• website hero

ICONIC: Redefining Association Leadership in 2026

December 2–3, 2026| McCormick Place, Chicago| Earn up to 7.5 CAE credits

Save $100 by registering for 2026 Holiday Showcase and 2027 Women’s Executive Forum (March 12, 2027) together, right here on this site. Or become a member today and receive discounted registration rates for Holiday Showcase and other Association Forum programs — see everything membership includes.
 

Register Now

Step into a year where bold ideas, timeless strategies, and visionary leaders shape the future of associations.

ICONIC celebrates the lasting impact of associations and the people who lead them. This year is about what matters most: innovation, inclusivity, and influence.

92%Overall attendee satisfaction
545Organizations represented
81%Of attendees are decision-makers
50Net Promoter Score — Excellent range

Based on recent Holiday Showcase attendee data, per the 2026 Exhibitor Prospectus.

The Theme

What Does ICONIC Look Like?

01

Timeless Leadership

Explore the decisions, leadership practices and organizational strategies that help associations navigate change, build resilience and prepare for the future.

02

Tech That Transforms

Discover how AI, automation, data and emerging technologies are reshaping association operations, team structures and member experiences.

03

Education Without Limits

Learn how new approaches to knowledge sharing, professional development and engaement that help members learn, connect, and contribute in meaningful ways.

04

Revenue Reinvented

Explore fresh ideas for sponsorships, partnerships, pricing and value creation that strengthen financial sustainability and support long-term growth.

05

Membership Reimagined

Examine innovative strategies for volunteer engagement, community building, personalization and member experiences that deepen connection and participation.

This is your moment to be ICONIC. Lead boldly. Think differently. Leave a mark that lasts.

Exhibitors

Why Exhibit?

Exhibitor registration is open now! Booths are selling fast and have sold out the past several years. Reserve your space today to make sure your organization is included on the Exhibit Hall floor.

Here’s why:

Meet Decision Makers

Engage with hundreds of association professionals looking for venues, products, and services to support their missions.

Showcase Your Value

Highlight how your solutions help associations deliver member value, create exceptional events, and drive impact.

Next Level Exposure

Gain visibility before, during, and after the event with a highly engaged audience of decision makers.

Build Authentic Relationships

This is more than a trade show. It’s a trusted community gathering where connections become long-term partnerships.

The Event

What Is Holiday Showcase?

Holiday Showcase is Association Forum’s annual two-day event for association professionals and the partners who support them. Expect a day and a half of education, a fun-filled partner exhibit hall, and time with people who understand your work.

Come to learn new strategies and find solutions for 2027. Stay to celebrate the year with your professional community.

Holiday Showcase attendees networking and learning together
Attendees

Why Attend?

Earn CAE Credit

Earn up to 7.5 CEUs across both days, including 1 ethics credit. You can earn up to 1.5 additional CEUs at the One Idea Can Change the World® stage in the exhibit hall. Association Forum is a CAE Approved Provider, so your credits count toward your CAE application or renewal.

Celebrate and Recharge

Close out the year with your community. Reflect, recharge, and leave ready for what’s next.

Unparalleled Networking

Connect with peers, partners, and leaders who understand your work and your world. Build relationships that move your career forward.

Level Up Your Learning

Gain fresh ideas and actionable strategies from sessions designed for association professionals at every level.

Meet Partners Who Can Help

Explore the exhibit hall and find solutions for your 2027 plans.

Holiday Showcase is made possible by our partners — the organizations whose support powers everything from the exhibit hall to the stages you’ll learn on.

Meet Our Partners →