Parties & Nightlife


Opening Party on the Show Floor

Sunday, October 26 • 9:00pm - 11:00pm

Our show floor is overflowing with Lone Star charm on Sunday night as we present our version of the famous State Fair of Texas! This larger-than-a-ten-gallon-hat celebration promises to be anything but ordinary—enjoy popcorn and cotton candy, our customary open bar, carnival games like Ring Toss and Plinko, and maybe even try your luck on a mechanical bull or two. It’s a chance to unwind, connect with vendors and fellow attendees, and treat yourself to a little Texan flair under the convention center lights—boots optional, but highly encouraged.

Opening Party Texas State Fair Sponsored by

Closing Party at Glass Cactus

Tuesday, October 28 • 9:30pm-12:00am

Happy trails, partner! It’s a wrap on Tuesday night we head to the Glass Cactus—the Gaylord Texan’s stunning lakeside venue that knows how to throw a proper party—for our grand finale. With its spacious outdoor terrace and unbeatable sunset views over Lake Grapevine, this is where business winds down and the celebration jumps into high gear. Attendees can kick back with a cocktail (or two) from our open bar, soak in the live blend of country and rock music from the Red Wine Band, and hit the dance floor for one last evening of high-energy fun and laid-back networking. Whether you're there for the rhythm, the dancing, or just a well-earned farewell with your fellow peers, we send you home in Big Tex style.

Glass Cactus at Gaylord Texan