The Big Show Roundup
Where to learn, connect and find the latest products in 2026
With major trade shows happening coast to coast, the early months of 2026 are packed with opportunities for pool pros to sharpen their skills and expand their networks. Whether you’re looking for certification courses, new product demos, hands-on technical sessions or simply a chance to reconnect with colleagues, these events deliver something for everyone. Consider this your roadmap to the season’s biggest industry gatherings.
The Pool & Spa Show
Jan. 27-29
Atlantic City Convention Center
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Explore the latest trends, products and services at The Pool & Spa Show. The Pool & Spa Show is back with fresh insights, innovations and networking opportunities. Here’s PoolPro’s guide to the top stops.
Expo Hall
Tuesday, Jan. 27: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 28: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 29: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Education Conference
Sunday, Jan. 25: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 26: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 27: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 28: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 29: 8:30-10 a.m.
Events
The Welcome Party
Monday, Jan. 26 | 7-10 p.m.
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City
Kick off the 2026 Pool & Spa Show with a night of fun, music and celebration at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City. The Welcome Party is your chance to connect with friends, meet industry pros and start your show experience with excitement.
Enjoy a high-energy atmosphere with live entertainment, interactive games, great food and your favorite drinks — all in an expanded space designed to keep the good vibes going all night.
Your ticket includes:
- Three hours of exclusive access to the party
- Live music and entertainment
- Arcade-style games and lounge areas
- Food and beverages
This is the hottest ticket in Atlantic City — and it sells out every year. Be sure to add it during registration. This event is for attendees 21 and over. Valid photo ID required for entry.
Lead the Ask: Negotiation Training Grounded in Professional Brand, Presence and Strategy
Monday, Jan. 26 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
This high-impact workshop combines negotiation training with personal brand and leadership archetype work. Why? Because how you show up in a negotiation starts with who you are. You negotiate with more influence, confidence and consistency when you’re clear on your strengths, presence and values. “Lead the Ask” equips women with the practical tools and mindset shifts to navigate any negotiation — from salaries to contracts, from conflict to collaboration — all while staying grounded in authenticity and leadership presence. The session includes a personal brand assessment for each attendee with an individual report and details.
WAVE: PHTA Young Professionals Networking Event
Monday, Jan. 26 | 5-6 p.m.
Join fellow young pool and hot tub professionals for an energizing networking event. Connect with peers, exchange stories and gain valuable insights from industry leaders in an open, collaborative setting. This event is free to attend, but advance registration is required.
Education for everyone
At the 2026 Pool & Spa Show, attendees can choose from nearly 150 sessions across multiple tracks tailored to pool and hot tub professionals.
Educational opportunities include technical training, business classes, certification courses and specialty sessions — all designed to strengthen core skills and spark fresh thinking.
For those seeking deeper immersion, multiday courses and certification tracks — including PHTA, GENESIS and Watershape University offerings — run alongside shorter, focused workshops and panel talks.
The National Plasterers Council Conference
Feb. 18-20
Westin Anaheim Resort
Anaheim, California
Join the NPC Annual Conference for an essential gathering of pool-interior professionals. Choose from more than 15 hands-on education sessions — from surface prep and waterproofing to pigment systems and logistics — and a dedicated Spanish-language track with six sessions. Networking takes center stage with opening and exhibitor receptions, conversation stations and an expo featuring nearly 40 supplier exhibits. The event also features the NPC Annual Auction, with proceeds supporting research, education and the Rey Perales Memorial Scholarship.
Conference Fees
Early bird: On or before Jan. 19
NPC members: $475
Nonmembers: $950
Regular: After Jan. 19
NPC members: $575
Nonmembers: $1,050
Spouse/guest $250
Spouse package includes opening reception, lunches, breakfasts and exhibitor’s reception only. Package does not include admission to educational programs. Optional items must be purchased separately.
Events
Golf Outing
February 18
Anaheim Hill Golf Club
7:45 a.m. departure from hotel for 9 a.m. tee time
Cost: $180 per person
Anaheim Hills Golf Course is a premier 18-hole, par-71 gem nestled in the heart of Anaheim, California, just minutes from Disneyland. Known for its tree-lined fairways and rolling native landscapes, this course offers a unique blend of challenge and relaxation for golfers of all skill levels. Advanced registration is required.
Tap Into Brewheim Tasting and Lunch
February 18
Brewheim
10:30 a.m. departure from hotel; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. event
Cost: $90 per person
“Heim” means home and that is exactly what you will feel when you step into Brewheim, a brewery born from a family of beermakers who are extremely passionate about creating the most delicious craft. Grab your friends and enjoy a private tasting and lunch at the Brewheim’s brewery and taproom. Advanced registration is required.
NPC Opening Reception
Wednesday, Feb. 18
6:30-9:30 p.m.
Included with conference registration
Connect and meet up with colleagues and friends at the opening reception. Join us for an evening of food, drink and networking.
Women of the NPC Meeting
Wednesday, Feb. 18
5-5:30 p.m.
New Member Reception
Wednesday, Feb. 18
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Western Pool & Spa Show
Feb. 12-14
Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center
Long Beach, California
The Western Pool & Spa Show returns with a full seminar schedule, offering classes for every skill level — from water chemistry and equipment repair to electronic controls, heaters, business fundamentals, QuickBooks and money management strategies. Builders will find dedicated education as well, and all three days feature classes presented in Spanish. The trade-only exhibit floor remains free to attend and showcases an expansive lineup of vendors, along with hourly door prizes that culminate in a $20,000 cash giveaway on the final day. Attendees can also take part in the show’s expanded on-floor putting contest, adding a fun, competitive twist to the event.
Exhibit hours
Thursday, Feb. 12: 1-5 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 13: 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14: 1-5 p.m.
Registration rates
Exhibit floor: Free, but registration required
Seminars: $115 for preregistration; $125 on-site
Southwest Pool & Spa Show
Feb. 15-19
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
San Antonio, Texas
The Southwest Pool & Spa Show features a robust exhibit hall showcasing in-ground and above-ground pool systems, hot tubs, retail and service products, plus a broad slate of educational sessions and certification programs designed for every level of the industry — from owners to technicians. Attendees will also enjoy networking receptions, the awards gala and access to the trade floor. Whether you’re looking to connect with 200-plus exhibitors, earn certifications or discover the latest innovations, the show is a must-attend for pool, spa and outdoor living professionals.
Exhibit hours
Tuesday, Feb. 17: 5-7 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 18: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 19: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration rates
Member (PHTA, TPSC, IPSSA or GENESIS): Free
Nonmember: $45
Registration includes access to the show floor, all food functions, free industry sessions, the awards gala and the welcome party.
