Summer is usually a slow down period for businesses. People are vacationing, taking time off work, and spending more time outdoors. Unless your business serves the summer lull, you probably use this time to catch up on things before the fall starts. While it’s great to get organized, don’t forget to keep your business up to date on the latest trends and technologies. The best way to do this – attend a trade show.

Below are the best trade shows for your small business to attend this summer. Hopefully one or two are nearby, but if not, turn an upcoming conference into a small getaway!

June 2018 Trade Shows

InfoComm, June 6-8

Las Vegas Convention Center

Las Vegas, NV

InfoComm is the biggest event for the professional audio and visual industry. The event brings in over 44,000 people from hundreds of countries. By attending, you can check out thousands of exhibitors that are showcasing the latest developments in education, technology, networking, and more.

E3 Expo, June 6-8

Los Angeles Convention Center

Los Angeles, CA

The Electronic Entertainment Expo is always a fun one to attend. It features the latest advancements in video games and computer software presented by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). While not directly tied to small business, it’s worthwhile to see the software developments being made. Plus, you might need to refresh your break room with new video games!

July 2018 Trade Shows

Semicon West, July 10-12

Moscone Convention Center

San Francisco, CA

Semicon West has a little bit of everything. It mostly attracts buyers and engineers, but all businesses can learn something from the event. This year, get a glimpse of the technology that’s coming next such as hybrid electronics, big data, IoT, smart manufacturing, smart transportation, and other cognitive technologies.

IFT Food Expo, July 15-18

McCormick Place

Chicago, IL

If your small business has anything to do with food products, this is one event you don’t want to miss. It features the industry’s largest collection of ingredients, equipment, and processing and packaging supplies in one convenient location. Discover global food trends and talk face to face with manufacturing companies.

August 2018 Trade Shows

Fire-Rescue International, August 8-10

Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center

Dallas, TX

The FRI Conference encourages small local businesses and local residents to support their first responders. This award-winning event is one of the fastest-growing shows in attendance. Learn how first responders report to all types of disasters and how to create a disaster plan of your own.

International Woodworking Fair, August 22-25

Georgia World Congress

Atlanta, GA

The International Woodworking Fair is one of the top woodworking events in the world. It’s a great opportunity to learn about furniture manufacturing, architectural woodwork, custom woodworking, and more. Suppliers and retailers of plastic and other materials are also present. It’s a great time to learn about the best technologies and materials to support your own products.

By making an appearance at a few events this summer, you can keep your business moving in the right direction!