Signature Events

Networking & Social Functions

Nashville City Tour Options

Hosted by Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Get to know the city where music, culture, and Southern hospitality take center stage. Nashville offers visitors a dynamic blend of legendary music venues, world-class attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and a culinary scene that continues to earn national acclaim. From iconic landmarks and live music to local flavors and hidden gems, every corner of Music City tells a story. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, discovering emerging districts, or experiencing the city’s unmistakable energy, Nashville invites you to find your own rhythm.

Click here to view all Nashville City tours.

Monday Insights Sessions

Southern Insights and Opportunities on the Global Stage

Presented by Esra Calvert Consulting
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 9:00 am – 9:45 am
Location: Room 201, Level 2 – Music City Center

Gain valuable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping international travel to the American South. This session will explore evolving global traveler behavior, market dynamics, and strategies for destinations and industry partners seeking to strengthen their international presence and maximize growth opportunities in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Around the Global Network in 90 Minutes

Presented by the Global Network Program
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 9:50 am – 11:20 am
Location: Room 201, Level 2 – Music City Center

Take a fast-paced journey around the world as Travel South USA’s international representatives share market intelligence, consumer trends, and emerging opportunities from key global markets. Attendees will gain practical insights into what is driving travel demand, how visitor expectations are evolving, and where future growth opportunities exist across the international landscape.

Building Competitive Advantage in a Brutal Market

Presented by Adam Schwab, Luxury Escapes
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Location: Room 201, Level 2 – Music City Center

Competition for travelers has never been greater. Join Adam Schwab, Co-Founder and CEO of Luxury Escapes, for an engaging discussion on how destinations and tourism businesses can stand out in a crowded marketplace. Learn how innovation, customer experience, technology, and strategic marketing can create meaningful competitive advantages and drive long-term success.

Champion Destinations Global Leadership Lunch

Champion City CEOs Only
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Location: Room 204, Level 2 – Music City Center

Hosted by Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and featuring Guest Speaker, Adam Schwab, President & CEO, Luxury Escapes, the Champion Destinations Leadership Forum brings together CEOs and executive leaders alongside State Tourism Officer for an exclusive exchange of ideas on the future of international tourism in the American South.

This invitation-only luncheon provides a unique opportunity for senior leaders to discuss emerging global travel trends, destination competitiveness, international market opportunities, public policy, air service, and collaborative strategies that strengthen the South’s position in the global marketplace.

Designed to foster candid conversation and meaningful collaboration, the Leadership Forum creates a venue where state and city tourism leaders can share perspectives, build stronger partnerships, and identify opportunities to grow international visitation, visitor spending, and the economic impact of tourism across the region.

Opening Night Celebration

Hosted by Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Join us at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, one of Nashville’s most celebrated whiskey makers. Enjoy a true taste of Tennessee with premium whiskey, live entertainment from The Magi, live band karaoke, and interactive photo moments throughout the evening. Blending three of Nashville’s signature experiences – exceptional music, unforgettable flavors, and world-class whiskey – the opening reception is the perfect place to unwind, reconnect, and start International Showcase on a high note.

Taste of Nashville

Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Throughout Nashville

Nashville’s culinary scene is as diverse and dynamic as its music. From iconic hot chicken and Southern comfort food to award-winning restaurants, craft cocktails, and innovative chef-driven concepts, Music City offers something for every palate. Spend the evening exploring Nashville at your own pace, discovering the neighborhoods, flavors, and experiences that have helped make the city one of America’s most exciting destinations. Come hungry and experience why Nashville continues to draw visitors from around the globe.

Y’all Ball

Final Night Party

Hosted by Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
Wednesday, December 2, 2026 | 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Category 10

Signature Meal Functions

Location: Karl Dean Ballroom, Level 4
Tuesday, December 1 – Wednesday, December 2, 2026
Recommended Dress: Business Casual Attire

Join us for a Mississippi Morning
International Breakfast & Opening Ceremonies

Hosted by Visit Mississippi
Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 9:00 am – 10:15 am
Location: Karl Dean Ballroom, Level 4

Start your day by grabbing a front-row seat as Charlie Worsham and his band host a morning masterclass on Mississippi music. Worsham, a Grenada, Mississippi, native and 2024 CMA Musician of the Year among other prestigious awards, has shared stages and studios with everyone from Eric Church and Luke Combs to Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, and Lainey Wilson. When he’s not playing, he’s talking — as host of “Mississippi on the Map,” a Visit Mississippi podcast that digs into how the state’s people, places, and sounds seeded American music, with guests like Marty Stuart, Mac McAnally, and Chris Stapleton along for the ride. He arrives fresh off the August 2026 release of his first independent album, “Once Upon a Second Time Around,” with reflections on home, family, and where he comes from. Come enjoy breakfast and a backstage pass to Mississippi itself.

Rhythms of the South Luncheon

Hosted by Rhythms of the South: Atlanta, Nashville & New Orleans
Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 1:45 pm
Location: Karl Dean Ballroom, Level 4

Come Find Your Virginia Breakfast

Hosted by Virginia Tourism
Wednesday, December 2, 2026 | 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Location: Karl Dean Ballroom, Level 4

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia is for lovers of history, music, food, nature, and so much more. The Virginia Tourism Corporation is pleased to sponsor this year’s breakfast event, and we look forward to welcoming you to Virginia for the 2027 International Showcase in Norfolk.  Unless you want to visit sooner! ❤️

The Flavor of Alabama Luncheon

Hosted by Sweet Home Alabama
Wednesday, December 2, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 1:45 pm
Location: Karl Dean Ballroom, Level 4