46 • APRIL 2026 • PPAI The Coolest Events In Merch MOST MERCH PROS can’t wait to leave the house. They flock to buzzing trade show floors, insightful conferences and even laid-back hangouts. After all, these gatherings fuel learning and networking. With a packed industry calendar, organizers are dialing up creativity to deliver experiences that are as fun as they are essential for business growth. From unique trade shows to educational opportunities to just good ol’ fun in the sun, here are the coolest events in merch. Must Read | The Coolest Stuff in Merch Coolest Cast Of Ladies Since Bridesmaids A fashion show, self-defense class and bonfire were just a few of the activities at the Ohio Promotional Products Association’s Women In Merch event in Newark, Ohio. The retreat, designed to empower and uplift women in promo, offered ample opportunities for networking. “There’s a real need to bring our huge industry into a smaller arena where everyone can connect,” says OPPA Executive Director LaDonna Belcher. “After all, women need fellowship in a cozy way.” Coolest Volkswagen Type 2 Ride Peace, love and promo … can you dig it? The J Paul Company’s Vendor Showcase was a groovy, far-out trip back to the ’70s with disco balls, Saturday Night Fever fashion and even a flower power van. The Texas-based distributor invited clients to check out the latest products from prominent suppliers in between chowing down from a local food truck, spinning a prize wheel, experiencing a heat press demonstration and taking home a stuffed swag bag. Right on! Coolest DIY Headwear Experience More than 200 New Hampshire business leaders attended Fully Promote NH Businesses, Fully Promoted of Southern NH’s second annual client appreciation event. The main attraction was a Hat Bar, in which attendees could create and customize their own headwear with locally themed patches designed by the FPSNH team. “This event is our way of giving back while giving fellow business owners the chance to grow their networks and their businesses,” says Sal Calautti, owner and president of FPSNH. Coolest Reason To Drive For Show And Putt For Dough Before The PPAI Expo trade show floor opens, a hundred promo pros tee up at Las Vegas’s Bali Hai Golf Club for the Glen Holt & Fran Ford Memorial Golf Tournament. It’s the largest fundraiser of the year for the Promotional Products Education Foundation, which has awarded over $4 million in scholarships since its inception in 1989. PPEF uses industry donations to fund scholarships for education of industry professionals or their family members grey_and / Shutterstock.com
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