A first international build from a major brand, an event merger following an acquisition and Puerto Rico expands the number of hosted events in the year to come. This was day three at IMEX America 2026, and there’s even more to see below.
Notable and New
Now that the FIFA footballers have packed up, a host of improved properties and infrastructure is available for meetings of all types in Seattle. That included streamlined security wait times, increased international routes Paris, London, Rome, Reykjavik and Athens and easy light rail access, including the first passenger rail over a floating bridge from Bellevue to Redmond.
Los Cabos: Expanding Beyond the Beach
Rodrigo Esponda highlighted new hotels, event venues and experiences that showcase Los Cabos beyond its beaches. Updates included Park Hyatt Los Cabos and upcoming Grand Hyatt and St. Regis properties, as well as options for farm-to-table dining and outdoor group activities.
Esponda identified sustainability, local food and community connections as priorities for planners. Groups can meet artisans, explore regional cuisine and visit ranches in nearby rural communities. Wellness also remains a focus, with demand for local practitioners and ingredients. A dedicated business events concierge helps planners explore hotels and develop destination programs.
Bermuda: Renewed Inventory and Local Connections
Bermuda representatives highlighted the anticipated return of Fairmont Southampton, with a phased hotel reopening expected in early 2027 following extensive renovations. Its reimagined beach club has already opened, adding space for events.
Beyond hotel updates, the conversation focused on Bermuda’s year-round appeal, accessibility from the East Coast and opportunities to connect groups with local culture. Experiences range from cave spa treatments at Grotto Bay to island cuisine and community partnerships.
Representatives also emphasized sustainability, including electric rental vehicles, and helping planners incorporate local vendors and service activities that reflect their organizations’ goals.
IAEE: Connecting the Exhibition Industry
Marsha Flanagan, president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events, outlined efforts to bring show organizers and exhibitors closer together following IAEE’s acquisition of Exhibitor Group. Plans call for EXHIBITORLIVE and Expo! Expo! to merge into one event in Las Vegas in 2028, coinciding with IAEE’s 100th anniversary.
Flanagan also discussed the exhibition industry’s continued recovery, with attendance remaining a challenge and travel costs creating barriers to participation. Priorities include new research on attendee acquisition and workforce development resources that introduce students to exhibition industry careers.
Ottawa Increases International Interest
Over the course of 15 years, Ottawa has invested in its long-term relationships and international research. Since the city’s Rogers Centre opened its doors 15 years ago, international association inquiries have increased by 50%.
The International Convention Attraction Fund, managed by Destination Canada, are available to Ottawa Tourism and has allowed the organization to secure event for companies such as the International Institute of Union Clerks. The institute brings approximately 1,000 attendees and $2.8 million in economic impact for the city. It has more than double its bidding ability and has an ROI of roughly 20 to one.
How Sports Experiences Create into Trust
Lance Fensterman, CEO of Fanatics Events, and Anne Marie Rowe, president of BaAM Productions, working with sports leagues, international federations and entertainment brands.
Fanatics Events is the creator of Fanatics Fest, a sports fan festival. “The power of community, the power of bringing people together and giving them experiences and emotional moments tend to build a really strong bridge to a brand,” Fensterman said. “Live experiences change people’s feelings about brands, it changes people’s feelings about others. It changes people’s feelings about moments in time. You can really reach people.”
Events Coming to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has had a record-breaking year, booking 222, 211 room nights and $263.4 million in economic impact. Upcoming events on the island including Miss Universe 2026 in November, Puerto Rico Bowl 2026 in December, “LE LO LAI” by Cirque du Soleil in February 2027 and 2027 FICP Annual Conference Nov. 7–10, 2027.
Discover Puerto Rico is offering an up to $20 rebate per room night (based on seasonal demand and total room night tiers) when you book through Discover Puerto Rico. Events must be contracted and countersigned by Dec. 18, 2026. Contact [email protected].
