Picture this: You've just spent three days at an industry conference. You met dozens of interesting people and collected a stack of business cards. You felt excited about all the possibilities. But now, two weeks later, those cards are sitting in a drawer. You can't remember who anyone was or why you wanted to connect.

Sound familiar? For event planners, attending the right conferences for event planners is a big deal. It's how you learn new things and meet important people. But choosing the best events can be tough. And making connections that actually last? That's even harder.

This isn't just about collecting business cards. It's about missing out on chances that could grow your business. When people don't make good connections, everyone loses. Attendees feel like they wasted their time and money. And event organizers can't prove their event was a success.

What if there was a better way to make sure every handshake turns into a real opportunity? In this guide, we'll explore the top conferences for event planners in Canada and beyond. We'll help you decide where to spend your time and energy. And we'll show you how to solve that 'forgotten business card' problem for good.

1. Canadian Meetings + Events Expo (CMEE)

For event professionals focused on the Canadian market, the Canadian Meetings + Events Expo (CMEE) is an essential annual gathering. Held in Toronto, it stands as Canada’s largest and longest-running trade show for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. It’s the go-to conference for planners looking to connect with a concentrated group of Canadian suppliers and venues.

Imagine you're planning a multi-city corporate roadshow across Canada. Instead of spending weeks making cold calls and researching vendors in different provinces, CMEE brings them all to you under one roof. The expo floor is specifically curated to serve the Canadian events landscape, featuring everything from major hotel chains and convention centres to innovative event tech and unique local suppliers.

What Makes CMEE Stand Out?

CMEE’s primary strength is its sharp focus on the Canadian market. While international suppliers are present, the core of the event is dedicated to helping planners build their national network. This makes it an incredibly efficient one-stop shop for sourcing and trend-spotting within Canada.

The educational component is another key draw. Sessions are designed to provide practical, actionable insights and often qualify for Continuing Education (CE) credits from industry associations. This allows attendees to invest in their professional development while building their supplier lists.

Pro Tip: Before attending, review the exhibitor list on the CMEE website. Create a prioritized list of vendors you need to meet. This simple step can transform your expo experience from a casual wander into a highly productive sourcing mission, helping you perfect every detail just like a thorough event planning checklist would guide you to do.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Corporate, association, and independent meeting and event planners operating in or sourcing from Canada.

• Networking: The expo floor is the main networking hub. Some years also feature hosted-buyer programs and dedicated appointment-setting systems, offering more structured connection opportunities.

• Location: The event is consistently held in downtown Toronto, making it easily accessible for professionals in the Greater Toronto Area but potentially requiring more travel for those in Western or Atlantic Canada.

• Access: Registration is typically straightforward via the official website, with options for trade show-only access or full conference passes that include educational sessions.

While the depth of educational content can vary annually, CMEE remains one of the most valuable conferences for event planners in Canada due to its unmatched concentration of domestic suppliers and focused networking environment.

Website: https://www.cmeexpo.ca

2. CSE Live (by Canadian Special Events)

For event professionals who thrive on creativity, design, and production, CSE Live is a standout experience in the Canadian landscape. Produced by Canadian Special Events magazine, this multi-day conference is a dynamic hub for event designers, producers, and planners looking to push creative boundaries. It’s a place where inspiration meets practical, hands-on learning.

Imagine you're trying to elevate a corporate gala from a standard dinner to an unforgettable immersive experience. CSE Live provides the specific tools and connections to make that happen. The conference sessions and trade show, known as EventFest, are geared towards the "how-to" of event design, showcasing everything from cutting-edge lighting and A/V to innovative décor and entertainment, all with a uniquely Canadian flavour.

What Makes CSE Live Stand Out?

CSE Live’s strength lies in its sharp focus on the creative and production aspects of event planning. While many conferences cover logistics and management, CSE Live dives deep into design-forward education, often featuring sessions based on real Canadian case studies. This provides tangible examples and inspiration that planners can directly apply to their own projects.

The integration of the Canadian Event Awards gala is another major draw. Attendees can celebrate the industry's best work and network with award-winning peers, making it a powerful opportunity for both learning and connection. The multi-tiered pass options allow attendees to customize their experience, whether they want the full conference, just the trade show, or to join the social events.

Pro Tip: The social and networking events at CSE Live are renowned for their high-energy and creative themes, but they can sell out. Book these ticketed events as soon as you register to guarantee your spot. It's a prime opportunity for informal networking with industry leaders in a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Event designers, producers, planners, and suppliers focused on the creative, production, and experiential side of the industry.

• Networking: Themed networking breaks, the EventFest trade show floor, and the Canadian Event Awards gala offer diverse and vibrant opportunities to connect with peers and suppliers.

• Location: The event is held in the Toronto area, making it a convenient hub but requiring travel for professionals from other parts of Canada.

• Access: Registration is managed through the CSE Live website, with a variety of pass options available, from single-day trade show access to all-inclusive three-day conference passes.

For those looking to spark creativity and master the art of event design and production, CSE Live is one of the most valuable conferences for event planners in the country, offering a perfect blend of practical education and industry celebration.

Website: https://cselive.ca

3. GO WEST (Timewise Event Management)

For event professionals based in, or focused on, Western Canada, GO WEST is an annual conference that punches well above its weight. Held in Edmonton and produced by Timewise Event Management, it offers a refreshing, community-focused alternative to larger national trade shows. It’s the ideal conference for planners seeking high-quality education and meaningful connections without the overwhelming scale of a mega-expo.

Imagine you're an event planner in Calgary or Vancouver. Attending a major conference in Toronto or the U.S. involves significant time and travel costs. GO WEST brings top-tier education and a curated supplier network right to your doorstep. The conference is developed by event professionals, for event professionals, ensuring the content is always relevant, practical, and addresses the specific challenges of the Canadian market.

What Makes GO WEST Stand Out?

GO WEST’s strength lies in its intimate and intentional design. The program balances insightful keynotes from Canadian industry leaders with an expo floor and both structured and informal networking opportunities. This creates an environment where you can learn from the best, discover regional suppliers, and build genuine relationships with peers from across the country in a more manageable setting.

The educational programming is a significant draw, often developed in partnership with organizations like MPI to deliver valuable, career-enhancing content. The timing, typically mid-winter, is also strategic, allowing planners to learn and network during a slightly slower period before the busy spring and summer event season kicks into high gear.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of the planner-friendly registration discounts often available. Because the event is organised by planners, they understand budget constraints and structure their pricing transparently, making it more accessible for independent professionals and smaller teams to attend.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Corporate, association, and independent event planners, particularly those based in Western Canada, but attracting a national audience.

• Networking: A balanced mix of a bustling expo floor for supplier discovery and dedicated social events that foster more relaxed, authentic conversations among attendees.

• Location: The event is held in Edmonton, Alberta, providing a convenient and central hub for professionals throughout the western provinces.

• Access: Registration is managed directly through the GO WEST website. Various pass types are usually available, catering to different budgets and professional needs.

While smaller than some international conferences for event planners, GO WEST delivers immense value through its highly relevant, Canadian-centric programming and a powerful, community-driven networking atmosphere.

Website: https://www.gowestlive.com

4. PCMA Canada East – Canadian Innovation Conference (CIC)

For event professionals seeking high-calibre education and intimate networking opportunities, the PCMA Canada East – Canadian Innovation Conference (CIC) is a standout event. This chapter-run conference is tailored specifically for the Canadian meetings and events industry, emphasizing advanced learning and community building in a setting that’s more focused and personal than a large-scale trade show.

Imagine you're an experienced planner wanting to deepen your expertise on complex topics like sustainability reporting or AI integration, rather than just covering the basics. CIC provides a platform for these advanced discussions, bringing together senior-level planners and suppliers who are serious about pushing the industry forward. It’s where you go for in-depth workshops and peer-to-peer problem-solving, not just a quick exchange of business cards.

What Makes CIC Stand Out?

CIC’s greatest strength lies in its PCMA-backed educational pedigree. The sessions are meticulously designed to be both innovative and highly relevant to the challenges and opportunities within the Canadian market. Attendees can often earn CE clock hours toward professional designations like the CMP (Certified Meeting Professional), making it a valuable investment in career growth.

The conference excels at fostering genuine connections. Its smaller, more intimate scale means you aren't lost in a crowd. This environment encourages meaningful conversations between planners and suppliers, building relationships that extend well beyond the event itself. It’s a prime opportunity to connect with decision-makers in a focused, collaborative atmosphere.

Pro Tip: The PCMA Canada East website clearly outlines the program and speaker list well in advance. Use this to identify sessions that align with your professional development goals. The intimate nature of this event means it is the perfect environment for applying new strategies, like those found in a good post-event engagement guide to maintain the strong connections you make.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Mid-to-senior level corporate, association, and independent meeting professionals, as well as suppliers looking for quality engagement in the Canadian market.

• Networking: The conference is built for networking, with a favourable planner-to-supplier ratio, dedicated networking breaks, and social events designed for deeper interaction.

• Location: Typically held in Ontario or Quebec, which is convenient for professionals in Central Canada but may require travel for those on the East or West coasts.

• Access: Registration is managed directly through the PCMA Canada East website, which also provides transparent details on hotel blocks and travel discounts to simplify budget planning.

While it is a chapter-scale event and not a massive international trade show, CIC is one of the premier conferences for event planners in Canada who prioritize advanced education and high-quality networking.

Website: https://canadaeast.pcma.org/canadian-innovation-conference/

5. IMEX America

For event planners with a global perspective, IMEX America is the pinnacle event. Held annually in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, it is North America’s largest and most influential trade show for the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry. It's the essential conference for planners aiming to build an international network of suppliers, venues, and destinations.

Imagine you're tasked with organizing a series of international corporate incentive trips. Sourcing reliable partners in multiple countries could take months of research and vetting. IMEX America solves this by gathering the entire global MICE industry under one roof. The massive exhibitor floor features pavilions from nearly every corner of the world, allowing you to meet with destination management companies, hotel groups, and convention bureaus from dozens of countries in just a few days.

What Makes IMEX America Stand Out?

IMEX America’s defining feature is its sheer scale and global scope. It offers unparalleled access to international suppliers, making it a powerhouse for sourcing and business development on a global level. The pre-scheduled appointment system allows both buyers and exhibitors to arrange meetings in advance, ensuring a productive and efficient experience.

The educational component is another major draw, anchored by the free "Smart Monday" powered by MPI. This full day of professional development, held the day before the trade show opens, provides deep dives into industry trends, sustainability, technology, and leadership. This commitment to education makes IMEX more than just a trade show; it’s one of the most comprehensive conferences for event planners looking for both business and learning.

Pro Tip: If you qualify, apply for the hosted-buyer program. This can cover your flights and accommodation, significantly reducing the cost of attendance. As a hosted buyer, you commit to a schedule of pre-set appointments, which guarantees you’ll have meaningful conversations with relevant suppliers.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Corporate, association, and agency planners who organize events globally. It is also a key event for suppliers, destinations, and venues looking to attract international business.

• Networking: The event is built around business connections. Pre-scheduled appointments, a massive show floor, and countless networking receptions provide structured and informal opportunities to meet peers and partners from around the world.

• Location: Las Vegas is a major international travel hub, but for Canadians, travel and accommodation costs can be significant if not participating in the hosted-buyer program.

• Access: Registration is available through the official website. Planners can register as a regular attendee (buyer) or apply for the hosted-buyer program, which has specific qualification criteria.

While the size of the event can feel overwhelming, its robust structure and focus on pre-scheduled business meetings make it an incredibly efficient and valuable experience for any planner operating on the world stage.

Website: https://imexamerica.com

6. Meeting Professionals International (MPI)

For event planners seeking continuous professional growth and year-round networking, Meeting Professionals International (MPI) serves less as a single conference and more as an essential industry hub. As the world's largest association for meeting and event professionals, MPI offers a vast ecosystem of global conferences, localized Canadian chapter events, and specialized education, making it a foundational resource for planners at every career stage.

Imagine trying to stay current in a rapidly changing industry while also building a network beyond your local market. Instead of waiting for one big annual event, MPI's website provides a centralized calendar of opportunities. You could attend a major international conference one month, a virtual workshop on event technology the next, and a networking mixer with your local city chapter, all organized under the same professional banner.

What Makes MPI Stand Out?

MPI's core strength is its community and the sheer frequency of its offerings. It’s not just about one or two large-scale conferences for event planners; it's about providing a constant stream of development and connection. The strong Canadian chapter presence, with flagship events like "theEVENT," means planners get access to high-calibre programming tailored to the national market without always needing to travel internationally.

Furthermore, the MPI Academy delivers education that leads to valuable Continuing Education (CE) credits, helping professionals maintain their certifications. Its partnerships with other major industry shows, such as powering the "Smart Monday" education day at IMEX America, solidify its role as a leading voice in industry education.

Pro Tip: Your MPI membership is a key that unlocks significant value. Before registering for any event, log in to your MPI account. Members often receive substantial discounts on registration, access to exclusive networking sessions, and early-bird opportunities that can dramatically improve your event ROI.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: Corporate, association, government, and independent event planners at all levels, as well as suppliers to the MICE industry.

• Networking: Opportunities are diverse, ranging from large-scale expos and hosted-buyer programs at global conferences to intimate chapter-level mixers. Their platform helps you make connections, a crucial element explored in the state of event networking in 2025 report.

• Location: Global conferences are held in major cities worldwide. Canadian chapter events are hosted in cities across the country, though travel may be required depending on your home base and the event location.

• Access: Many resources and the best event pricing are exclusive to MPI members. Membership provides year-round benefits, but non-members can typically register for events at a higher rate via the main website.

While the best value is reserved for members, MPI's extensive calendar of both grand and intimate gatherings provides an unparalleled platform for ongoing learning and powerful networking.

Website: https://www.mpi.org/events

7. Eventbrite Canada (Conference discovery for Event Planners)

While not a single conference, Eventbrite Canada is a powerful discovery engine that no event professional should overlook. Think of it as a comprehensive, real-time catalogue of industry gatherings across the country. It’s the perfect tool for planners looking to find hyper-local meetups, niche workshops, or specialized training sessions that might not appear on the radar of major industry publications.

Imagine you're a new event planner in Calgary wanting to connect with local suppliers or learn about regional trends. Instead of searching aimlessly online, Eventbrite allows you to filter by city, date, and category ("Business & Professional") to instantly find relevant workshops, networking nights, or small-scale conferences for event planners happening right in your backyard. This platform excels at uncovering the hidden gems of the Canadian events scene.

What Makes Eventbrite Canada Stand Out?

Eventbrite's strength lies in its sheer breadth and accessibility. It democratizes the event landscape, giving a platform to everything from large-scale expos to intimate, single-day masterclasses on topics like sustainable event management or the latest in event technology. For planners seeking targeted professional development or local networking, this variety is invaluable.

The platform’s user-friendly interface simplifies the discovery and registration process. With transparent pricing, instant ticketing, and mobile access, it removes friction for busy professionals. Furthermore, the inclusion of both in-person and virtual events means you can find learning opportunities regardless of your location or travel budget.

Pro Tip: Use the "Follow" feature for organizers who host valuable events. This will notify you of their future listings, ensuring you don't miss out on recurring workshops or annual meetups. It’s an easy way to build a customized feed of professional development opportunities.

Key Features and Considerations

• Target Audience: All event professionals, from students and freelancers to corporate and association planners, looking for a wide range of educational and networking events.

• Networking: Varies significantly by event. The platform is best used to find the networking opportunity, whether it's a small meetup or a large trade show.

• Location: Nationwide, with robust listings in major Canadian cities as well as a vast selection of virtual and online events.

• Access: Accessing the site is free. Event ticket prices are set by individual organizers, and processing fees are added at checkout.

While the quality of events can vary-requiring planners to vet organizers and agendas carefully-Eventbrite Canada remains an essential resource for continuous learning and discovering niche gatherings that drive professional growth.

Website: https://www.eventbrite.ca

7 Major Conferences for Event Planners Comparison

Turn Every Conference into a Goldmine of Connections

Going to the right event is just the first step. The list of conferences for event planners is full of great choices. Each one is a chance to learn and grow. But the real magic happens when you make real connections. The true value isn't just in the talks you hear. It’s in the people you meet and the ideas you bring back to your team.

Think of each conference as a fun experiment. It's a place to try new ideas and meet smart people. You can build a support network that helps you long after the event is over. The secret is to stop just attending and start engaging.

From Passive Attendee to Active Connector

Want to get more out of every conference? It all starts with a plan.

• Know Your "Why": Why are you going to this specific event? Do you need new suppliers? Are you looking for new tech ideas? Do you want to meet planners in a certain field? Having a clear goal helps you focus.

• Do Your Homework: Look at the attendee list if you can. Check out the speakers. Pick 5-10 key people you want to meet. This is much better than just hoping to bump into someone.

• Tell Your Story: Be ready to explain what you do in 30 seconds. People love to help solve problems. Don't just say your job title. Talk about a challenge or a goal you have.

Choosing Your Next Strategic Move

So, which conference is the right one for you? Your choice should match your goals.

• For big-picture Canadian insights, CMEE and CSE Live are great places to start. They give you a full view of the national events world.

• For fresh ideas with a western focus, GO WEST offers a creative and exciting atmosphere.

• For planners who love strategy, PCMA's CIC and MPI events offer top-level learning and powerful networking.

Here's the most important thing to remember: the best conferences for event planners are the ones you use to your advantage. They are powerful tools. But like any tool, they only work if you use them right. Go beyond the booths and big speeches. Invite people you met to a small dinner. Use the event app to schedule one-on-one coffees. Turn every chat into a chance to work together. When you show up with a plan, your investment will pay off for years to come.

What if you could make sure every person at your event makes the right connection, without any extra work? Event Butler by SyncLab is a smart tool that uses WhatsApp to introduce people. It automatically schedules meetings for them, and 94% of people show up! This makes your attendees happier and proves your event was a huge success. See how you can turn missed opportunities into valuable connections at Event Butler by SyncLab.