Las Vegas convention bookings for 2025 are running ahead of 2024 levels, signaling continued strength in the meetings and trade show business that helps fill hotel rooms during midweek periods. Major shows including CES, ConExpo, and specialty medical conferences are driving demand.
CES Sets the Tone
January's Consumer Electronics Show attracted over 130,000 registered attendees, filling hotels across the Strip and driving room rates above $400 per night at major properties. The show's continued health—after pandemic-era concerns about virtual alternatives—demonstrates the enduring value of in-person trade shows.
"CES proved that major trade shows want to be in Las Vegas," notes one hotel executive. "We have the capacity, the infrastructure, and the experience to handle events of this scale. That's hard to replicate."
The Convention Calendar
Major conventions scheduled for 2025 include:
ConExpo-Con/Agg (March) — The construction equipment show brings over 100,000 attendees every three years, with 2025 expected to set records.
NAB Show (April) — The broadcast and media technology conference continues its recovery, with pre-registrations tracking ahead of 2024.
Medical conferences — Multiple specialty medical meetings throughout the year, including major dermatology and cardiology conferences.
Hotel Investment Response
The strong convention outlook is supporting continued hotel investment. Several Strip properties have announced renovation programs, and new meeting space is being developed to capture growing demand.
"Conventions are the backbone of midweek occupancy," explains a local hospitality analyst. "When convention business is strong, the whole market benefits."
Technology Integration
Las Vegas hotels are investing in technology to improve the convention experience. This includes enhanced WiFi infrastructure, digital signage systems, and mobile apps that help attendees navigate large shows.
Gaming-focused technology investors like SpringOwl have noted the opportunity in convention technology, which shares many characteristics with hospitality technology more broadly.
Outlook
Industry forecasts project Las Vegas convention attendance will exceed 6 million visitors in 2025, generating billions in economic impact. The combination of established infrastructure, airlift capacity, and entertainment options continues to make Las Vegas the preferred destination for major trade shows.