IMEX Frankfurt 2026 doesn’t stop when the show floor closes. From hosted receptions and networking nights to wellness challenges and industry meetups, the week is packed with side events that create real opportunities to connect, learn, and make the most of your time in Frankfurt. The Accelevents team rounded up the top events worth knowing about so you can plan your schedule beyond the booth.
Sunday, May 17th
ICCA Association Circle | Sunday - Monday
Association Circle is a two-day workshop hosted by ICCA. It is designed to elevate and upskill the meetings and association community through hands-on lessons that challenge participants to deepen their expertise and advance their knowledge to the next level.
Monday, May 18th
MICE Impact Lounge | 7:15 pm - 11:00 pm
This invitation-only event enters its fourth year and brings together partners and hosted buyers from across the globe at the Palais Frankfurt to kick off IMEX week.
SITE NITE Europe | 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
SITE NITE Europe is an opportunity to connect with the global incentive travel community to ignite conversations, foster new partnerships, and set the stage for a successful week at IMEX, Frankfurt. Join 500 incentive travel professionals from across Europe and beyond at Depot 1899 for an evening of networking, conversation, and celebrations.
Tuesday, May 19th
CEMA Club Study Tour | Tuesday - Thursday
The CEMA Study Tour invites event professionals and industry partners with a keen interest in event strategy to participate in their three-day workshop. Attendees will explore leading event strategies, global experience benchmarks, strategic marketing intelligence, and more.
IMEX Well-Being Challenge | Tuesday - Thursday
Participate in a range of well-being activities and enjoy some healthy competition with your peers. Earn chances to win amazing prizes for reaching Challenge Goals and working your way up the leaderboard.The challenge starts on Tuesday, May 19 at 9:00 am and ends Thursday, May 21 at noon.
CIMclubbing @ IMEX | 7:00 pm
CIMclubbing @ IMEX returns once again to the heart of Frankfurt. Reconnect with old friends and meet new ones from the IMEX community while enjoying dinner, great drinks, and a live DJ on the beautiful terrace at Barkello by Le Panther.
Global DMC Partners’ Cocktail Reception | 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Join Global DMC Partners for an evening of networking and conversation at the Horizon Bar at M Tower which is within walking distance from the IMEX Frankfurt showroom floor.
Accelevents Happy Hour | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Join fellow event professionals and the Accelevents for a relaxing happy hour filled with drinks, food, and networking. More details to come as our team heads to Frankfurt for the first time.
MICE Impact Night | 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Impact night offers a great backdrop to turn the first day of IMEX into an unforgettable experience, with conversations, cuisine, and networking for buyers and suppliers at Kreisler Frankfurt – Place to be.
Wednesday, May 20th
IMEXrun | 6:30 am - 8:00 am
Join your peers for a 5km run along the banks of the river Main early Wednesday morning. Runners will meet on the north bank of the river Main and close at the Holbeinsteg Bridge.
ICCA Networking Reception | 3:00 pm
Join ICCA at Cafe A650, Hall 8 for the chance to meet fellow event leaders, strengthen global connections, and share practical tips for creating unforgettable event experiences.
PCMA Networking Reception | 4:00 pm
Join PCMA for their networking reception on Wednesday and enjoy the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow event professionals while building international connections with attendees.
IMEX Gala Dinner & Awards | TBD
Join IMEX for live music from the band SongDivision, fabulous food, engaging conversation and a celebration of outstanding achievement in the meetings industry.
