With Chicago now in the books, Fort Lauderdale is now on the clock for next year’s IPW, the U.S. Travel Association’s signature inbound travel trade show, to be held at Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center from May 17-21. And as the future host, Visit Lauderdale shared a snapshot at last week’s IPW in the Windy City of what guests can expect from the South Florida destination in 2026.
“Bringing Greater Fort Lauderdale’s story to a global audience at IPW was a significant moment for our destination,” said Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “As we look ahead to hosting in 2026, we’re excited to showcase the vibrant blend of cultures, communities, and experiences that define who we are, a place that proudly welcomes everyone under the sun.”
Attendees visiting Visit Lauderdale’s activation area at IPW were greeted by brand ambassadors dressed as lifeguards, followed by entertaining performances from local Salsa dancers, Caribbean carnival dancers and stilt walkers, highlighting the lively and diverse cultural influences experienced throughout the destination.
In celebration of its theme for this year, “Picture Perfect Paradise,” the DMO invited attendees to take Polaroid snapshots within the activation area and post them on a picture board, creating a communal display. Visitors also had the opportunity to taste the vibrant flavors of Greater Fort Lauderdale, with margaritas, mocktails, empanadas, Caribbean risotto cakes, shrimp ceviche shooters and more throughout each day.
During its future host city press conference, Stacy Ritter highlighted what sets Greater Fort Lauderdale apart, including its dynamic culinary scene marked by recent 2025 MICHELIN Guide Florida honours, its strong commitment to diversity, accessibility, and inclusivity, and its thriving water culture that connects the entire destination.
IPW 2026 is expected to bring unprecedented visibility to Greater Fort Lauderdale and deliver a powerful economic boost to the local tourism industry. The event is projected to generate more than 20,000 hotel room nights and over $14 million in food and beverage spending. Over the next three years, the event is expected to generate US$1.5 billion in federal tax revenue and $1.8 billion in state and local tax revenue. This sustained visitor spending will support more than 63,000 jobs annually across Greater Fort Lauderdale’s travel and tourism sector.
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