Greater Fort Lauderdale is targeting IPW 2026 and event tourism as a growth engine
The expansion of its convention center, new hotels, and a packed schedule of major events position the South Florida destination as one of the most dynamic hubs for meetings and leisure tourism
At FITUR 2026, Travel2latam spoke with Caitlan Etchevers, Senior Business Development Manager of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, about the destination's presence in the European market, its strategy to attract new travelers, and the relevance of IPW 2026 for its international positioning.
What does it mean for you to participate again in FITUR and be present at an event that marks the beginning of the tourist season?
We are very happy to be here at FITUR. This is our second year participating because we see Spain as a market with great potential for tourism to Greater Fort Lauderdale. We know that Spanish travelers enjoy our cuisine, shopping, and beaches, so we are here to continue supporting that growth.
What do they have planned for this year, which is shaping up to be very important for the destination?
This year is packed with activities. Our main focus is IPW 2026, which will be coming to Fort Lauderdale for the first time ever. We've been working hard for some time to create the best possible experience for everyone who visits us.
In addition, we will be present at other events before March, when the IPW registration period closes, to support those who want to participate and to introduce the fair to those who are not yet familiar with it, inviting them to experience Fort Lauderdale for the first time.
For those unfamiliar with the destination, what city will they find when they arrive in Fort Lauderdale in 2026?
You'll find a city undergoing a complete transformation. The biggest news is the expansion of our convention center, which now boasts a waterfront building with an open plaza and green spaces to enjoy the climate and surroundings—perfectly in line with our identity as the yachting capital of the world.
The Omni Hotel also opened in December and will be the resort's flagship hotel, a truly impressive luxury offering. And there will be a grand welcome party on the beach and many other surprises we're preparing for IPW.
How did 2025 end and what are your expectations for 2026?
2025 was a year with some surprises in the United States, but we finished on a positive note, even with slight growth, and that's something to celebrate. We're optimistic for 2026. Events like IPW and the World Cup, which will have matches in Miami, are going to give us a big boost. Approximately 50% of the people who attend events at Hard Rock Stadium stay in Greater Fort Lauderdale, so we know we're going to have a very strong season.
What other events are driving demand in the destination?
We have sports championships, an art festival in February that grows every year, a very popular food festival, and a cruise industry that continues to expand from Port Everglades, with brands like Disney and Celebrity experiencing sustained growth. All of that has helped us a lot.
Inter Miami also has a role in this dynamic, right?
Yes, although the team will move to its new stadium in Miami near the airport, it will continue training in Fort Lauderdale. The stadium will also continue to host games, concerts, and other events. They now offer tours, something that wasn't available before, where visitors can see the first stadium where Messi officially played in the United States and watch the training sessions. It's a new and very attractive product for visitors.