IAFE-The Network

Upcoming Events:
May 27 | 1:00 pm Central
YP Vibe Check
https://fairsandexpos.com/yp-events/

June 3 | 2:00 pm Central
YP Master Class
https://fairsandexpos.com/yp-events/

June 4 | 3:00 pm Central
Mastering IAFE Contests: Tips, Strategies & Navigating the New Contest Platform
https://fairsandexpos.com/cyberseminars/

Reminders:
● Participate in the Community Impact Survey
https://forms.gle/Q8Bfr1GAf9XoKYW67
● IAFE Contests Are Open | Become A Judge
https://fairsandexpos.com/iafe-contest-home/

📣 Holiday Closure Notice 📣

📆 Mark Your Calendars! Hotel reservations for the 2026 IAFE Convention open May 26!

📣 We Need Your Voice

If you haven’t completed the survey yet, please take a moment to do so today. Your feedback helps us share how fairs and expositions positively impact communities around the world.

Thank you for helping us tell the story of our industry!

👉 Take the survey: https://forms.gle/1wzSFii8uxcmJmXFA

🇺🇸 US Fairs Celebrate America 250 with the Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Exhibition 🎨

This special exhibition features artwork from five artists recognized for their award-winning entries at local fairs, inspired by the themes of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

Fairs can download and print the artwork and family activities to create a meaningful community display for America 250. Participation costs are limited to printing and coloring materials.

Complete the form on our webpage to access the artwork, signage, and activities! https://fairsandexpos.com/art-initiative/

This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about how National Endowment for the Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.

Upcoming Events:
May 13-16
Florida Federation of Fairs Convention & Zone 2 Meeting
https://fairsandexpos.com/zone-2/

Reminders:
● Young Professionals Steering Committee Applications Due May 1
https://fairsandexpos.com/young-professionals/

● Certified Volunteer Fair Manager (CVFM) Applications Due May 1
https://fairsandexpos.com/cfe-and-cvfm-designation/

● Participate in the Community Impact Survey
https://forms.gle/Q8Bfr1GAf9XoKYW67

● Convention Scholarship & Grant Applications Due May 1
https://fairsandexpos.com/convention-scholarships-grants/

Today marks the final day of the IAFE Executive Summit for State & Provincial Associations, and what an incredible event it has been!

From meaningful conversations to inspiring ideas, this Summit has brought together leaders from state and provincial fair associations to collaborate, share best practices, and strengthen the future of fair associations.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, OABA and Johnson Consulting, for making this event possible — we truly appreciate your support in helping us create such a valuable and impactful experience.

What an incredible Management Conference!

From inspiring workshops to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, this year’s event was truly something special. It’s always inspiring to see fair executives and managers come together to learn, connect, and grow.

A huge thank you to our outstanding Management Conference co-chairs, Chris Derby, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Anna Whelchel, Indiana State Fair, for your leadership and vision, and to our generous sponsors for helping make it all possible. Your support is what brings an event like this to life.

We’re already looking forward to next year!

Behind the scenes at Sporting Park ⚽

Management Conference attendees got an exclusive tour of Sporting Park, home of Sporting Kansas City and a FIFA World Cup training facility. A great look at how top-tier sports facilities operate and create unforgettable fan experiences.