Check In. Level Up.: 2026 Conference Theme Unveiled & Registration Opens

​The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is pleased to announce the official theme for the 2026 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show:

Check In. Level Up.

​Selected by the WHLA Conference Committee, this year’s theme reflects the energy, momentum, and opportunity across Wisconsin’s lodging industry—and the shared commitment to move the industry forward together.

Registration is now open for the Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show, the state’s premier Wisconsin hospitality conference, bringing together the full lodging community for education, networking, and connection.

​About the 2026 Theme

“Check In. Level Up.” was chosen to represent both the experience and the intent of the conference.

• Check In reflects the importance of coming together as a community—connecting with peers, partners, and industry leaders from across Wisconsin
  
  
• Level Up represents the opportunity to gain insights, share ideas, and leave with actionable strategies to strengthen your business and professional growth

From education sessions to the trade show floor to networking opportunities throughout the event, every element of the conference is designed to help attendees engage meaningfully and move forward.

About the Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show

The Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show is WHLA’s largest annual event and the state’s leading hospitality conference, bringing together hotel owners, general managers, operators, sales and marketing leaders, vendors, educators, students, and rising professionals from both independent and branded properties.
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This event offers a comprehensive experience that includes:

• Educational programming featuring keynote presentations and breakout sessions led by industry experts
• Networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections across the Wisconsin lodging industry
• A trade show highlighting the latest products, services, and solutions supporting the hospitality sector
• A community-focused environment that celebrates and supports professionals at every stage of their career

Who Attends

The Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show represents the full spectrum of the lodging community, including:

• Hotel owners and operators
• General managers and resort directors
• Sales, marketing, and revenue leaders
• Independent and branded property teams
• Industry suppliers and partners
• Students and rising professionals

Whether you are an established leader or entering the industry, the conference provides an opportunity to connect with peers, explore new ideas, and engage with the broader hospitality community

Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities

Exhibitors and sponsors gain valuable visibility and direct access to decision-makers across the Wisconsin lodging industry.

Opportunities include:

• Exhibit hall participation
• Sponsorship packages
• Event recognition and branding
• Networking with high-value attendees

Exhibitor Information  |  Exhibitor + Sponsor Guide

Registration Details

​Registration is now open, with rates increasing as the event approaches. Early registration is encouraged to secure the best pricing and availability.

Early Registration Promotion

Register early for a chance to be one of 20 attendees to receive a complimentary room upgrade at Kalahari Resort.

• Register through WHLA and book within the official room block to be automatically entered
• Winners will receive a room upgrade while paying the original room rate

Early registration runs from April 1 through July 31.

Registration Discounts

Register before August 1 to take advantage of early savings:

• $100 Off Full Conference Pass, Monday/Tuesday Pass, or Monday Only Pass
  Code: EarlyPass_WHLA2026Conference
• $400 Off Full Conference Group of 4
  Code: EarlyGroup_WHLA2026Conference

Plan Your Stay

Rooms are available at Kalahari Resort for conference attendees at a discounted rate of $129 per night when booked in the WHLA Room Block.

• Discounted rates are available one day before and one day after the event, subject to availability
• Booking within the room block ensures access to conference pricing and eligibility for registration incentives

Speakers & Schedule

The conference schedule is available now, and speaker announcements will be shared in June. Additional details will be released as the program continues to develop.

Join Us

The Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show is where Wisconsin’s lodging community comes together to learn, connect, and grow.

With the introduction of this year’s theme — Check In. Level Up. — the 2026 conference is set to deliver an experience focused on connection, progress, and opportunity across the industry.

Register today!