If your business is in the restaurant, foodservice, or hospitality industry and it’s never exhibited at The National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show, by the time you’re done reading this article, you’ll be asking yourself—why not?
This show brings together all of the industry’s key buyers under one roof. It attracts thousands of exhibitors and over 500 international brands and features innovations across 900+ product categories.
If this doesn’t whet your appetite (pun intended), we’re not sure what will.
The best time to exhibit at The National Restaurant Association Show was this year, but the second best time is in 2026.
Here’s why you need to secure your spot, what you can expect from next year’s show, and how you can prepare for it.
What is the National Restaurant Association Show?
The National Restaurant Association Show is the largest foodservice event in the Western Hemisphere and takes place at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago each year.
Attendees will:
- Benefit from unprecedented networking opportunities
- Have exclusive access to the industry’s newest innovations
- Gain insights into emerging trends
- Be able to explore cutting-edge equipment
- Partake in various educational sessions and workshops
There’s even the opportunity to sample new flavors. What’s not to love?
The NRA itself has existed since 1919. As it states on its website, it’s been around since Charlie Chaplin was starring in movies.
This fact puts into context the legacy and reputation it’s built, the obstacles it’s had to overcome, and how respected it is in the foodservice industry.
Who attends the National Restaurant Association Show?
-1.jpg)
The National Restaurant Association Show attracts qualified buyers from all 50 states and an incredible 124 countries.
It’s exclusively for professionals involved in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industry. This includes:
- Restaurant operators and owners
- Chefs
- Hospitality professionals
- Food and beverage manufacturers and suppliers
- Equipment, technology, and service vendors
- Global foodservice professionals, buyers, decision-makers, and industry leaders
All areas of the industry are covered, giving you the best chance of gaining valuable facetime and connecting with the key stakeholders who will help you grow your business.
Key information about the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
Here are all the important details you need to know to start preparing for next year’s event.
When is the National Restaurant Association Show 2026 taking place?
May 16-19 2026 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago.
To maximize your impact at the show, you should let your exhibit house know that you’re planning to attend six months in advance.
What are the trade show floor hours at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026?
The 2026 show hours are:
- Saturday, May 16 - Monday, May 18: 9:30 - 17:00
- Tuesday, May 19: 9:30 - 15:00
What is the deadline for applications?
At the time of writing, the deadline for applications hasn’t been made publicly available. However, if your company would like to secure a speaker slot at the show, the deadline for submissions is Friday, September 19, 2025.
For exact deadlines and to secure booth space, you should contact the National Restaurant Association Show sales team directly at 312-853-2542 or email restaurantshowsales@informa.com.
Other important questions
We’ve covered the most essential questions here, but if you have any further questions, you can visit the show’s FAQs page. This page covers registration rates, health and guidelines, and much more.
What happened at the National Restaurant Association Show 2025?
-1.jpg)
Here’s a quickfire summary of the highlights and key takeaways from the most recent event:
- Kraft Heinz showcased its new ReMix machines, which allow consumers to mix sauces together to create their own signature blends.
- There was an entire section dedicated to emerging THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) brands such as North, Louie Louie, and Wynk.
- The technology section of the expo hall boasted a wide variety of vendors focused on artificial intelligence (AI). These vendors showcased everything from platforms for full location management to order processing.
- Chef, author, and TV host Carla Hall shared her inspiring journey from accountant to renowned chef and TV personality.
- Chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Nyesha Arrington gave a culinary demo.
How to prepare for the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
Helpfully, the National Restaurant Association has included driving directions on its website.
If you wish to park at the venue, it’s recommended to reserve parking in advance with SpotHero. This way, you’ll find and reserve convenient parking and get rates up to 50% off drive-up. Book now and your space is 100% guaranteed.
Click here to download app for iPhone
Click here to download app for Android
For parking-related questions, call (312) 566-7768 for assistance.
How we’ll help you stand out at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
.jpg)
From May 16-19 2026, at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, you’ll have the industry’s top buyers and innovators at your fingertips.
Imagine letting them slip from your grasp because you turned up with an unimaginative, unmemorable trade show booth that didn’t stand out in their minds.
This scenario won’t happen on our watch.
At The Trade Group, we’ve helped businesses like yours bring their products and services to life since 1986.
We don’t just create booths—we create immersive, engaging, storytelling assets that bring your business to life.
With our help, you’ll cook up a storm at the next NRA show (again, pun intended).
Call us today at 800-343-2005 to get the ball rolling.
