Greater Fort Lauderdale gears up to host the prestigious IPW 2026, set to take place from May 18th to 22nd. Under the theme #EveryoneUnderTheSun, this event promises to showcase the city's diverse cultural tapestry, golden beaches, and renowned hospitality to over 5,000 guests from 60 countries. Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, sheds light on the strategic importance and economic impact of hosting IPW 2026.

How do you believe the choice of Greater Fort Lauderdale as the host city for IPW 2026 will contribute to highlighting the region's economic significance on the global tourism stage, and what specific aspects will be emphasized during the event to showcase this importance?

Greater Fort Lauderdale being selected as the host city for IPW 2026 is a strategic move to spotlight our economic significance in global tourism. We boast many diverse offerings including 24 miles of sandy beaches, cultural attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, our vibrant nightlife, dining experiences and the scenic Everglades. We are known for our water-centric activities, such as cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway on the Water Taxi and exploring why we’re known as the Venice of America. IPW will be another great opportunity to showcase our commitment to state-of-the-art infrastructure with the expansion of the Broward County Convention Center, reinforcing Greater Fort Lauderdale’s position as a must-visit destination.

The U.S. Travel Association has underscored the significant contribution of IPW as an economic catalyst. What are the specific expectations and goals you have for the economic impact of Greater Fort Lauderdale hosting this event in terms of revenue generation and promoting inbound tourism?

Visit Lauderdale is ecstatic to have secured this signature event for the very first time. For four days, we will be able to showcase Greater Fort Lauderdale to influential travel industry professionals from more than 70 countries worldwide. IPW will have a major economic impact on Greater Fort Lauderdale’s economy, more than 20,000 room nights and $14.2 million is projected to be spent by 6,000+ delegates.

Dividends from Visit Lauderdale hosting the 2026 IPW Conference will be substantial and have a lasting and sustained impact. Visitor spending is projected to be approximately $1.1 billion, with almost 3,500 local jobs created over three years.

Our goal is to showcase the destination’s unique offerings from the seagrass to the sawgrass and everything in between, enticing visitors to explore the destination beyond the event. We aim to create a lasting impact, driving sustained inbound tourism and contributing significantly to our local economy.  

The slogan "#EveryoneUnderTheSun" suggests the diversity of experiences offered by Greater Fort Lauderdale. How do you plan to highlight and promote the cultural diversity and unique experiences of the region during IPW 2026 to attract visitors from different parts of the world?

We’re excited to showcase the rich cultural tapestry by offering curated events and diverse culinary experiences. We aim to highlight the unique flavors, traditions and attractions that make the destination a global melting pot. With people from more than 170 countries speaking 147 languages calling Greater Fort Lauderdale home, cultural diversity is in the fabric of the destination as evidenced  by our residents. The Everyone Under the Sun brand campaign emphasizes that our destination is a welcoming and diverse haven, creating an inclusive atmosphere that resonates with visitors from around the world. We are inviting them to explore and embrace the multitude of experiences that define Greater Fort Lauderdale.

With over 5,000 international guests and representation from 60 countries, IPW is a unique opportunity to strengthen the position of the United States as a global tourist destination. What are the key strategies that Greater Fort Lauderdale will implement to capture global attention during the event, and how will these strategies translate into an increase in international visitors to the region?

The 2026 IPW event will primarily be staged at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. However, Visit Lauderdale is planning excursions and various events throughout the region which bring the tropical destination to life and highlight what makes us  so special, its people and the diversity of cultures. With more than 170 countries represented in Greater Fort Lauderdale, the multicultural experience will certainly be a strategy Visit Lauderdale plans to highlight.  

As one of the most progressive and welcoming destinations in the United States, Greater Fort Lauderdale champions diversity and inclusion every day, in every way. Our goal is to make everyone feel seen, supported, comfortable, and safe. Simply put, Greater Fort Lauderdale is meant for everyone under the sun. Strategies will underscore how Visit Lauderdale works to remove barriers to provide a quality experience for all, including people with visible and invisible disabilities. An example is how we have embraced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program  at the Broward County Convention Center and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Geographically, our region is packed with tons of attractions from the shore to the suburbs. Whether it’s an airboat ride through the scenic Florida Everglades or snorkeling/sunbathing along 24 miles of beautiful beaches, guests will be tempted to eat and drink their way around world-class bars and restaurants. Often referred to as the “Venice of America” guests will be encouraged to cruise the 300 miles of inland waterways by boat, Water Taxi, paddleboard, or gondola. 

Another tactic will be to feature Visit Lauderdale’s award-winning marketing campaign, “Everyone Under the Sun,” which is evolving to amplify the destination’s strong emphasis on inclusion, diversity, and personal freedom. We’ve strengthened the campaign’s focus and now we boldly invite the world to “Come Be You” in Greater Fort Lauderdale.