Sweets & Snacks Expo Moving to Indianapolis for 2021; Back to Chicago in 2022

November 10, 2020

The National Confectioners Association will move Sweets & Snacks Expo, which has taken place in Chicago every spring in its 23-year history (except for 2020, which was canceled), to Indianapolis next year. As the confectionary and snack industry’s premiere event, the 2021 Sweets & Snacks Expo — which typically features approximately 800 exhibitors and draws 15,000 attendees from 90 countries — will take place June 22-25 at Indiana Convention Center.

Together with the Board of Trustees and the Sweets & Snacks Expo Committee, NCA made this decision to move out of Chicago’s McCormick Place because the state of Illinois and city of Chicago remain under coronavirus-related restrictions that do not permit the convening of trade shows.

The health and safety of exhibitors, attendees, support staff and convention center employees are the No. 1 priority, according to show organizers. The management team behind Sweets & Snacks Expo will closely follow COVID-19 preparedness and evolving safety guidelines developed by Indiana Convention Center, the city of Indianapolis and public health authorities. The Center’s safety plan currently includes:

  • Health department approval and input required for large events
  • Temperature and health screenings
  • Face coverings in common areas and event spaces
  • Built-in 6-ft. physical distancing measures for floor plans, seating areas and crowd management
  • Limited and designated entry and exit doors
  • One-way travel markers in hallways and corridors
  • Additional hand-sanitizing stations
  • 24/7 air circulation and hospital-grade air filters
  • Plexiglass shields at all service areas
  • Modified food service policies, including cashless and touchless point of sale, in subsequent stages (when allowed)
  • Enhanced training on COVID-19 related practices and protocols for all staff

A major highlight of Sweets & Snacks Expo each year is, of course, sampling the many offerings from exhibitors. Next year’s event will be different in that exhibitors must provide packaged samples measuring 2 ounces or less to attendees; more details on sample requirements will be available in December, officials say.

Of note for contractors, union regulations in Indianapolis differ from those in Chicago. Rigging and electrical will be handled by Indiana Convention Center, not by Freeman.

A complete schedule for the 2021 Sweets & Snacks Expo will be available by February 2021, show officials say. As of now, the show is planned to return to McCormick Place May 23-26, 2022.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.