General questions

What is HPBExpo26?

HPBExpo26 brings together the full spectrum of hearth, outdoor living, and barbecue professionals. Held annually, it’s where business gets done—serving as the premier marketplace for buyers to discover new products, connect with key players, and spark ideas for growth. Exhibitors showcase the latest in home heating, grills and accessories, outdoor kitchens, casual furniture, and all-weather entertainment for the outdoor room. Attendees also gain access to business services and technology solutions designed to elevate operations. Open to the trade only, HPBExpo is where the industry meets to move forward.

Who attends HPBExpo26?

HPBExpo26 attracts a wide range of professionals shaping the future of the hearth, outdoor living, and barbecue industries. Attendees include specialty retailers, mass-market buyers, installing distributors, service professionals (chimney sweeps and installers), builders and remodelers, HVAC contractors, LP and hardware dealers, and other decision-makers seeking innovative products and strategies to stay ahead of consumer demand. Join 1,300+ buying companies and 5,500+ professionals at the only event curated specifically for the hearth, outdoor living, and barbecue industries.

Who exhibits at HPBExpo26, and what products can you expect to see?

HPBExpo26 features manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in North America and world-wide. Expect to see the latest in hearth appliances and accessories, grills and outdoor kitchen setups, patio furniture, spas and water features, outdoor entertainment products, and outdoor room innovations. Business service providers—including software, logistics, and marketing firms—are also on the show floor, helping attendees streamline operations and grow their businesses. Whether you’re sourcing new products or exploring services that support your success, HPBExpo is your one-stop marketplace.

When and where is HPBExpo26?

HPBExpo26 is March 18 – 21 at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Indoor exhibits are located in Halls G-H-I. Outdoor Exhibitions are located right outside Hall H in Parking Lot F. March 18 will feature special sessions and functions for HPBA members and attendees; indoor and outdoor exhibits will be open March 19 – 21.

Registration: March 18 – 21, 2026

Pre-Show Meetings/Functions/Events: March 18, 2026

Exhibits & Expo Education Program: March 19 – 21, 2026

How much does it cost to park at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center?

Up-to-date parking information is available on the Center’s website: https://mccno.com/gettinghere/

Where are future HPBExpo’s being held?

HPBExpos are currently planned in the cities listed below. We are also considering what other cities will work for future shows! If you would like HPBA to investigate a particular city for future consideration, please contact us with your request.

Nashville, Tennessee
Louisville, Kentucky
New Orleans, Louisiana

What are the dates and hours for indoor and outdoor exhibits*?

Thursday, March 19: 10 AM – 5 PM
Friday, March 20: 10 AM – 5 PM
Saturday, March 21: 10 AM – 3 PM

*Trade show/exhibit and/or event hours are subject to change.

Indoor exhibits are located in Halls G-H-I of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, while outdoor exhibits are located just outside of Hall H, at the front of Parking Lot F.

Are children permitted to attend the show?

In accordance with display rules and regulations and security measures, children under the age of 12, including infants, are prohibited from entering the Exhibit Hall, Outdoor Burn Exhibit area, and events at any time. There will be no exceptions to this rule. Children 12 and older must have a badge to enter the Exhibit Hall, Outdoor Burn Exhibit area, and events. Badge(s) can be added or purchased online through badge registration or at onsite registration.

Can I take pictures of exhibits?

Cameras will be allowed on the show floor, but no picture taking, including cell phone pictures, is allowed without the express approval of a company representative in the exhibitor booth that is being photographed.

Can I hold a meeting or event in conjunction with HPBExpo26?

HPBA uses a formal process for reviewing requests for these types of meetings to protect HPBExpo26 from any activities that detract from the industries’ premier annual event, or that could undermine the investment made by its exhibitors, sponsors, attendees, and other stakeholders. Click here for the Ancillary Meeting Policy and steps on how to submit a request.

Can I rent a Scooter or Wheelchair for HPBExpo26?

Use the Mobility Scooter Reservation Form to rent a scooter or wheelchair for HPBExpo26.

Attendee questions

When does badge Pre-Registration open?

Pre-Registration opens online on September 16, 2025.

How do I register my company? When do we get our badges?

Attendees can register company personnel beginning September 16.  All pre-registered individuals must pick up badges onsite.  Onsite badge registration will also be available in New Orleans. Attendees are encouraged to register early for the best badge rate.

Can anyone register for HPBExpo26?

HPBExpo26 is open to trade only. Your company must be in the hearth, outdoor living, or barbecue industry. Examples of qualified attendees include industry dealers/retailers, service companies (chimney sweeps/installers), distributors, independent sales reps, mass merchants, designers, remodelers, builders, landscapers, and architects. Suppliers, manufacturers, and providers of business services companies (associate members and non-members) are eligible for Exhibitor or Sponsor badges only and cannot register as Attendees.

Suitcasing and Outboarding Policy: As a premier event in the hearth, outdoor living, and barbecue industry, HPBExpo is committed to providing all participants a fair and inclusive environment. We urge our sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees to comply with our Suitcasing & Outboarding policy, which is not only an HPBA policy, but also a standard recognized by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events. This policy will be strictly enforced.

What does it cost to attend?

HPBA Affiliate Members may be eligible for an allotment of complimentary badges based on their membership category. Additional member badges will be available for purchase at discounted rates. Qualified non-member companies can register at the non-member badge rate. Complete badge pricing for HPBExpo26 will be available on the Attendee Badge Registration page by September 16.

When is the badge Pre-Registration deadline?

Onsite registration will open on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 AM Central Time; however, both online and onsite registration will remain open until 2 PM Central Time on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

When is the refund/cancellation deadline?

Refunds for Expo badge registration, paid education courses, NFI certification, and paid meetings and events, less a $10 administrative fee, will be made if the request is received in writing by February 9, 2026. No refunds will be made after that date. To request a refund, please email registration@hpba.org. HPBA will not accept a cancellation/refund request over the phone. All refunds will be processed within 45 days after the conclusion of Expo. No refunds for Expo badge registration, paid education courses, NFI certification, or paid meetings and events will be made for payments received onsite.

When does onsite registration open for attendee Badge Pick-Up?

Badge Pick-Up will open for Exhibitors and Attendees on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 AM Central Time, and remain open until 2 PM Central Time on Saturday, March 21.

How do I check the status of my registration?

Your registration status can be checked online by going to the special link located in the email confirmation you received after registering. You may also email registration@hpba.org.

How can I make changes or additions, if I already registered?

Changes and additions can be made online by going to the special link located in the email confirmation you received after registering. You may also email registration@hpba.org.

Education & NFI Certification Questions

I’m NFI Certified. How many CEUs will I earn at HPBExpo26?

CEU’s will be available at Expo depending on which and how many classes you attend. If you are NFI or CSIA certified (or both), you will get CEU’s for attending sessions at HPBExpo26. Make sure you have your badge scanned to earn CEU’s.

I’d like to present a program at an upcoming HPBExpo. How do I go about submitting my request?

Please call 703-524-8030 to discuss future program opportunities.

How can I register for education sessions at HPBExpo?

Education sessions will be free for attendees and are included in your HPBExpo registration, unless otherwise noted within the registration process. The HPBExpo26 Education Program will take place exclusively on the trade show floor starting on Thursday, March 19.

Please note this does not include NFI Certification Review Courses, click here for information on how to sign-up and purchase an NFI Certification Review Course or Exam.

Do I need to register separately for each session?

Aside from specially-marked courses with a separate materials fee and the NFI programs, you do not need to indicate each session you are interested in.

Can I register for NFI certification onsite?

You can add NFI Certification at the show, but you should register in advance to have time to study the manual.

Can I register multiple people with one contact name?

You will need to register each individual person, although one person can perform the task.

If I register for NFI, will I get the book in advance?

Yes, the study manual for the review/exam you sign-up for will be sent to you once you have completed your order.

How long does it take to receive the manual?

All manuals are shipped via USPS which usually takes between 2-3 business days; depending on location.

I’m taking the test and also some classes. If I pass the test will those courses count for CEUs?

Yes, if you are successful in passing the examination, you will receive CEU credit for any courses you attended.

Does the education program offer CEU credits?

Many education classes do offer CEU credits. Please refer to the education schedule by going to Education Info (coming soon) and refer to specific sessions to see if CEU credits are offered. Note: CEU information is provided in this schedule in anticipation of the number of CEUs approved for each session. However, the CEU Committee will make the final decision on CEU accreditation just prior to HPBExpo26.

All education sessions at HPBExpo26 qualify for both NFI and CSIA CEU’s. If you are NFI or CSIA certified or both you will get CEU’s for attending sessions at HPBExpo.

Will all the Expo sessions be available online?

HPBExpo26 education sessions are exclusive to HPBExpo26. Unless otherwise noted, onsite sessions will not be available online.

Hotel & Travel Questions

Where can I find a list of hotels and rates?

Reservations for hotels in the HPBExpo26 housing block will be available through our official housing partner. Hotel reservations will be available beginning in early Summer 2025.

How can I make changes or cancellations to my hotel reservations?

Reservation changes and cancellations can be made online by emailing registration@hpba.org until March 4, 2026. After March 4, 2026, please contact your hotel directly.

How do I get to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center?

Most properties within the official HPBExpo26 hotel block are within walking distance to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Available city transportation include Uber, Lyft, and taxi services.

Where can I find additional information about Travel? Restaurants? Things to Do?

Experience New Orleans by taking part in events, arts & culture, shopping, sports & outdoor activities, tours and much more. Visit the New Orleans Information site for restaurants, events, discounts, and things to do while in New Orleans.

Exhibitor Questions

What does it cost to exhibit at HPBExpo?

EXHIBIT SPACE FEES:

A. Member Category:

1. Priority Rate: $30/32+ per square foot~
2. Early Bird Rate: $33/35+ per square foot~ 
3. Standard Rate: $36/38+ per square foot~
4. Late Entry Rate: $40/42+ per square foot~
HPBA members paying dues and in good standing at the time of HPBExpo 

B. Non-Member Category

1. Priority Rate: $40/42+ per square foot~ 
2. Early Bird Rate: $43/45+ per square foot~ 
3. Standard Rate: $46/48+ per square foot~ 
4. Late Entry Rate: $50/52+ per square foot~
Exhibitors not members of HPBA or in good standing at the time of HPBExpo

C. Rate Periods

1. Priority Rates available through March 29, 2025 ONLY
2. Early Bird Rates available after March 29, 2025 – October 1, 2025
3. Standard Rates available October 2, 2025 – January 8, 2026
4. Late Entry Rates available January 9, 2026 and after

+Secondary, higher price applies to indoor corner booths and all outdoor space over and above indoor space contracted.
All island booths will have 400 sq. ft. billed at the corner rate with remaining space at the inline rate.

~Member exhibitors with 2,000 sq. ft. or more will receive a $0.50 discount per sq. ft.

What does the cost of booth space provide?

The exhibit space fee covers the floor space for your exhibit. Linear booths will be set with an 8’ high back drape, 3’ high side dividers, and a 8 ½” x 14” black and white identification sign with company name and booth number. Booths over 300 sq. ft. are not automatically set with signage; however, signage is available upon request onsite at the Exhibitor Service Desk. Any carpeting, furniture, utilities, etc. is ordered separately through the official show decorator/general contractor, convention center, or approved vendor. Material handling fees for shipments arriving at the advanced warehouse or show site are not included in the exhibit space fee and will be billed by the show decorator to individual exhibitors onsite.

Am I allowed to share booth space with another company?

No. According to the HPBExpo26 Rules & Regulations, Section 5, “Subletting of Space Prohibited – Exhibitors are not permitted to assign or sublet a booth or any part of the space allotted to them, nor shall they exhibit, or permit to be exhibited in their space, any merchandise or advertising materials that are not part of their company’s regular product lines.”

Does exhibitor staff need to register for badges?

Yes, all exhibitor company staff and family must have a badge. Exhibit space applications/contracts and payments must be processed prior to exhibitor badge registration.

How do I register my staff? When do we get our badges?

Exhibitors can pre-register staff for badges beginning on September 16. All pre-registered exhibitors must pick up badges onsite.  Onsite badge registration will also be available in New Orleans. Exhibitors are encouraged to register early for the best badge price.

When does onsite registration open for exhibitor Badge Pick-Up?

Badge Pick-Up will open for Exhibitors on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 AM Central Time. Prior to this date and time, you will need to check in with onsite security for a wristband which allows personnel entry into the exhibit hall for set-up. Exhibitors must have proper company identification to obtain a wristband.

What Sponsorship Opportunities are available?

Sponsorship package options will be available in the fall of 2025. For more information contact sponsors@hpba.org to make your brand stand out.

When is the Exhibitor Service Manual (ESM) published?

The Exhibitor Service Manual will be available online in the Exhibit section in November 2025.

What is the New Product Pavilion and how does my company submit an entry?

Located on the show floor, the New Product Pavilion showcases new and exciting products and is a draw for attendees. Details and an online entry form will be available at www.hpbexpo.com in the fall within the Exhibit tab.

Products must be introduced to the market after HPBExpo25. Companies must be an HPBExpo26 exhibitor to be eligible for New Product Pavilion entry. Each product displayed in the New Product Pavilion will be an eligible entry for the 2026 Attendees’ Choice Awards (in the hearth, outdoor living, or barbecue category).

Who is the official Show Contractor?

Freeman is the official show decorator/general contractor for HPBExpo26. Check the online Exhibitor Service Manual, available in November 2025, for links to order products and services from Freeman, the convention center, and other approved vendors.

What are the 2026 Material Handling Rates?

All advanced shipments received at the Freeman warehouse as well as all shipments received onsite or driven to the convention center will incur a material handling fee by the official general contractor, Freeman. Exhibit materials that can be hand-carried in one trip from a legally parked vehicle by the exhibitor will not incur material handling fees. Dollies, hand trucks, or other means of wheeled transport are not permitted for hand-carry. Cars, Mini-Vans, Small Pick-Up Trucks, Full-Size Vans, and Large Pick-Up trucks requiring use of the dock area will be unloaded by Freeman for per-vehicle-load fee. Vehicles larger than a large pick-up truck, including those with trailers will be unloaded at the main dock at the published per hundred weight rates.

The 2026 material handling fee schedule can be reviewed in the online Exhibitor Service Manual – available in November 2025.