Enable location services in the PCA app.
Turn on location access in your phone settings to unlock step-by-step navigation on the trade show floor. Finding booths is much easier when the app knows where you are.
Live in the app all weekend.
Use the PCA26 app to review the schedule, floor plan, exhibitor list, education sessions and networking events. Any updates or changes will be pushed via notifications, so you won’t miss a thing. You can download this year’s trade show app here.
Bring backup gear.
Lighters and cutters have a way of disappearing during a busy show. Pack extras so you’re never caught empty-handed.
Kick things off Friday—strategically.
Friday is education day. Attend seminars, learn, smoke, and get oriented before a full evening of networking events.
Reminder: The trade show floor is not open to all attendees on Friday—it opens Saturday, April 18.
Want early access? Consider the PAC.
A $150 donation to the PAC grants early entry to the trade show floor on Saturday and Sunday—a major advantage for seeing key booths and releases first. Make a PAC contribution here to get early access for Saturday and Sunday, April 18-19.
Protect your badge like it’s gold.
Your badge is required for access to the trade show floor, seminars and evening events. Lost badges carry a $150 reprint fee, so keep it on you at all times.
Plan your floor strategy daily.
Hit priority booths and new product launches early, then explore secondary aisles to discover new vendors, limited releases and show-only deals you might otherwise miss.
Use evening events for real connection.
Parties, happy hours and awards receptions are best used to deepen relationships with manufacturers, reps and fellow retailers—not just to collect swag.
Know where smoking is allowed—and follow the rules.
Smoking is permitted only in the General Session Area (Hall F) and the Trade Show Exhibit Floor (Halls G–J). Smoking is prohibited in hallways, foyers, meeting rooms, hotel lobbies, guest rooms and other non-designated areas. Violations can result in a $15,000 fine, removal from the show, and a ban from future PCA events.
Stay aware and look out for one another.
Be mindful of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior to PCA staff or local authorities.
This story first appeared in PCA26 Attendee Guide. To receive a copy of this publication, you must be a current PCA member. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.