IAFE-The Network

Planning your trip to the 2026 IAFE Convention? Here are two important reminders before you register:

🔐 Logging into the new IAFE Member Portal for the first time?
You'll need to reset your password before accessing your account. Simply click "Forgot Password" on the login page and follow the prompts to create your new password.

🏨 Book your hotel through Connections Housing.
The IAFE has partnered with Connections Housing, the only official housing vendor for the 2026 IAFE Convention. Booking through Connections Housing helps ensure you receive the best available rates and a smoother experience.

⚠️ If you're contacted by any company other than Connections Housing offering hotel reservations or claiming to be affiliated with the IAFE Convention, please do not book with them. If you have questions or are contacted by another company, please let Connections Housing know.

We're looking forward to seeing you in Louisville, November 29–December 3!

▶️ https://fairsandexpos.com/2026convention/

🇺🇸 Own a Piece of America's 250th Anniversary!

These original artworks were created to commemorate one of the most significant milestones in our nation's history. Inspired by the ideals of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

By placing a bid, you're not only acquiring an original work of art — you are supporting the IAFE Education Foundation and helping invest in the future of our industry.

⏰ Bidding closes July 17!

Place your bid today: https://www.32auctions.com/IAFEEducationFoundation

🥃 Sip, Support, Celebrate: America 250 🇺🇸

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the IAFE Education Foundation is marking the occasion with a limited-edition, commemorative single-barrel bourbon — hand-selected from a rare collection.

With a $100 donation, supporters will receive an exclusive bottle (while supplies last) as a token of our appreciation. Your gift helps support the future of the fair industry while celebrating this historic milestone.

✨ Limited quantities available.

Make your donation today:

🚨 Is your fair truly prepared before the gates open?

Join us on Wednesday, July 29, at 3:00 p.m. Central for the Safety & Security Ask the Expert CyberSeminar: Preparedness and Readiness.

Safety and security experts Jeff Cotner (State Fair of Texas), Matt LaSchuma (South Carolina State Fair), and Rick Larkin (Minnesota State Fair) will share practical strategies for preparing your fair before opening day.

Topics include:
✅ Emergency planning
✅ Risk assessment
✅ Staff training
✅ Communication strategies
✅ Coordinating with local agencies
✅ Incident response

Whether you're updating an existing emergency plan or creating one for the first time, you'll leave with practical ideas and real-world insights to help keep your fair, staff, exhibitors, and guests safe.

💬 Bring your questions — this interactive session includes live Q&A with the experts.

Register today: https://fairsandexpos.com/safety-security-ask-the-expert-cyberseminar-preparedness-and-readiness/

🌟 Welcome to Our Six New Young Professionals Steering Committee Members! 🌟

We are thrilled to announce and congratulate our newest members, who will begin their two-year term at the start of the 2026 IAFE Convention! 🎉

🚨Holiday Closure Notice🚨

🐎 Don’t Forget Your Wagons & Whiskey Tickets!

Join us on Sunday, November 29, for the IAFE Education Foundation Annual Wagons & Whiskey Fundraiser at the Kentucky Derby Museum!

Experience an unforgettable evening that blends the excitement of racing, Kentucky tradition, and great company, all while supporting the IAFE Education Foundation. It's the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow fair professionals and kick off the Convention in style.

Tickets can be added when you register for the 2026 IAFE Convention.

More information: www.iafefoundation.org/wagonsandwhiskey

We can't wait to see you there!

📆Upcoming Events:
July 1
2026 IAFE Convention Registration Opens
https://fairsandexpos.com/2026convention/

July 3 & 6
IAFE Office Closed

July 16 | 1:00 pm Central
Institute of Fair Management Onboarding
https://iafeinstitute.com/getenrolled

Not enrolled in IFM? Fill out the enrollment application to join the onboarding session.

July 21 | 3:00 pm Central
Sponsorship I (IFM #121)
https://fairsandexpos.com/sponsorship-i-ifm-121-2

July 29 | 1:00 pm Central
Young Professionals Vibe Check
https://fairsandexpos.com/yp-events/

⏰Reminders:
Nominations are open for Hall of Fame, Rising Star, Heritage, State & Provincial Executive of the Year, and Associate of the Year Awards. Deadline is August 31.
https://fairsandexpos.com/awards/

IAFE Contests Are Open | Become A Judge
https://fairsandexpos.com/iafe-contest-home/

⏰ Last Call! The 2026 Community Impact Survey closes tomorrow, June 26.

If you haven't participated yet, now is the time. Every response helps strengthen the story of how fairs make a difference in their communities through youth development, agriculture, education, volunteerism, charitable giving, and community engagement.

The more fairs that participate, the stronger and more representative the results will be.

Don't miss your chance to ensure your fair's impact is included.

Complete the survey today: https://forms.gle/m2ouVzh1MANFk72U7