Vision Expo announces move to a single annual event in 2026

As of this morning, the Vision Council and Rx have announced a strategic move for the Vision Expo series: Instead of hosting two annual events, Vision Expo East and Vision Expo West, there will be one Vision Expo held in Q1 of each year with the location to rotate around major US cities, starting with Orlando, Florida, in March of 2026. Following the flagship Vision Expo in 2026 in Orlando, the meeting will move to Las Vegas in 2027, New York City in 2028, and an unannounced location for 2029.

The decision to consolidate the meetings springs from feedback from exhibitors, attendees, industry partners, and board members. Leadership from the Vision Council share a vision of unity within the optical industry and believe that starts with a singular Vision Expo.

“Vision Expo was created to serve the industry, and this move reflects a strategic investment in its future,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. “By uniting the industry in one powerful annual moment, we create space for greater innovation, stronger partnerships, and long-term growth.”

The next evolution of Vision Expo intends to maximize value for attendees and exhibitors while streamlining participation to reflect the dynamic needs of the changing optical marketplace. As a leading optical showcase, Vision Expo plans to expand its reach among the industry by providing an opportunity to check out the latest technology, attend high-quality CE courses, and, of course, speak with myriad frame vendors from around the world.

“By concentrating resources to produce one yearly show, Vision Expo strengthens its position as the can’t-miss optical event in North America,” said April Stackhouse, Event Vice President, RX. “Participation is easier than ever, and the show will be better than ever – we are investing in immersive experiences, curated programming and exclusive opportunities for product launch and new business that can’t be found anywhere else.”

A few highlights from the vision of Vision Expo’s evolution:

• One comprehensive event that will serve as a hub for the optical community
• An enhanced experience for attendees, including expanded technology showcases, immersive activations, and enhanced networking
• Alignment with product launches (end of Q1), continuing education cycles, and key buying seasons
• Streamlined event planning among a busy industry events calendar
• Rotating city model to offer fresh experiences year-over-year while increasing regional access
• Room to grow in new areas outside the show’s distinguished optical presence

Upcoming Vision Expo schedule

• Vision Expo West 2025: September 17-20 in Las Vegas, Nevada – The Venetian Expo
• Vision Expo 2026: March 12-14 in Orlando, Florida – Orange County Convention Center
• Vision Expo 2027: March 11–13 in Las Vegas, Nevada – The Venetian Expo
• Vision Expo 2028: March 30–April 1 in New York, New York – The Javits Center

For more information about the refreshed Vision Expo series, visit their website.