From Spark to Spectacle, the Journey Continues
Palm Springs, California AnniversaryConvention & Expo
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
September 22 - 24, 2025
CFEE Classes September 19, 20, 21, 2025
Presented by
INVITING OLD FRIENDS AND NEW - Join us as we celebrate a remarkable journey of seventy years! A journey of memories and milestones; of challenges and triumphs; of strength, durability, and endurance; of friends gained and friends lost; of innovation, inspiration, and imagination. A journey that has bonded families, friends, communities, and our world closer together. From spark to spectacle, a journey that continues as we look to the future.
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable experience at the IFEA’s 70th Anniversary Convention & Expo, presented by atVenu, September 22-24, 2025, at the beautiful Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, in the iconic city of Palm Springs, California! This special milestone event promises a memorable celebration of our shared legacy and the strong foundations that we have laid for the future. Attendees can look forward to unparalleled opportunities for networking, professional growth, education, and inspiration, in a setting known for its breathtaking desert and mountain landscapes, and dynamic event culture.
Plan now to bring your team, invite your professional peers, and meet up with friends – old and new - at this premiere gathering of global festival and event professionals, suppliers, and stakeholders. From those fostering the spark of a new event, to those continuing the long history and successes of globally recognized spectacles, you’ll find something for everyone as we explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities; engage one-on-one with industry leaders; and imagine the future together.
For those looking to reset and refresh, we are ready to help you meet those needs, as well. Located on 240 lush acres, the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa provides a sun-drenched getaway in the tranquil Coachella Valley, against a backdrop of palm trees and mountains. A perfect place to retreat for what attendees have described as the “ultimate events industry family reunion”.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event - join us for an exceptional experience that has served as the heart of the festivals and events community for 70 years!
Register before August 27, 2025 and save! Final registration rates begin, August 28, 2025. Click Here to register today!
*NOTE: The IFEA Annual Convention & Expo footprint will run through 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Be sure to make your travel arrangements accordingly.
*Certified Festival & Event Executive (CFEE) Certification education classes will be scheduled in the days leading up to the convention – September 19, 20, 21, 2025. Separate Registration is Required. For more details, Click Here
Convention Opening & Closing
OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER
FOR THE LOVE OF CITIES AND EVENTS
PETER KAGEYAMA
Urbanist, Author,
Innovator, Placemaker
We’re excited to kick off the IFEA’s 70th Anniversary Convention & Expo presented by atVenu with an inspiring keynote from renowned urbanist and bestselling author Peter Kageyama. With his engaging perspective on community, connection, and creativity, Peter will help us reimagine the vital role of festivals and events in shaping vibrant, emotionally connected places - setting the perfect tone as we look ahead to the next 70 years.
The central element that hasn’t changed in the last 70 years is the critical relationship/partnership between cities and events; but through the historical, evolutionary, and economic ups and downs (not all within our control), that relationship has sometimes been strained, or even forgotten. Come join us for this important and motivating opening keynote/ reminder as we look to the future. Learn how to fall (back) in love with your city; remember the economic benefits, as well as the important emotional engagement between events/ festivals and your community; and learn how to engage your citizens/attendees, sponsors, volunteers, and government officials as development resources. Remember the fun and creative side of community placemaking, as well as the legacies that we leave behind!
Peter Kageyama is an urbanist and bestselling author of four nonfiction books on cities and placemaking. His first book, For the Love of Cities, was recognized as a Top 10 Book in Urban Planning and Development. He speaks all over the world about better placemaking that emphasizes small, inexpensive, and fun approaches to city building. He was a Senior Advisor to the Alliance for Innovation, a national network of city leaders, and is an Ambassador for America in Bloom.
CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER
CELEBRATE HAPPY! KEEPING THE MAGIC ALIVE
STEVEN DAVISON
Lead Creative Executive / Vice President of Parades & Spectaculars, Walt Disney Imagineering
Disney has always represented the gold standard for our industry; emulated and respected by all of our professional peers around the world. As the IFEA celebrates our own 70th Anniversary, Disneyland is celebrating the 70th Anniversary of their iconic flagship, with a theme of ‘Celebrate Happy’. To cap off our convention on a creative and inspired high note, we are very pleased to welcome Walt Disney Imagineering Lead Creative Executive / Vice President of Disney Parades and Spectaculars, Steve Davison, to share the Disney approach to these special milestones; reflecting on the past, looking to the future, and keeping the magic alive for attendees, cast members, partners, and the ‘communities’ that we all have the honor of serving. In his role as Lead Creative Executive, Davison is responsible for the overall creative direction of daytime parades, fireworks displays, and nighttime spectaculars at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide.
Inside The Industry
‘INSIDE THE INDUSTRY’ SESSION
VIEW FROM THE PEAK: COACHELLA, STAGECOACH AND THE FESTIVALS OF GOLDENVOICE
NIC ADLER VP of Festivals, Goldenvoice / AEG Presents
The Coachella Valley of Southern California is probably best known for its two iconic music festivals – the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, and Stagecoach, both held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. Those festivals, and many others, across the country and around the world, are produced by California-based Goldenvoice and AEG Presents. Join us for a very special morning with Nic Adler, Vice President of Festivals for Goldenvoice / AEG Presents, for an ‘Inside the industry’ perspective of the evolution of festivals; our common challenges and opportunities; changing audience and artist trends; host city partnerships; and what we all need to be doing and thinking about to stay relevant in a world that continues to evolve around us.
‘INSIDE THE
INDUSTRY’ SESSION
‘IE’ LIVE: CRYSTAL BALL… PROACTIVELY PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Our industry, as a whole and globally, is in the midst of a unique era of transformation, including both challenges and new opportunities to strengthen our resilience in the years ahead. With coattails still remaining from the industry and world changing pandemic years, we are now facing new economic uncertainties; policy and programming concerns; new tariffs and rising costs; global travel hurdles; DEI and cultural policy impacts; changing attendance and volunteer trends; risk management concerns; changing city and sponsor partnerships; arguable oversaturation of events; and more. Topical challenges for which there are no identified experts, nor ‘best practices,’ yet firmly established.
“If we can’t see it, we cannot change it.” - Ciela Wynter
Believing that to sustain our common successes, across our industry, for the next 70 years and beyond, we must clearly identify our biggest challenges and begin to create new plans for addressing them, we look forward to maximizing our assembled convention brain trust to do just that. Our anniversary gift to the future. Moderated and focused by selected industry leaders, together we will identify, discuss and assemble a strategic priority list and suggested action plan that can serve as a guide for everyone as you return home to your respective organizations, events and communities.
Our conclusions will be shared on-site during the convention and further expanded upon within a special issue of our IFEA quarterly magazine, ie: the business of international events, to be shared with everyone for the common good.
Live: Crystal Ball… Proactively Preparing for the Future
ProfessionalEducation
“Everyblockofstonehas astatueinsideit,anditis thetaskofthesculptor to discover it.”
- Michelangelo
The intent and effort to improve ourselves and our events starts within us all. The greatest opportunities are often hidden within our greatest challenges, but it is up to us to discover them. The greatest ideas may be lying right in front of us, all around us, but it is up to us to recognize them and translate them to our own needs and visions.
For seven decades, the IFEA has provided the festivals and events industry with the very best in professional education and training; a wealth of creative and diverse perspectives; and access to the plethora of expertise and experience that makes up our global industry. The tools to help sculpt our next masterpiece.
As we gather together in Palm Springs, we continue that well-etched tradition, but with a keen awareness of the many new challenges that have presented themselves within our industry and the communities that we serve in recent years. We have drawn upon the insights and input of active industry leadership and other respected voices, from around the globe, and have worked to ensure that attendees at all levels - first timers and repeat attendees, new to the industry or seasoned professional - can all benefit from the answers, ideas and inspiration that is waiting to be discovered. We have done our best to package them in formats that will maximize participation and returns. But it is up to each of us to actively participate and discover the value waiting within.
A sampling of this year’s educational topics, presented/moderated by the top leaders in our global industry, include*, among others: (* subject to change)
Leadership & Management
• For the Love of Cities and Events
• View From the Peak: Coachella, Stagecoach, and the Festivals of Goldenvoice
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively Preparing for the Future
• Celebrate Happy! Keeping the Magic Alive
• A Look at the Festivals & Events Industry in 2025, as You Prepare for 2026
• Inside the Creative Process: Reimaging the Spark and the Spectacle
• Remember Your Spark: The Power of Performance, Purpose, and Positivity
• Using DEI and Placemaking Programs to Inspire People to Reimagine and Reinvent Public Spaces
• Reimagining Tradition: Embracing New, Curated Events in Your Event Portfolio
• Why Sustainability Matters: Meeting the Expectations of Consumers, Sponsors, and Communities
• Beyond the Event: Year-Round Community Engagement that Fuels Festivals
• CEO Affinity Group
• Should the Need Arise: Establishing a Succession Plan
• Inside the New Parade Safety ANSI Standard
• Understanding the Ever-Changing World of Event Insurance
• Inside the International World of Festivals & Events
• The Evolution of a City – Event Partnership: Coachella and Indio, California
• From Empty Spaces to Epic Places: Festival Creation with Heart and Hustle
• Chaos and Curveballs: A Festival Risk Response Challenge
• Backstage Pass: Planning a Drone Show – What You Need to Know
• The Powerful Returns on Pet Events and Festivals
• Don’t Rain on My Parade: The Changing Realities of Local Parades
Sponsorship & Revenues
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively preparing for the Future
• A Look at the Festivals & Events Industry in 2025, as You Prepare for 2026
• Remember Your Spark: The Power of Performance, Purpose, and Positivity
• Sponsorship Deep Dive (Extended Session by the Sponsorship Marketing Association)
• Sponsorship Affinity Group
• Rethinking Sponsorship Targeting and Integration
• A Closer Look at Ticketing Trends
• Keeping Your Sponsors Coming Back for More
• Best Practices in Layout Design, Optimizing Foot Traffic, Vendor/Sponsor Placements, and Safety Concerns
• The Powerful Returns on Pet Events and Festivals
• Why Sustainability Matters: Meeting the Expectations of Consumers, Sponsors, and Communities
• Event Marketing: Unlocking the Power of Geofencing
Technology, Creativity and Innovation
• For the Love of Cities and Events
• View From the Peak: Coachella, Stagecoach, and the Festivals of Goldenvoice
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively Preparing for the Future
• Celebrate Happy! Keeping the Magic Alive
• A Look at the Festivals & Events Industry in 2025, as You Prepare for 2026
• Remember Your Spark: The Power of Performance, Purpose, and Positivity
• Maximizing Social Media with Limited Staff
• Using DEI and Placemaking Programs to Inspire People to Reimagine and Reinvent Public Spaces
• Reimagining Tradition: Embracing New, Curated Events in Your Event Portfolio
• Creating Sensory Accessibility and Inclusion for Those with Invisible Disabilities
• Create Your Own Chatbot with AI – Workshop
• Inside the New Parade Safety ANSI Standard
• Parades Affinity Group
• Backstage Pass: Planning a Drone Show – What You Need to Know
• Don’t Rain on My Parade: The Changing Realities of Local Parades
• Inside the Creative Process: Reimaging the Spark and the Spectacle
• The Powerful Returns on Pet Events and Festivals
• From Empty Spaces to Epic Places: Festival Creation with Heart and Hustle
• Best Practices in Layout Design, Optimizing Foot Traffic, Vendor/Sponsor Placements, and Safety Concerns
• Event Marketing: Unlocking the Power of Geofencing
Operations & Risk Management
• View From the Peak: Coachella, Stagecoach, and the Festivals of Goldenvoice
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively Preparing for the Future
• Building a Risk Management Plan
• Creating Sensory Accessibility and Inclusion for Those with Invisible Disabilities
• Understanding the Ever-Changing World of Event Insurance
• Using DEI and Placemaking Programs to Inspire People to Reimagine and Reinvent Public Spaces
• Why Sustainability Matters: Meeting the Expectations of Consumers, Sponsors, and Communities
• Operations and Risk Management Affinity Group
• Inside the New Parade Safety ANSI Standard
• Parades Affinity Group
• Event Marketing: Unlocking the Power of Geofencing
• Volunteer Affinity Group
• Arts Affinity Group
• Backstage Pass: Planning a Drone Show – What You Need to Know
• Don’t Rain on My Parade: The Changing Realities of Local Parades
• Chaos and Curveballs: A Festival Risk Response Challenge
• The Powerful Returns on Pet Events and Festivals
• The Changing World of Volunteer Management
• Best Practices in Layout Design, Optimizing Foot Traffic, Vendor/Sponsor Placements, and Safety Concerns
ProfessionalEducation
Marketing, Branding and Media Relations
• For the Love of Cities and Events
• View From the Peak: Coachella, Stagecoach, and the Festivals of Goldenvoice
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively Preparing for the Future
• Celebrate Happy! Keeping the Magic Alive
• A Look at the Festivals & Events Industry in 2025, as You Prepare for 2026
• Remember Your Spark: The Power of Performance, Purpose, and Positivity
• Using DEI and Placemaking Programs to Inspire People to Reimagine and Reinvent Public Spaces
• Beyond the Event: Year-Round Community Engagement that Fuels Festivals
• Reimagining Tradition: Embracing New, Curated Events in Your Event Portfolio
• Why Sustainability Matters: Meeting the Expectations of Consumers, Sponsors, and Communities
• Beyond the Event: Year-Round Community Engagement that Fuels Festivals
• Marketing & PR Affinity Group
• Cities, CVB’s, and Tourism Affinity Group
• Chaos and Curveballs: A Festival Risk Response Challenge
• Backstage Pass: Planning a Drone Show – What You Need to Know
• Creating Sensory Accessibility and Inclusion for Those with Invisible Disabilities
• Create Your Own Chatbot with AI – Workshop
• Event Marketing: Unlocking the Power of Geofencing
• Back to PR Basics
• The Evolution of a City – Event Partnership: Coachella and Indio, California
• The Powerful Returns on Pet Events and Festivals
Host City Partnerships
• For the Love of Cities and Events
• View From the Peak: Coachella, Stagecoach, and the Festivals of Goldenvoice
• ‘IE’ Live: Crystal Ball...Proactively Preparing for the Future
• Celebrate Happy! Keeping the Magic Alive
• Remember Your Spark: The Power of Performance, Purpose, and Positivity
• Understanding the Ever-Changing World of Event Insurance
• Using DEI and Placemaking Programs to Inspire People to Reimagine and Reinvent Public Spaces
• Why Sustainability Matters: Meeting the Expectations of Consumers, Sponsors, and Communities
• Reimagining Tradition: Embracing New, Curated Events in Your Event Portfolio
• Beyond the Event: Year-Round Community Engagement that Fuels Festivals
• Creating Sensory Accessibility and Inclusion for Those with Invisible Disabilities
• Inside the New Parade Safety ANSI Standard
• Don’t Rain on My Parade: The Changing Realities of Local Parades
• Cities, CVB’s, and Tourism Affinity Group
• Inside the International World of Festivals & Events
• Inside the Creative Process: Reimaging the Spark and the Spectacle
• The Evolution of a City – Event Partnership: Coachella and Indio, California
SPEAKERS AND NETWORKING LEADERS AT THIS YEAR’S CONVENTION include many of the top professionals (past, present and future) and internationally recognized industry organizations in the world, including*, among others: (*subject to change)
• Peter Kageyama / Sextant Marketing Group
• Goldenvoice / AEG Presents
• Walt Disney Imagineering
• Summerfest
• Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
• SXSW
• Pasadena Tournament of Roses
• ArtsQuest
• Norfolk Festevents
• atVenu
• Sponsorship Marketing Association
• Creative Strategies Group
• SDMRamirez
• Ira Rosen, LLC, Festival & Event Consulting
• IFEA Africa
• The ART of Events
• Kansas State University
• DFEST®
• National Cherry Festival
• Secure Event Solutions
• Saffire
• City of San Jose, California / Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Services / Placemaking Programs
• KultureCity
• IFEA Asia
• Baltimore, Maryland City Recreation & Parks
• Kaliff Insurance
• Rico Solutions
• National Cherry Blossom Festival
• Fanfare Attractions
• City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Office of Special Events
• Innovative Sponsorships
• Des Moines Arts Festival
• Genoways Event Management
• FanFirst
• IFEA Latin America
• Adelman Law Group, PLLC
• Event Safety Alliance
• University of Rhode Island
• TSE Entertainment
• City of Granbury, Texas CVB
• Richmond, Virginia Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities
• Bautista Event Specialists Team
• Pyrotecnico
• Örvényesvölgy Festival, Hungary
• The Parade Company
• Michael Schwandt – Creative Director / Stage Director / Concept Development
• Upbeat Parade Productions
• EventHub
• Pet Friendly Fun
• City of Indio, California
• …and more
Special Focus Opportunities
“There is no better connection to our industry’s global professional network, and the experience, wisdom and support that lies within, than the IFEA.”
– William O’Toole, CFEE Event Development Specialist, Australia
SPONSORSHIP DEEP DIVE
For those with a sponsorship focus, we are very pleased to welcome IFEA association partner SMA (Sponsorship Marketing Association), who will be doing an extended and comprehensive deep-dive session, exploring the current state-of-the-industry and sponsorship landscape; expectations looking forward; and how to strengthen your sponsorship revenues resiliency. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies and proven frameworks that you can implement right away to boost your sponsorship success.
What You’ll Learn:
• Current industry trends, consumer insights and market dynamics
• How changing consumer behaviors are creating new opportunities
• Proven strategies to build resilient, sustainable sponsorship revenue streams
• Best practices for strengthening sponsor relationships
Led by Paula Beadle, SMA Founder, you’ll gain valuable insights from a recognized industry expert who understands the evolving sponsorship ecosystem and what it takes to thrive in today’s competitive environment.
If you are interested in sponsorship growth, don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your success.
(Monday, September 22nd, 10:45 – 11:45 a.m. and continuing from 2:00 – 4:15 p.m.)
“INSIDE THE INDUSTRY” GENERAL SESSIONS
Our “Inside the Industry” general sessions (separate from our Opening and Closing sessions), beginning each day, are built around the goal of providing targeted ‘inside perspective’ presentations, led by selected industry professionals/ motivators, with the intent of helping us all to reimagine and rethink the trends, issues, and opportunities that lie before us. Professional insights and inspiration that we can all take home and put to use in our own careers, events and communities. Come join the conversation from “Inside the Industry.” (Tuesday, September 23rd, 8:00-9:00 a.m. and Wednesday, September 24th, 8:30-9:30 a.m.)
PYROTECNICO DRONE SHOW
‘BACKSTAGE PASS’ SESSION
Valued IFEA partner Pyrotecnico will be presenting a special 70th Anniversary Drone Show on Tuesday evening, September 23rd, as a cap to the IFEA Foundation’s Platinum Palms Pool Party & Auction. Prior to that, they will be doing a ‘Backstage Pass’ session, with a visit to their onsite launch site, for an inside look at the creation of the show. A session sure to spark your imagination and creativity. (Stop by their Expo booth on Tuesday and Wednesday to thank them for the show, and to see how you might use their expertise and services.)
“AFFINITY GROUP” SESSIONS
IFEA Convention attendees have a unique opportunity to share “common ground” conversations, in person, with your professional peers, discussing current trends, issues, challenges and opportunities, during our popular “Affinity Group” Sessions (with lengthened sessions and small group breakout conversations this year), including those for:
• CEO’s
• Sponsorship
• Cities, CVB’s & Tourism
• Arts Events
• Volunteer Programs
• Operations & Risk Management
• Marketing & PR
• Parades
Held virtually throughout the year on-line, we invite you to join us in person for this increased networking and exchange opportunity. Bring your questions and professional experience to these valuable open-topic dialogue sessions. (*All sessions are subject to change.)
A FIRST-TIMER’S ROADMAP TO MAXIMIZING THE IFEA AND CONVENTION
Before you hit the ground running, stop by to meet the IFEA ‘family’ on Sunday evening, September 21st, from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., at our “First-Timer’s Road Map” session. Designed to give our first-time convention attendees, as well as our long-time IFEA ‘family’ attendees, an opportunity to meet some valuable new friends, share some insider tips
“The fire and ability to change our events, our cities and our world…to touch lives… lies within each one of us, but it must be lit. The IFEA global network provides the inspiration, motivation and support to ignite so many possibilities.”
-
Peter Kagwa, President IFEA Africa Founder, Events Warehouse; Kampala, Uganda
and advice on how to maximize the days ahead, and get your convention experience off to a fun start. Then, join us for Happy Hour in the DFEST® Hospitality Suite (Presidential Suite 3012), to meet more new friends, find some dinner partners, and let the networking conversations begin!
ON THE RIGHT TRACK
IFEA educational sessions are selected to ensure that we cover a wide range of important topical areas. For those who are interested in following a specific track/focus of sessions, those will be broken out for you in our official convention program to make scheduling your time easier. Tracks will include:
• Leadership & Management
• Sponsorship & Revenues
• Operations & Risk Management
• Marketing, Branding and Media Relations
• Technology, Creativity, and Innovation
• Host City Partnerships (*All sessions are subject to change.)
Success and Achievement
Celebrating and recognizing the outstanding achievements of friends and peers, whose confidence and careers have expanded our creative and professional horizons for seven decades, is a big part of what makes the IFEA Annual Convention both valuable and memorable. As we look to the future of our events and industry, we are confident that these exemplary individuals, organizations, and cities will continue to inspire and guide us all for decades to come.
IFEA AWARDS LUNCHEON
There are few things that mean more than being recognized by your professional peers. Don’t miss the 2025 IFEA Awards Luncheon (Monday, September 22nd, 12:15 – 1:45 p.m.), as we pause to pay tribute to the people who have made/make our industry great and who continue to inspire our profession on so many levels through their own personal commitment and creativity. Join your global peers as we:
• Recognize our 2025 CFEE (Certified Festival & Event Executive) Graduates, who continue to raise the bar for everyone in our industry (the CFEE Professional Certification Program is sponsored by IFEA Association Endorsed Partner Kaliff Insurance);
• Award the 2025 IFEA Volunteer of the Year Award, recognizing the contribution of all volunteers to the success of our global events (the IFEA Volunteer of the Year Award is sponsored by SecurEvent Solutions);
• Recognize the Recipients of our 2025 IFEA World Festival & Event City Award, recognizing outstanding city/event partnerships around the world; and
• Pay tribute to our 2025 IFEA Hall of Fame Inductee(s), the highest honor bestowed in our field, in acknowledgment of their tremendous dedication to and impact on the festivals and events industry.
Event solutions Secur
“There is no greater honor than to be recognized by those who understand what you do.”
- Tom Bisignano, CFEE, Head of Event Delivery, Entertainment & Events Group, FIFA World Cup 2026, 2019 IFEA Hall of Fame Inductee
2025 GRAND PINNACLE
IFEA / HAAS & WILKERSON INSURANCE PINNACLE AWARDS – CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF INSPIRED EVENT RECOGNITION
Join us as we put a memorable cap on the first day of the convention (Monday, September 22nd, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.) with the most anticipated event of the year. The IFEA / Haas & Wilkerson Insurance Pinnacle Awards celebrates 30 years of recognizing inspired events in 2025, as we pay tribute to both creativity and excellence in multiple categories, from marketing to merchandise; operations to sponsorship; and much, much more; all leading up to the presentation of the coveted Grand Pinnacle Awards. This is the Academy Awards Ceremony for the festivals and events
industry. The IFEA / Haas & Wilkerson Insurance Pinnacle Awards, recognizing festival and event excellence, have been sponsored by and made possible for 30 years by Haas & Wilkerson Insurance. Don’t miss this unopposed special event as we all wait to hear…“And the Pinnacle Award goes to…”
INTRODUCING THE NEW IFEA/HAAS & WILKERSON GRAND PINNACLE AWARD!
In celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards, we are proud to unveil the newly designed Grand Pinnacle Award—a refreshed symbol of excellence that will serve as the highest honor of our awards program moving forward.
Informal Gatherings
One of the best parts of any professional convention is the chance to spend some dedicated time with friends and peersreconnecting, looking ahead, planning that next great idea, sharing a laugh, a challenge, or a special memory. The IFEA Annual Convention & Expo provides plenty of opportunities for those special informal and memorable gatherings and conversations.
“The ready access to the best in our business, not only in sessions, but in every hallway, reception, and hospitality suite, is unprecedented. Our staff looks forward to the IFEA Convention each year and consider the IFEA as part of the team that helps ensure our success.”
– David Eads Executive Director & CEO Pasadena Tournament of Roses
“CONNECTIONS CAFÉ”
“Connections Café,” sponsored by Eventeny, is the center of IFEA daytime gatherings and conversations. Located at the heart of the convention sessions and activities, “Connections Café” is open every day throughout the convention, providing coffee and a relaxing atmosphere conducive to doing business one-on-one or simply catching up with friends. Promoting human connections – while cyber ones are accessible too - this popular venue is always a favorite hang-out, providing the perfect setting for strengthening those personal connections that are so important to everyone’s success.
DFEST® HOSPITALITY SUITE
The DFEST ® Hospitality Suite, co-sponsored by long-time IFEA supporter and Association Endorsed Partner, DFEST®, is as much a part of the IFEA Convention as our breakout sessions, and we look forward to extending a warm Palm Springs welcome to everyone! Located in the Presidential Suite (3012), and open on Sunday night, September 21st (beginning at 6:00 p.m.) to meet up with old friends and new, before dinner; Monday night, September 22nd (beginning at 9:00 p.m.); and Tuesday night, September 23rd (beginning at 10:30 p.m.), the DFEST® Hospitality Suite provides convention attendees with a time and a place to unwind, relax and connect outside of scheduled sessions and functions. For more than three decades the DFEST® Hospitality Suite has been recognized as the hub of the IFEA’s convention networking system.
A FREE EVENING OF DINING AND NETWORKING IN PALM SPRINGS
Monday evening, September 22nd, offers the perfect opportunity to join up with your IFEA friends and professional peers to explore some of the many and varied culinary options offered by Palm Springs; some located on-site, others within easy walking distance of the hotel, and still others a short Uber or cab ride away. The hotel staff and local friends (see suggestions from local area IFEA members inside your convention bag) can help with suggestions and directions.
ONE ON ONE OPPORTUNITIES
The IFEA Annual Convention & Expo offers all attendees the unique opportunity, in one place and at one time, to be exposed to global industry leaders from festivals and events, large and small; host cities and municipalities; tourism organizations; IFEA partner associations; corporate and media representatives; academic institutions and more.
WHO WILL YOU MEET AT THE IFEA CONVENTION?
• Seasoned Festival & Event Professionals
• Those New to the Festivals & Events Industry
• Festival & Event Board Members
• Host City Leadership
• Key Volunteers
• Festival & Event Sponsors/Sponsorship Agencies
• Suppliers to the Festivals & Events Industry
• Industry Consultants
• The Creative Sparks Behind IFEA Award-Winning Events & Cities
• Tourism Organizations, CVBs, and Chambers of Commerce
• Parks & Recreation Staff
• Educational Institutions/Faculty/Students
• Media Representatives
• Representatives from Allied Industry Associations
• Professional ‘Experience Management’ Peers from Around the World
• All those with an Interest/Stake in the Festivals & Events Field
Start building and adding to your professional network today.
“Personal relationships are the most important key to good business. You can buy mailing lists; you can’t buy friendships. And the most valuable personal relationships are best built face-to-face. For nearly seven decades the IFEA has been bringing our industry together face-to-face”
– Vanessa Van de Putte President & COO, DFEST®
SPECIAL INCENTIVE: Get $100 off your 2026 IFEA Convention Registration when you spend $100 or more in NEW business with an IFEA exhibitor! Maximum discount credit of $500 per organization. This special incentive is good through 03/31/26.
IFEA EXPO: THE GATEWAY TO CREATIVE NEW PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN EVENTS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS
As we revisit our events from every angle, looking forward, the most successful festivals and events in our industry share an important commonality; an understanding that the suppliers and vendors who support our industry are a critical part of keeping our events innovative, fresh, and dynamic. They are among our most committed stakeholders. They share their experience and skills with us, help us to meet new challenges with cost-effective solutions, and partner with us to turn our creative ideas and visions into successful realities. They help us to elevate the event experience for our attendees and our communities and provide us with new perspectives and support that make them an irreplaceable part of our success, and we, theirs.
“What limits us most in life is the picture in our head of how it is supposed to be vs. what it could be. Reimagining the possibilities provides a new energy for ourselves and our teams and new inspiration for us to share with our peers.”
– Kat Paye,
CFEE, Executive Director, National Cherry Festival
The IFEA Expo is one of the most important components of our convention. Geared specifically to festival and event innovators and decision-makers, the IFEA Expo features creative and leading-edge ideas, products and services for all things imaginable; including: aerial effects; artist management; attractions: audio/visual equipment; banners/flags; cash management; cleaning/recycling; communications; consultants; costumes/mascots; crowd control; décor/displays/backdrops; drone shows; entertainment; event equipment; software/ apps; exhibitor/vendor management; fireworks; floats/props; fundraising; group trip planning; inflatables; insurance/risk management; laser light shows; marketing; merchandising; production company; promotional products; restrooms; safety/ security; signage/decals; sponsorships; staging/tents; ticketing; sustainability; volunteer management; website design; and much, much, more; often times at special convention pricing! Bring your list, your creativity, and your challenges and you will find many of the answers you are looking for (and often not expecting) at the IFEA Expo!
The IFEA Expo will be open on Tuesday, September 23rd, from 12:15 to 3:15 p.m., and Wednesday, September 24th, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., and is unopposed by any other sessions or activities, ensuring that you have the quality time you need to explore that next great idea and negotiate your best deals!
*Lunch (Co-Sponsored by Imperial Events Security Services and EVENTIM USA) will be served and available in the Expo on both days. *Connections Café coffee service will be available in the lobby while the trade show is open.
To learn more about the IFEA Expo, or to Register to Exhibit, Click Here
RaisePersonalYour Bar
CFEE FastTrack© PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION CLASSES
Sponsored by IFEA Association Endorsed Partner Kaliff Insurance, the IFEA’s Certified Festival & Event Executive (CFEE) FastTrack© program allows festival and event industry professionals to complete their professional certification and all required program components in one year and at special pricing that represents a substantial savings over class-by-class scheduling.
“Never stop raising the bar. The future belongs to those who continue to grow their knowledge base, expand their professional network, and stretch new boundaries of creativity.”
– Cindy Lerick, CFEE Founder & CEO
The ART of Events, LLC Instructor, Kansas State University
CFEE classes, a required component toward the achievement of professional certification, are taught by leading professionals in our field and are open to all who desire to attend. Three of the six required core curriculum classes are offered each year, leading into the convention, on a rotating basis. New 2025 CFEE participants can potentially complete all of their required classes, electives, and written/speaking obligations in time to receive their CFEE Professional Certification at the 2026 Convention! And those who started in 2024 or before (through our live or virtual CFEE training) may be receiving theirs in Palm Springs! (Note: Those completing only the six CFEE core curriculum classes will receive a CFEA (Certified Festival & Event Associate) Certificate, recognizing your educational accomplishment, but will not be recognized at the convention CFEE graduation.
THE 2025 FULL-DAY CFEE SEMINARS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
Sponsorship & Sponsor
Service
Friday, September 19th, 2025 • 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Over the past generation the sponsorship of festivals and special events has evolved from the quasi-donation of money by a local business to a sophisticated marketing relationship involving the exchange of mutual value. The development of a comprehensive sponsorship/valuation plan and successful fulfillment program involves the coordination of numerous details and a working knowledge of a variety of critical factors. This area of instruction is designed to provide information about the fundamentals of sponsorship. Learn More
Presented by Bruce Erley, CFEE, APR, President & CEO, Creative Strategies Group | IFEA World Board Member, Denver, CO, USA
Marketing & Media Relations
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 • 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
A strong marketing vision, direction, and ultimately a plan is essential in successful promotion of any company’s products or services. This area of instruction is designed to look at and provide an overview of marketing and media relations and specifically how these
To learn more about the CFEE Certification, or to Register, Click Here
functions can be used to the unique needs of the festival and special events industry.. Learn More
Presented by David Ramirez, CFEE, Founder, SDMRamirez | IFEA Foundation Board Member, San Antonio, TX, USA
Administration & Management
Sunday, September 21st, 2025 • 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Using the development of a model business plan as a guide, these sessions will explore and reveal the process by which successful administration and management programs are developed. Session attendees will explore the ins and outs of managing a board of directors, building an effective leadership and administration team, identifying budget targets and making them work, establishing marketing plans, identifying competition and establishing a business paradigm that will give more, “gravitas,” to an event-producing organization. Learn More
Presented by: Ira Rosen, MA, CFEE, Ira Rosen, LLC | IFEA Foundation Board Member, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Sponsored by
Return on Investment
We are so confident you will return home from the IFEA 70th Anniversary Convention & Expo with at least one idea, approach, relationship, or renewed energy and enthusiasm, that is worth at least the value of attending (and you actually did attend), that we are willing to guarantee a return on your investment. If not, you can write to us (with a “cc” to your board) explaining how you did not receive a return on your investment and we will refund your full registration fee.
“The City of Philadelphia’s popularity in the event world continues to grow in leaps and bounds. We have been very fortunate to have our work recognized around the world and our office and team have benefited tremendously from being a part of the IFEA. As a very forward-thinking city, who believes in positive collaborations, we are happy to be an active participant in the IFEA’s global vision.”
– Jazelle Jones City Representative and Director of Special Events City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Especially in today’s world, the IFEA understands that Return-On-Investment (ROI) is and should be a primary consideration of every leader – events, sponsors, municipalities, tourism organizations and others. With that at the forefront of our minds and conversations, we have designed the IFEA Annual Convention & Expo to provide the highest level of return possible, from every perspective – time, resources, information, creativity, and access to the strongest network of professionals in our global industry.
Whether you are a first-time or a long-time IFEA Convention & Expo attendee, it won’t be difficult to recognize the virtually limitless opportunities provided through professional conversations and networking; our all-inclusive registration, with no separately-ticketed events; our welcoming and event-supportive Palm Springs, California location; an amazing hotel value at our host hotel; convenient access to professional certification courses prior to the official start of the convention (as your schedule may allow); and much more, including a professional plethora of educational sessions; daily keynote and general sessions; targeted discussion and direct participation groups; and ready access to IFEA Expo vendors and suppliers, convention speakers, and other global industry leaders who, together, are the foundation of the IFEA experience, and the core of our global industry conversation.
CONVENTION SCHOLARSHIPS
Since its’ founding in 1993 the IFEA Foundation has provided scholarship assistance to over 300 students, new professionals, and financially challenged events, allowing them to attend the IFEA Annual Convention & Expo, CFEE programs, and other special programs. Scholarship recipients are able to return home with new ideas, information, motivation, and a clear focus to take their own events and careers to the next level. Up to 20 IFEA Foundation Legacy Scholarship recipients are eligible to join us at each year’s IFEA Convention. If you are interested in how you might apply for or provide support for future IFEA Foundation scholarships, more information is available in the Foundation section of the IFEA home page at www.ifea.com
For the most up-to-date information on the IFEA Convention—visit our website at ifea.com, proudly sponsored and powered by our Association Endorsed Partner, Saffire.
Platinum Palms Pool Party & Auction
Dive into a night of nostalgia and desert glam as we celebrate the IFEA’s 70th anniversary with the IFEA Foundation’s Platinum Palms Pool Party & Auction, for a memorable night with good friends to benefit the IFEA’s ongoing educational mission! Set against the backdrop of swaying palms, glistening waters, and mid-century modern flair, this unforgettable evening blends classic Palm Springs cool with the radiant energy of the global festivals and events community.
Slip into your chic resort wear and join us poolside along the lazy river at the Omni Las Palmas Resort’s ‘Splashtopia’ waterpark for an informal evening of food, fun, music, and more! Grab a signature anniversary cocktail, network with friends – old and new, enjoy some savory bites, kick back in a lounge chair under the stars, participate in a variety of Foundation games and activities, and enjoy a perfect celebration of the legacy that we have built together - and the brilliant future ahead.
Leading into the event and throughout the night, be sure to bid in our online auction on an exciting array of fun and relaxing getaways; unique and practical gifts for yourself, family and friends; or perhaps a must-have product or service that helps your festival/event.
Our primary, annual fundraising event, the IFEA Foundation Auction is an all-important source of support that allows us to confidently provide convention scholarships and travel support to many new and aspiring professionals who will become the next generation of industry leadership, and to those deserving organizations working to build a solid and successful foundation for their festivals, events, and communities. The funds raised also support our capabilities to provide top-quality industry presenters, speakers and programming; professional training; publications; and critical resources; while helping us to raise the bar for everyone in our global industry as we look ahead to the next 70 years!
Helping us to close out this special night, our friends at Pyrotecnico will treat everyone to a special IFEA 70th Anniversary drone show, as we toast to the future! (Please be sure to visit their Expo booth to thank them and to learn how you might work with them for your own events.)
Dress Code: Resort glam — think flowy fabrics, flowery shirts, and poolside sophistication.
Best of all, the IFEA Foundation Night Platinum Palms Pool Party & Auction is included at no extra charge as part of your convention registration! So, mark your calendar now and plan to be there for this special evening!
Note: To learn more or to donate an Auction item, Click Here
IFEA Annual Convention & Expo -
IFEA MEMBER CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM th
Anniversary Convention & Expo
1. ORGANIZATION INFORMATION
Return To: Mail: IFEA 10400 Overland Rd. #356, Boise, ID 83709, U.S.A.
Phone: +1-208-433-0950 | Or - Register / Pay Online - Here.
Payment Form: Please complete this form for all those attending the Convention from the same organization. Please use page 1 to add organization information and page 2 to add all individuals from that organization. Be sure to complete sections 1, 2, 3, (4 optional) and 5.)
(Please add complete details for each attendee being registered on the 2nd page. Duplicate page as necessary.)
Organization:
Phone: Website:
2. ORGANIZATION CATEGORY: Please indicate which category you/your organization falls into from the list below: (Please check only one). Affiliate Chapter Association Chamber of Commerce
3. CONVENTION REGISTRATION FEES: (Please submit all monies in U.S. Dollars only.)
3rd, 4th
ADDITIONAL REGISTRATION TYPES:
(Social Activities Only. Does NOT Include educational sessions.)
REGISTRATION FEES INCLUDE: All Educational Sessions during the main convention; All Coffee Breaks at Connections Café; Entrance to the dfest ® Hospitality Suite; Entrance to the IFEA Awards Luncheon & Pinnacle Awards Presentation; Entrance to the IFEA Expo in addition to Lunch at the Expo on both days; IFEA Foundation Auction Night Event; IFEA Convention Program Book & Convention Attendee List; Registration does not include CFEE Certification Classes or Expo Exhibitor Registration. Separate registration required for each. If registering for CFEE Core Classes or an IFEA Expo Booth, please use the separate registration forms found at www.ifea.com.
4. IFEA FOUNDATION DONATION: The IFEA Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, works hand-in-hand with the IFEA as its primary partner in raising funds for scholarships, educational programs and more. Donations to the IFEA Foundation may be tax deductible and a donation receipt letter will be sent for your records. • Donation Amount (USD):
5. PAYMENT: All fees are payable in U.S. Funds. Your registration form CANNOT be processed until payment is received. A processing fee will apply to all credit card transactions. To ensure that you are pre-registered for the IFEA Convention & Expo, return your signed registration form with full payment no later than 25 days prior to the Convention’s start. After that, please call Kaye Campbell, CFEE to make sure your registration has been received at +1-208-433-0950 ext: 8150.
Select method of payment: VISA MasterCard American
Print Cardholder Name:
Signature:
(AMX-4 digit code front)
6. CANCELLATION POLICY: Full refunds will be provided for cancellations made prior to 30 days from the Convention’s start. A 50% refund will be provided for cancellations made 15-29 days before the Convention’s start. After 15 days prior to the Convention’s start, there will be no refunds for cancellations. Please contact Kaye Campbell for questions or cancellations (kaye@ifea.com or call +1-208-433-0950, Ext. 8150). As a not-for-profit 501(C)6 organization, the IFEA reserves the right to refuse or cancel the registration of any individual or organizational attendee, who, at its sole discretion, may represent/display unprofessional, unlawful, unethical, unsafe, or other actions/positions deemed contrary to the best interests of the IFEA and our global industry. Additionally, the IFEA does not discriminate on any basis including race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disability. For the complete Code of Ethics, visit www.ifea.com. By registering for and attending the IFEA Convention & Expo, you provide the IFEA express permission to use your name, photo and/or likenesses in any and all promotional and/or advertising materials in any medium, including the internet. Additionally, by registering, providing complete contact information and attending the IFEA Convention, consent is provided from all registrants for the IFEA to send emails to the email address listed on this form for each registrant, in addition to listing the complete name and all contact information for each registrant on this form, on the IFEA Convention Attendee List.
INDIVIDUAL ATTENDEE INFORMATION FROM SAME ORGANIZATION
ORGANIZATION:
1st ATTENDEE Convention Attendee
Student Volunteer Guest
Name: _______________________________________________________________ Name for Badge: ____________________________________________
Position Title:
First IFEA Convention Yes No
Date of Birth (mm/yyyy): Year Started Employment in Festivals & Events Industry:
Ice Breaker: What is one unique fact that people wouldn't know about you? _________________________________________________________________ MEAL FUNCTIONS - Please indicate which (if any) of the following meal functions you WILL NOT be attending during the Convention. (All meals are included with your registration by default.)
Only select those you are planning to SKIP
IFEA Awards Luncheon (Monday, Sept 22)
IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Presentation (Monday, Sept 22)
IFEA Expo Lunch (Tuesday, Sept 22) IFEA Foundation Night Party (Tuesday, September 23) IFEA Expo Lunch (Wednesday, Sept 24)
Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian Vegan Gluten Free
Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City, State/Province, Zip Code : Country:
Phone:
E-mail: __________________________________________________________
2nd ATTENDEE Convention Attendee
_______________________________________________________
Student Volunteer Guest
Name: Name for Badge:
Position Title: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Date of Birth (mm/yyyy):
Ice Breaker: What is one unique fact that people wouldn't know about you?
First IFEA Convention Yes No
Year Started Employment in Festivals & Events Industry: __________________
MEAL FUNCTIONS - Please indicate which (if any) of the following meal functions you WILL NOT be attending during the Convention. (All meals are included with your registration by default.)
Only select those you are planning to SKIP
IFEA Awards Luncheon (Monday, Sept 22)
IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Presentation (Monday, Sept 22)
IFEA Expo Lunch (Tuesday, Sept 22) IFEA Foundation Night Party (Tuesday, September 23) IFEA Expo Lunch (Wednesday, Sept 24)
Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian Vegan Gluten Free
Address:
City, State/Province, Zip Code : ________________________________________________________________________ Country: __________________________
Phone: Cell Phone:
E-mail:
3rd ATTENDEE Convention Attendee Student Volunteer Guest
Name: Name for Badge:
Position Title: First IFEA Convention Yes No
Date of Birth (mm/yyyy): ________________________________________________ Year Started Employment in Festivals & Events Industry: __________________
Ice Breaker: What is one unique fact that people wouldn't know about you?
MEAL FUNCTIONS - Please indicate which (if any) of the following meal functions you WILL NOT be attending during the Convention. (All meals are included with your registration by default.)
Only select those you are planning to SKIP
IFEA Awards Luncheon (Monday, Sept 22)
IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Presentation (Monday, Sept 22) IFEA Expo Lunch (Tuesday, Sept 22) IFEA Foundation Night Party (Tuesday, September 23) IFEA Expo Lunch (Wednesday, Sept 24)
Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian Vegan Gluten Free
Address:
City, State/Province, Zip Code : Country:
E-mail:
THE VALUE OF PARTNERSHIPS –
Through the generosity of our partners below, we are able to strengthen our support of the festivals and events industry and continue to provide high quality, educational programs, products and services to our members.
Help us thank them for their support, by first turning to those on this list for the opportunity to earn your business, whenever the need arises.
ASSOCIATION & CONVENTION SPONSORS ASSOCIATION
