Informal Gatherings

One of the best parts of any professional convention is the chance to spend some dedicated time with friends and peers - reconnecting, 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 Board and Staff look forward to the IFEA Convention each year and consider the IFEA as part of the team that helps ensure our success.”
Diana Mayhew, CFEE

President, National Cherry Blossom Festival

Washington, DC

Connections Café

Open Every Day

“Connections Café,” sponsored by Eventeny, is the center of IFEA daytime gatherings and conversations. Located near 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

Saturday, September 28, 2024 - Open at 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 29, 2024 - 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Monday, September 30, 2034 - 10:30 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

The DFEST® Hospitality Suite, co-sponsored by long-time IFEA supporter DFEST®, is as much a part of the IFEA Convention as our breakout sessions, and we look forward to extending a warm Pittsburgh welcome to everyone! Located in the Governor’s Suite (2340), the hospitality suite will be open on Saturday night, September 28th (beginning at 6:00 p.m.) to meet up with old friends and new, before dinner; Sunday night, September 29th (beginning at 9:00 p.m.) and Monday night, September 30th (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.

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; 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.

A Free Evening of Dining and Networking In Pittsburgh

Sunday evening, September 29th, 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 Pittsburgh, many located within easy walking distance of the hotel, and others a short Uber or cab ride away. The hotel staff, local friends, and Visit Pittsburgh staff (who will be on-site in the IFEA Convention Registration area) can help with suggestions and directions. Click Here to learn more about Pittsburgh.

Sponsor of the Annual IFEA Convention & Expo