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition registration concourse
Saint Paul RiverCentre
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Saint Paul RiverCentre
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is the Star of the North Meeting?
The Star of the North Meeting is the Minnesota Dental Association's annual dental meeting, combining continuing education sessions, hands-on workshops, and an exhibit hall at Saint Paul RiverCentre in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
When and where is the 2027 Star of the North Meeting?
The 2027 meeting is scheduled for April 2027 at Saint Paul RiverCentre in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota. Exact dates, registration opening, and schedule details are posted at star.mndental.org.
Who should attend the Star of the North Meeting?
Dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, front-office teams, lab technicians, students, and practice owners from Minnesota and neighboring states attend for CE, hands-on training, and exhibit-hall buying.
Is the meeting open to non-members or out-of-state dental professionals?
Registration is generally open to dental professionals, but member and non-member categories may differ. Check star.mndental.org for eligibility, fees, and any Minnesota-specific requirements.
How do I earn CE credits at the Star of the North Meeting?
Attend eligible sessions and follow the meeting's CE reporting process. Credit details, accepted categories, and attendance verification are listed with each course on the official schedule.
Can I bring my whole dental team?
Yes. The meeting includes sessions and exhibit-hall content for dentists, hygienists, assistants, and front-office staff. Review team registration options and per-person fees on the official registration page.
Is there an exhibit hall at the Star of the North Meeting?
Yes. Dental manufacturers, distributors, software providers, and service companies exhibit at Saint Paul RiverCentre. Hall hours and exhibitor lists are posted on the official meeting site.
How do I register for the Star of the North Meeting?
Register online through star.mndental.org. Advance registration is recommended for CE sessions and hands-on workshops; on-site registration may be available but space can be limited.
What is the cancellation policy for registration?
Cancellation and refund terms can vary by ticket type. Check the registration page or contact the Minnesota Dental Association before booking travel.
Are hotel discounts available for the Star of the North Meeting?
The meeting may list official hotel blocks in downtown Saint Paul. Compare those rates with nearby hotels and book early, since April can be a busy period in the Twin Cities.
Is Saint Paul RiverCentre accessible for attendees with mobility needs?
Saint Paul RiverCentre is a major convention venue with accessibility features. Contact the organiser in advance for specific seating, workshop, or exhibit-hall accommodation requests.
What should I wear to the Star of the North Meeting?
Business casual is typical for dentists and practice owners, while clinical scrubs are common for hygienists and assistants. Comfortable shoes are useful for the exhibit hall and downtown walking.
Glossary
- Continuing Education (CE)
- Credit-bearing courses and hands-on sessions at the Star of the North Meeting that help Minnesota dental professionals meet licensure and renewal requirements. Confirm credit categories and reporting steps with the organiser.
- Hands-on workshop
- Small-group sessions where attendees practice clinical techniques, often with provided equipment or materials. Some workshops may require separate sign-up or a fee beyond general registration.
- Clinical track
- A series of CE sessions grouped by topic such as restorative care, hygiene, or practice management, letting dental teams plan a focused day at the meeting.
- Exhibit hall
- The trade-show floor at Saint Paul RiverCentre where dental manufacturers, distributors, and service providers display equipment, consumables, and technology.
- Dental team
- Dentists, hygienists, assistants, front-office staff, and lab technicians who attend together. The Star of the North Meeting programs sessions for multiple roles, not just dentists.
- Practice management
- Business-side topics such as scheduling, billing, staffing, and patient communication, often covered in non-clinical sessions and in exhibitor booths.
- Infection control
- Protocols for sterilizing instruments and protecting patients and staff. It is relevant to Minnesota dental licensing and is a common exhibit-hall category at the meeting.
- Digital dentistry
- Technologies such as intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM, and digital imaging that appear in the exhibit hall and in clinical sessions focused on workflow and accuracy.
- Minnesota Dental Association (MDA)
- The state dental society that organizes the Star of the North Meeting. Its member dentists and staff shape the CE program and exhibit hall.
- Saint Paul RiverCentre
- The riverfront convention complex in downtown Saint Paul that hosts the Star of the North Meeting's CE sessions and exhibit hall.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Saint Paul dental conference
- Minnesota Dental Association
- dental education
- Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition 2027
- Star 2027
- North Meeting 2027
- Star of the North Meeting & Exhibition Saint Paul 2027
- Star Saint Paul 2027
- North Meeting Saint Paul 2027
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.