TORONTO — What’s new with Greater Fort Lauderdale in 2026? Plenty!

According to the team at Visit Lauderdale, this is an exciting time for the destination as they make a significant move this year by hosting IPW 2026. This and more was the message this week as the team braved the Canadian winter with stops in both Toronto and Montreal.

“We came here to invite you to our first-ever IPW 2026 personally,” says Tracy Vaughan, SVP Global Trade Development for Visit Lauderdale. “We want you to get excited; this event marks a turning point for our destination.”

Their visit to Canada comes at an opportune moment, as the country is experiencing winter’s peak, in contrast to Lauderdale’s balmy weather.

The event was an intimate gathering of trade media, tour operators and airline representatives held at the Parcheggio restaurant in Toronto.

Vaughan was accompanied by colleague Paul Mason, Visit Lauderdale’s Senior Manager, Global Trade Development, who represents the Canadian market, and Aimee Gable, Senior VP Events & Education for the US Travel Association, a co-host of the evening.

“We understand that the world is a bit uncertain these days, but I believe in what we do very much, and we think you do too. Travel is important as it bridges differences, and with new products introduced throughout the pandemic, we felt it was the right time for IPW, and we’re going to make it wonderful,” said Vaughan.

She added: “Canada is our number one international market. We invite you to experience our destination truly. This is a genuine welcome, not just a presentation.”

IPW: CAPTURING THE ESSENCE OF LAUDERDALE

Greater Fort Lauderdale, often dubbed the ‘Venice of America,’ sets the scene for IPW 2026, offering 3,000 hours of sunshine each year and 38km of golden beaches – key draws for event attendees and visitors alike.

Building on its natural appeal, the area has undergone a renaissance, offering visitors a fresh experience.

Vaughan mentioned that participants of IPW can expect some changes compared to previous years. “We’re great for the outdoors. When was the last time you attended an opening night on a beach?” she asked. She also offered a bit of humorous reassurance ahead of IPW. “The rumour that you’re not going to get fed lunches is completely untrue,” prompting laughter from the room.

The newly renovated and expanded Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center will host IPW 2026 from May 17-21. The venue features panoramic views of the cruise port and the intracoastal waterway through its stunning glass walls. It is conveniently located just a short drive from the airport, the beaches, and Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas district, which offers dining, shopping, arts, and entertainment.

As always IPW aims to showcase the destination’s transformation over the years and to facilitate meaningful meetings among industry leaders, underscoring the event’s impact.

This year, attendees will benefit from a fully dedicated cruising pavilion that brings together all major cruise lines and highlights the latest trends, providing participants with direct access and industry insights.

To fully embrace the Fort Lauderdale sunshine, the expanded event space’s outdoor plaza will promote networking and product exploration in an engaging, open-air setting.

“IPW will feel different this year because it’s going to be a campus, and we’re excited to present this for the first time,” said Aimee Gabel, Senior VP, Events & Education for the US Travel Association. “We’re thrilled to create this new campus so that the U.S. experience comes to life at IPW with more than just scheduled appointments,” she added.

“IF YOU LOVE WATER, WE’RE THE PLACE TO BE”

No doubt, many Canadians are familiar with Greater Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful beaches, which have long been the cornerstone of its tourism with good reason. Yet, there is more to discover. “We are all about water: water culture, water sports, water activities. If you love water, we’re the place to be,” said Mason.

With 483 kilometres of picturesque waterways, it’s no wonder the destination is known as the yachting capital of the world and is home to 50,000 boats, including yachts, sailboats, and catamarans.

And cruise? Well, it’s still having a moment, with Port Everglades currently the third-busiest cruise homeport in the world. On average, cruisers spend between two and four nights in Greater Fort Lauderdale for pre- and post-cruise stays, with over 38,000 unique lodging options.

The Omni Fort Lauderdale and Pier Sixty-Six & Marina, which opened in 2025, were recently added to Ft. Lauderdale’s list of hotels.

It’s not only the beaches that are drawing attention. The county also boasts an incredible level of diversity, featuring some 170 different cultures and 4,000 eateries, including Michelin-rated restaurants. Additionally, the county is proud to be recognized as the LGBT capital of Florida.

LAUDERDALE LOYALIST PROGRAM

For travel advisors looking to enhance their knowledge of the Greater Fort Lauderdale destination, they can do so through the Lauderdale Loyalist learning program. The learning program is complementary to the trade and accessible via the web and mobile app download.

The platform ensures advisors gain expert knowledge and access to promotional tools and sales resources to market themselves as certified specialists and successfully elevate their businesses.

To learn more about the Lauderdale Loyalist program, click here. For information on IPW 2026 and registration, visit the official website here.

Lead image caption: Greater Fort Lauderdale is gearing up to host its first-ever IPW, taking place May 17-21, 2026 at the newly renovated and expanded Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center