The TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show 2026 is the premier annual gathering for Wisconsin's tavern and hospitality industry, hosted by the Tavern League of Wisconsin
Dates
5–8 Oct 2026
City / country
United States
Venue
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions
Time
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show 2026 include Allutional - Telehealth, Anheuser-Busch, Associated Bank, Awesome Snack Stixx and B&K Bar & Restaurant Supplies.
Event overview
The TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show is the signature annual event of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, designed specifically for owners and managers of taverns, bars, and restaurants across the state.
The 2026 edition runs from October 5-8 at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Green Bay.
The convention offers a comprehensive program including educational seminars on regulatory compliance, operational best practices, and industry trends, alongside a bustling trade show where exhibitors showcase the latest in beverages, draft systems, foodservice equipment, point-of-sale technology, and promotional services
TL;DR
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
On-site self-parking is available at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions for guests and convention attendees. Valet parking may also be offered at additional cost
Kalahari Resorts is ADA-compliant with wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and convention spaces. The resort provides accessible guest rooms and ramps throughout public areas
A complimentary coat check is available at the convention registration area. Attendees can store outerwear while exploring the trade show floor
Luggage storage is available at the hotel front desk for guests and at the convention registration desk during show hours
Charging stations are located in the convention center lobbies and throughout the resort. Additionally, the resort offers mobile phone charging lockers for rent
Food options
Sortino's Italian Kitchen, Cinco Ninos, Concession and Snack Stands
On-site diningParking: The event is held at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, which has on-site parking available for guests and attendees
Attend
Event days & opening times
Member Full Registration
Estimate based on 2024 Fall Convention; verify on portal
Member One-Day Pass
Estimate based on 2024 Fall Convention
Non-Member Full Registration
Estimate based on 2024 Fall Convention
Non-Member One-Day Pass
Estimate based on 2024 Fall Convention
President's Reception
$25 donation to TIPAC for admission (Wednesday)
Ticket info
Badge collection
Check in at the Registration desk at Kalahari Resort during posted hours (Tue–Wed 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Wed 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.). Bring photo ID.
Ticket notes
Registration is required for tavern owners, operators, and hospitality professionals. TLW member rates apply. 2024 pricing was $60 full / $30 one-day (member) and $80 / $40 (non-member). President's Reception requires a $25 TIPAC donation. Confirm 2026 rates on the registration portal.
Build-up & tear-down
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026
No official 2026 edition metrics have been published by the organiser
Visitors
1,000
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show 2026 serves as the essential annual marketplace for Wisconsin's $1.4 billion bar and nightclub industry, connecting 4,925+ licensed establishments with suppliers of beverages, equipment, and services. In a dynamic environment marked by craft beverage expansion, shifting consumer preferences toward non-alcoholic options and diversified experiences, and strong tourism-driven visitor spending, the event provides tavern owners and operators with critical education on regulatory compliance, operational best practices, and direct access to vendors. The convention's location in Green Bay—a hub for sports tourism and conventions—amplifies its relevance for hospitality professionals seeking to capitalize on the region's robust visitor economy
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Wisconsin Craft Beverage Market Expansion
Wisconsin's craft beer scene shows resilience with taproom openings (16 new establishments) outpacing closures (11 closures in 2026), indicating a dynamic market where new entrants and expansions continue despite some shutdowns
SourceRise of Non-Alcoholic Offerings and Diversified Bar Experiences
Consumer interest in Dry January and non-alcoholic beverages is prompting bars and breweries to expand food menus, event programming, and NA drink options to maintain customer traffic during slow periods, showing a shift toward inclusive hospitality
SourceStrong Tourism and Convention Activity Supporting Hospitality Sector
Green Bay and Wisconsin tourism remain robust with major events, sports tournaments, and conventions generating significant room nights and economic impact, directly benefiting taverns, bars, and hospitality businesses that rely on visitor spending
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
The TLW Fall Convention is Wisconsin's premier hospitality event, but attendees and exhibitors may also consider complementary events in the broader Midwest region for networking, sourcing, and education
Wisconsin Restaurant Association Expo
Milwaukee, United States
Serves the full restaurant and foodservice industry, overlapping with tavern and bar operators but with a wider scope
websiteGreat Lakes Craft Beer Conference
Chicago, United States
Regional beer and beverage conference; may draw similar suppliers and Wisconsin attendees
Midwest Hospitality Expo
Indianapolis, United States
Covers hotels, restaurants, and bars across the Midwest; notable regional overlap
National Restaurant Association Show
Chicago, United States
The largest foodservice and hospitality trade show in the U.S.; draws national and international attendees and exhibitors
websiteFall 2026
Two major regional events within 6 weeks; opportunities for sequential planning
Spring 2027
Spring events offer different geographic and scale options for exhibitors and attendees
Event dates are based on organiser-published or historical scheduling. Many 2026/2027 event websites are under development or not publicly accessible; dates may shift
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Green Bay–Austin Straubel International Airport
The nearest commercial airport to Green Bay; served by American, Delta, Frontier, and United. Used for events held in Green Bay proper
approximately 112 miles (180 km) from Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells
to venue
about 2 hours 15 minutes via I-41 S and I-90 W
by car
Dane County Regional Airport (Madison)
Closest major airport to the Wisconsin Dells venue; offers the most convenient access with multiple daily flights and rental car options
approximately 56 miles (90 km) from Kalahari Resorts
to venue
about 1 hour via I-90 W and US-12 W
by car
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Larger international airport with more flight options, including international connections; a good alternative for attendees from farther distances
approximately 125 miles (201 km) from Kalahari Resorts
to venue
about 2 hours via I-94 W and I-90 W
by car
Chicago O'Hare International Airport
Major international hub with extensive flight network; suitable for international attendees willing to drive or take connecting flights
approximately 180 miles (290 km) from Kalahari Resorts
to venue
about 3 hours via I-90 W
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 80–120 / night
Estimated rates for budget hotels, motels, and inns within a 10-15 minute drive of Kalahari Resorts. Prices may fluctuate based on season and demand
USD 120–200 / night
Estimated rates for mid-range hotels and resorts, including many waterpark resorts and well-known chains, typically within 5-10 minutes of the venue
USD 200–350 / night
Estimated rates for premium hotels, luxury resorts, and exclusive properties in the area, including the Kalahari Resort itself. Prices can exceed $400 during peak times
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Taxi / Ride-share
Estimated one-way fare. Travel time approximately 1 hour. Uber and Lyft are available in the Wisconsin Dells area, though service may be limited compared to larger cities
Taxi / Ride-share
Estimated one-way fare. Travel time approximately 2 hours 15 minutes via I-41 S and I-90 W. Ride-share availability may be more limited from this airport
Bus / Shuttle
Coach USA / Van Galder bus service connects Madison to Wisconsin Dells. From the Wisconsin Dells bus stop, take a taxi or ride-share to the Kalahari Resort (approximately 5-10 minute drive)
Hotel Shuttle
Many hotels in the Wisconsin Dells area offer complimentary shuttle service to Kalahari Resorts. Check with your hotel for availability and schedules
Rental Car
Rental cars are available at both MSN and GRB airports. Driving provides flexibility to explore the Wisconsin Dells area and Green Bay attractions. On-site parking at Kalahari is free
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
For entry to the United States for business or tourism, the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows nationals of 41 countries to enter without a visa for stays up to 90 days, provided they obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) prior to travel. Nationalities not in the VWP must obtain a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling
The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for exhibitions or fairs. Carnets must be presented to U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon entry and exit. The U.S. is a member of the ATA Carnet system and accepts both paper and digital carnets at most ports of entry
Official visa pageWeather
Green Bay and Wisconsin Dells in early October experience cool autumn conditions. Average high temperatures are around 60°F (15°C) with lows near 40°F (4°C). Rain is possible with average precipitation of about 2.5–3 inches for the month. Pack layers including a warm jacket, sweaters, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or raincoat
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The Wisconsin Dells area is accessible by car via Interstates 90 and 94, with the venue located on Kalahari Drive off I-90. Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is the closest airport with car rental services and shuttle options. Greyhound and Coach USA / Van Galder bus services connect Madison and Wisconsin Dells. Green Bay proper has local bus service via Green Bay Metro, but for intercity travel to the venue, rental cars are recommended. Downtown Green Bay and Titletown districts are walkable, but the convention site in Wisconsin Dells requires ground transport from Green Bay area hotels
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Wisconsin Tavern Culture
Wisconsin is known for its deep-rooted tavern and beer culture, with over 4,900 licensed bars. The brandy Old Fashioned is the unofficial state cocktail, a supper club staple often served sweet or sour with a cherry and orange garnish. The state's hospitality industry is tight-knit, and the Tavern League of Wisconsin serves as the primary trade association, making this convention a gathering of peers with shared regional traditions
Green Bay and the Packers
Green Bay is the smallest US city with a major professional sports franchise, and the Packers are community-owned. Game days are major social events, with tailgating and community gatherings. Lambeau Field and the Titletown District are cultural landmarks worth exploring
Dining Traditions
Wisconsin supper clubs are iconic, featuring relish trays, brandy Old Fashioneds, and steaks or fish fry. Friday night fish fries and Sunday brunch are community traditions. Cheese curds, frozen custard, and local craft beer are common menu staples
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: MSN (Dane County Regional Airport, Madison, WI) is the preferred airport for easy access to the Wisconsin Dells venue
Book flights 6-8 weeks in advance for best rates. Madison (MSN) is the closest and most convenient option. Green Bay (GRB) is also feasible but requires a 2-hour drive to the Wisconsin Dells venue. Consider rental car reservations well in advance due to convention demand
Book flightsMost international attendees require a visa or ESTA to enter the U.S. for the convention. Attendees from Visa Waiver Program countries need an ESTA; all others need a B-1 business visa
Processing: 3-5 weeks
B-1 visa application fee is $185. ESTA for VWP countries costs $21. Apply early, as wait times vary by embassy. Attendees should carry the event invitation letter and proof of registration for immigration review
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-10-04
Check-out (recommended)
2026-10-08
Areas to stay
Wisconsin Dells · Baraboo · Lake Delton · Portage
Budget
$80-$120 per night
Mid-Range
$120-$200 per night
Premium
$200-$350+ per night
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: The nearest major airport is Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, about 56 miles (1 hour drive) from Kalahari Resorts. Taxi/rideshare costs approximately $100-$150 one-way. Green Bay (GRB) is also accessible but requires a 2.5-hour drive
Hotel → venue: Most area hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to Kalahari Resorts; check with your hotel. Taxis and ride-shares are also readily available in the Wisconsin Dells area
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are available in Wisconsin Dells, though service may be limited compared to larger cities. Plan for potential wait times
Public transit: Public bus service is limited in Wisconsin Dells. The primary public option is Coach USA / Van Galder bus service between Madison and Wisconsin Dells. For local travel, ride-shares or hotel shuttles are recommended
Parking: Kalahari Resorts provides free on-site self-parking for both guests and convention attendees. Valet parking is also available at an additional charge
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October
Temperature: 40°F – 60°F (4°C – 15°C)
Seasonality: Occasional rain; average rainfall ~2.5-3 inches
Packing: Pack layers – sweaters, a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes for the convention floor, and an umbrella or raincoat. Indoor spaces are climate-controlled, so a light layer works inside
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Tuesday or Wednesday
The TLW Trade Show runs on Tuesday and Wednesday, with exhibitor booths, vendor drawings, and the best opportunities to connect with suppliers and service providers. Tuesday also features the General Session with keynote speaker and educational programming
Review exhibitor contract and confirm booth size and location — Confirm all details with TLW and ensure space package is correct
Secure hotel accommodations and travel arrangements — Book hotel early as demand is high. Kalahari Resort room blocks available for a limited time
Order booth materials, graphics, and furniture through official service provider — Place orders before discount deadline to secure best pricing
Arrange freight shipping to advanced warehouse (if available) or direct to show site — Shipping to advanced warehouse can reduce costs and allow more time for unloading
Schedule move-in labor for the day after freight delivery — Order labor for the start of the workday to guarantee times. Plan installation the day after freight is scheduled to arrive
Prepare business cards, address labels, and marketing collateral — Bring plenty of cards and labels for networking, lead capture, and contest entries
Confirm shipping tracking numbers and arrival status — Keep carrier PRO numbers and contact info handy. Confirm all shipments have arrived
Plan booth layout and staff schedule — Assign staff for setup, show hours, and teardown. Review lead capture and follow-up plan
Lambeau Field
Stadium / Attraction
Located in Green Bay (near event venue)
Home of the Green Bay Packers; stadium tours and the Packers Hall of Fame are open to visitors
Wisconsin Dells Waterparks
Family Attraction
Adjacent to Kalahari Resorts
Kalahari itself features one of America's largest indoor waterparks, plus nearby attractions like Noah's Ark and Mt. Olympus
Titletown District
Entertainment District
Adjacent to Lambeau Field in Green Bay
Offers dining, entertainment, fire pits, ice skating, lawn games, and open-air events year-round
TLW Welcome Reception
Official Event Reception
Monday, October 5, 2026 evening – key networking opportunity for all attendees
Tuesday Night Party & Live Auction
Official Event Party
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 featuring live music by The Third Wheels
President's Reception
Official Event Reception
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 – $25 donation to TIPAC for admission
Budget
Pricing not publicly disclosed; exhibitors must register to view costs. Each booth includes up to 4 company representative registrations, invitations to Welcome Reception and Tuesday Night Party/Live Auction
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Registration fee (exhibitor)
exhibitor · standard
—
Hotel per night (budget)
both · budget
USD 80–120 / per night
Hotel per night (mid-range)
both · mid
USD 120–200 / per night
Hotel per night (premium)
both · premium
USD 200–350 / per night
Meals per day
both · standard
USD 50–75 / per day
Taxi/rideshare (MSN to venue)
both · one-way
USD 100–150 / per trip
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registration fee (exhibitor) | exhibitor | standard | — | unknown | 2026-09-01 |
| Hotel per night (budget) | both | budget | USD 80–120 / per night | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
| Hotel per night (mid-range) | both | mid | USD 120–200 / per night | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
| Hotel per night (premium) | both | premium | USD 200–350 / per night | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
| Meals per day | both | standard | USD 50–75 / per day | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
| Taxi/rideshare (MSN to venue) | both | one-way | USD 100–150 / per trip | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
Decision
Answer the following questions to find out whether you should Visit, Exhibit, or Skip the TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show 2026. Higher scores in a category indicate a stronger recommendation
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What is your primary role in the hospitality industry?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You are looking to refresh your offerings, attend educational sessions, and network with peers. If you are unsure about exhibiting, visiting first is a low-risk way to evaluate the event
Best for
Tavern owners, bar managers, and hospitality professionals seeking product sourcing, education, and networking with minimal upfront investment
Min. budget
$500.00
Timeline
1-2 weeks for travel and registration planning
Risks
Limited lead-generation if not actively networking
Travel and accommodation costs can add up
Trade show floor can be overwhelming without a plan
exhibit
You have a proven product or service for the hospitality market and are ready to commit to the sales cycle. Best if you are based in or have a strong presence in the Midwest
Best for
Beverage suppliers, equipment vendors, service providers, and distributors targeting Wisconsin’s tavern and bar market
Min. budget
$2,000.00
Timeline
At least 2-3 months to prepare booth, materials, staff, and travel logistics
Risks
Higher financial commitment with booth fees, travel, and materials
Requires dedicated staff and follow-up to convert leads
Success depends on lead quality and post-show follow-through
skip
If you are not in the hospitality supply chain, have no budget for travel, or the event does not align with your current business cycle. Consider monitoring the event for future years
Best for
Companies or individuals with no direct business interest in Wisconsin's tavern industry or those with conflicting schedules or budgets
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Missing market intelligence and networking opportunities
Losing visibility with a key regional buyer group
Delaying product launches or market entry
FAQs & glossary
Glossary
Trust footer
24
References
18
Publishers
0
Date checked
WFRV Local 5
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
