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The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region.

For fair and exhibition organizers navigating the complex landscape of sponsorship acquisition, Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force.  AI isn't just another tool; it's becoming an indispensable collaborator that will enhance every aspect of your sponsorship program, providing you with a virtual research assistance and create collaborator. This hands-on session with demonstrate the transformative ways you can use AI in your sponsorship efforts including:

• Prospect Identification and Qualification

• Proposal Development and Personalization

• Creative Activation Concepts

• Fulfillment Excellence

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region.

Join us for an in-depth conversation on one of the most ambitious redevelopment projects in the fair and exposition industry: the multi-phase transformation of the National Western Center in Denver, Colorado. This panel will explore the vision, progress, and collaborative process behind the new state-of-the-art buildings shaping the future of the National Western Stock Show as well as a wide variety of year-round events at the National Western Center. 

The session will feature insights from leaders involved in the planning, design, strategy, and execution of the project, including representatives from the architecture and design sector, Colorado State University, Denver Mayor's Office, and long-standing leadership of the National Western Stock Show. Panelists will discuss the innovative infrastructure being developed to serve exhibitors, animals, and visitors year-round, the educational and community engagement goals of the site, and the broader civic partnerships that are driving this transformation. 

Attendees will walk away with actionable insights into public-private collaboration, long-term planning, and the evolution of traditional venues into dynamic, year-round destinations.

Join us for an in-depth conversation on one of the most ambitious redevelopment projects in the fair and exposition industry: the multi-phase transformation of the National Western Center in Denver, Colorado. This panel will explore the vision, progress, and collaborative process behind the new state-of-the-art buildings shaping the future of the National Western Stock Show as well as a wide variety of year-round events at the National Western Center. 

The session will feature insights from leaders involved in the planning, design, strategy, and execution of the project, including representatives from the architecture and design sector, Colorado State University, Denver Mayor's Office, and long-standing leadership of the National Western Stock Show. Panelists will discuss the innovative infrastructure being developed to serve exhibitors, animals, and visitors year-round, the educational and community engagement goals of the site, and the broader civic partnerships that are driving this transformation. 

Attendees will walk away with actionable insights into public-private collaboration, long-term planning, and the evolution of traditional venues into dynamic, year-round destinations.

Explore the essential role that food and beverage operations play in the success of fairs and fairground facilities. This introductory course offers a look at how to build a thriving, guest-focused food and beverage environment that supports both the fair's objectives and the needs of its concessionaires.

The course covers key topics including contract models, vendor selection and placement, menu design, pricing strategies, and layout optimization. Participants will also gain insights into the business realities of mobile food operators and understand the vital “front line” role that concessions play in shaping the guest experience.
This is a for-credit course for Institute of Fair Management (IFM) enrollees and is open to all convention delegates.

ADDITIONAL FEE and PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED – $125*

Public events like fairs and the venues that host them face a wide range of potential threats—from weather emergencies to security incidents. Emergency Planning for Fairs & Fairgrounds (IFM #112) offers a critical foundation in how to prepare for and respond to these risks through an all-hazards planning approach.

This course guides participants through the emergency planning process, covering key components of an effective emergency operations plan. Whether you're building a plan from scratch or updating an existing one, this session will equip you with tools to create a practical, easy-to-understand plan that can serve as the basis for staff training and real-world implementation.

Course highlights include:

• Overview of the all-hazards planning process
• Review of a sample emergency operations plan
• Tips for developing clear, actionable plans
• A team-based planning exercise
• A comprehensive take-home reference manual

This is a required for-credit course for Institute of Fair Management (IFM) enrollees and is open to all attendees, regardless of enrollment status. *Early registration is strongly recommended due to limited seating.

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region. Zone 1 will be conducting an election for a new Director in 2025. 

Do you really know what your insurance policy covers? In today’s ever-evolving risk landscape, understanding fine print is more important than ever. This foundational workshop demystifies essential insurance terms and concepts such as:

• Per incident vs. per claim
• Errors and omissions (E&O)
• Exclusions and conditions
• Property damage and general liability

Designed specifically for new board members and staff, Insurance: The Basics provides a straightforward overview of the insurance needs unique to fair operations. It’s also a valuable refresher for anyone responsible for managing or reviewing insurance policies in the fair industry. 

This is a for-credit course for Institute of Fair Management enrollees and is open to all convention delegates.

Event Management at Its Best offers a comprehensive overview of what it takes to successfully operate and maintain a facility that serves diverse clients and hosts year-round events.

This workshop covers critical elements such as:

• Assessing and marketing your facility’s inventory, amenities, and capabilities
• Building effective staff structures and communication systems
• Streamlining internal planning and external client coordination
• Managing calendars for maximum efficiency
• Navigating food and beverage logistics and revenue strategies

Whether you're a seasoned manager or new to the field, this session equips you with practical tools and insights to elevate your operations and deliver top-tier events.

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region. Zone 3 will be conducting an election for a new Director in 2025. 

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region.

Join us for an engaging workshop that explores how generational differences shape the way we work, communicate, and connect at the fair. From Boomers to Gen Z and beyond, each generation brings unique perspectives, values, and habits that influence everything from collaboration to creativity.

Through guided Q&A, real-world scenarios, and audience participation, we’ll dive into the communication styles, motivations, and expectations that define different age groups. Whether you're collaborating with colleagues, coordinating volunteers, or interacting with vendors and fairgoers, you’ll gain practical strategies to bridge generational gaps and foster stronger, more inclusive connections across your fair community.

In today’s ever-evolving show landscape, attracting fresh talent and increasing participation in competitive exhibits is more crucial than ever. 

This dynamic workshop explores how strategic sponsorships and creative partnerships can be powerful tools to engage new exhibitors, elevate traditional classes, and breathe new life into long-standing competitions.

We'll uncover real-world examples of how agricultural societies, fairs, and expos are working hand-in-hand with sponsors — from local businesses to national brands — to co-create incentive programs, modernize exhibit spaces, and enhance the exhibitor experience. Learn how to align sponsor objectives with exhibit outcomes, develop win-win collaborations, and unlock funding opportunities that support education, innovation, and growth in your competitions.

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region.

This engaging and practical workshop dives into how fairs can successfully blend the old with the new in their competitive exhibits. 

As traditions evolve and audiences change, fair organizers face the challenges and opportunities of keeping long-standing exhibits relevant while attracting fresh talent. 

By updating categories, refreshing formats, and introducing new ideas, fairs can invite broader participation without letting go of their heritage. 

This session will empower you to reimagine your competitive exhibits in ways that honor tradition and spark innovation.

Whether you're organizing a small county fair or overseeing a large state exposition, one thing remains true, your people are your greatest asset. This session is designed for those managing competitive exhibits at fairs of all sizes, providing practical strategies for building, developing, and sustaining strong, effective teams within your departments.

 Discover proven strategies for recruiting passionate superintendents, coordinators, and volunteers; onboarding them with purpose; and fostering a team culture that supports smooth operations and a positive exhibitor experience.

 Packed with practical tips and real-world examples from fairs across the country, this session will help you create a team structure that’s built to last—flexible enough for small-scale operations and scalable for larger events.

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region. Zone 7 will be conducting an election for a new Director in 2025. 

 Ever wondered what to do with your grounds when it is not fair time??
Do you have proven events that generate income and community on your grounds?
If you answered yes to either question, then this audience participation, structured idea-sharing workshop is for you! The best ideas come from our peers, and this workshop is designed for that outcome.
Through mixed round tables, attendees will be given non-fair facility usage event scenarios to brainstorm and solve – with each table presenting their solutions to the group.
Notes will be taken and gathered afterward to be condensed into a report, which will be shared with attendees. 

The IAFE has eight geographic Zones established for board governance reasons - each Zone elects a director to serve a 3-year term (elections happen in different Zones in different years). The Zone meeting held during the Convention is considered the Annual Business Meeting of the Zone. Members of any type are welcome to attend but business items, including voting, can only be done by a designated individual representing a member fair or state/provincial association. In addition to the official business to be conducted, Zone meetings are great opportunities to network with fairs from the same region.

Fairs offer a unique opportunity to showcase livestock, celebrate agriculture, and engage with the community—but they also come with challenges related to animal safety and security. This workshop is designed for individuals who are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of animals in public exhibition settings.

Panelists will review best practices for preventing theft, managing biosecurity, handling animal welfare concerns, and responding to emergency situations.

• Understand how to analyze market trends and demongraphic data to guid artist selection.
• Discover strategies for developing ticket pricing for your market while managing risk.
• Explore how to evaluate past perfromance and ticket metrics to inform future booking decisions.
• Hear real-world exampls of successes and lessons learned from fair-based concerts. 

The IAFE Trade Show is the premier industry event showcasing all your fair needs. Explore new products and entertainment, network with thought leaders, and find the perfect partner to enhance your event. Take a well-deserved break in the IAFE Education Foundation Lounge and enjoy a complimentary beer courtesy of ConnectFun by Etix. Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the industry.

Join us for the highly anticipated grand opening of our annual trade show, the premier industry event showcasing all your fair needs. Explore new products and entertainment, network with thought leaders, and find the perfect partner to enhance your event. Take a well-deserved break in the IAFE Education Foundation Lounge and enjoy a complimentary beer courtesy of ConnectFun by Etix. Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the industry.

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind fundraising night during the IAFE Convention on Sunday, November 30, 2025. The event will take place at the Chambers Grant Salon, located in Denver, Colorado. This unique venue is nestled within the historic Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Surrounded by the original sandstone walls of the former Newton Auditorium, the space blends Colorado history with a modern atmosphere. With starry fiber optic ceilings, captivating artwork by local legend Vance Kirkland, and costumes from previous stage performances, it creates the perfect backdrop for a truly special evening.

This special event supports the IAFE Education Foundation and its mission to advance and strengthen agricultural fairs, expositions, and shows through education, research, and charitable programs. The funds raised help support key initiatives like the Institute of Fair Management, a professional development program designed to equip fair staff and volunteers with essential skills needed to lead and innovate in areas such as marketing, operations, risk management, and more.

Dress in your best with a western twist, and get ready for a night full of fun, fundraising, and a touch of Colorado’s timeless heritage. We can’t wait to see you there!

Tickets and tables are available for purchase beginning July 1, 2025. All tickets must be purchased in advance, as onsite sales will not be offered.

Pricing Options:

• VIP Table for 10 guests – $1,600

• Reserved Seating – $170 per person

• General Admission – $150 per person 

 [NOTE: This session requires an additional registration fee]
Ready to revolutionize your fair's revenue potential and marketing impact?
This high-energy masterclass isn't just about sponsorship -- it's about unleashing transformational growth that will redefine how you think about partnerships, storytelling, and value creation. Whether you're an industry newcomer or seasoned professional, if you're asking, "How can we accomplish more, in less time, easier?" this session is your answer.
Discover the tremendous opportunity that fairs possess as powerful marketing platforms in today's experience-hungry marketplace. You'll learn to craft and tell your fair's compelling story with confidence, establish undeniable value propositions, and position your event as the must-have partnership for forward-thinking brands.
This masterclass combines fundamental strategy with cutting-edge innovation, giving you the navigation tools and actionable frameworks to drive both immediate results and long-term success. We'll dive deep into creativity that captures attention, innovation that sets you apart, and how to build a supportive culture that sustains growth momentum.
You'll walk away with:

1. Revenue-generating sponsorship strategies that work immediately
2. Powerful storytelling frameworks that sell your fair's unique value
3. Creative activation ideas that sponsors can't resist
4. A roadmap for building lasting, profitable partnerships
5. The confidence to transform challenges into growth opportunities

This isn't just professional development—it's your pathway to becoming a sponsorship powerhouse in the fair industry.
Get ready for three hours of game-changing insights, practical tools, and the energy to fuel your transformational journey!

[Note: This session requires an additional registration fee.]
Protecting your event goers, staff, and volunteers has never been so important. The IAFE, working with Dr. Stephen Neel of Technical Solutions International, present the CPP workshop to help fairs understand enteric pathogens such as E. coli and to provide information on controlling traffic flow in all animal areas (not just petting zoos), creating proper signage, installing hand-wash areas, and establishing specific cleaning protocols. The risk management information and tools provided in CPP can be easily adapted to develop pandemic plans.

What CPP Offers You!
· Introduction to enteric pathogens: what they are, the impact to fairs, what’s at stake
· Understanding enteric pathogens: some microbiology!
· Analyzing your facility (everyone brings maps, diagrams of their own fair, and time is spent analyzing flow)
· Improving operational procedures: signage, handwashing, waste management, etc.
· Site evaluation exercises: each attendee works with the presenters to examine their own facilities and work on ideas/plans
· Record-keeping
· Creating the Consumer Protection Plan

Following the workshop, attendees will have the opportunity to consult one-on-one with the presenters to review their facilities' site plan. These site reviews will be conducted via Zoom or Teams. All participants must complete a site review in order to receive a certificate.
This is a for-credit course for Institute of Fair Management (IFM) enrollees and is open to all convention delegates. Additional investment of $165 per person and pre-registration required.

Join us for an unforgettable field trip to the Denver Zoo, where the worlds of fairs and zoos overlap in some wildly unexpected ways. This educational experience brings together a panel of zoo professionals who, believe it or not, face many of the same challenges fair folks do — from digital ticketing and guest operations to event logistics, public safety, and even educational displays.

You'll hear how they manage it all “on the wild side,” with insights on everything from animal welfare to crowd control, conservation to concessions. Whether you're wrangling goats or juggling concerts and corn dogs, there’s plenty of crossover to explore and ideas to take home.

Get ready to think outside the barn and take a walk on the wilder side of fair management, you might just leave inspired (and maybe with a new favorite animal fact or two).
Additional registration fee required. 

• 8:30-9:00: arrival, breakfast, coffee, and networking
• 9:00-10:00: workshop on collaborative practices with Bailey and Nicole
• 10:10-11:00: gallery workshops on innovation and creative thinking
• 11:00-11:30: free gallery exploration and departure