1. Los Angeles Auto Show
After switching to a November date in 2007, last year’s 102nd auto show took to the Los Angeles Convention Center from November 21 to 30, and attracted a record number of world and American debuts, as well as presentations by top auto industry executives.
2. Comic-Con International
This San Diego show sold out in advance for the first time in its 39-year history last year. The show channeled Hollywood, previewing Sony’s Pineapple Express and attracting celebrities including Paris Hilton. The 2009 show will take place from July 23 to 26, with a preview night on July 22.
3. The Women’s Conference
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and First Lady Maria Shriver’s October 2008 conference sold out almost immediately. Held at the Long Beach Convention Center, the event drew 14,000 attendees and presented 70 speakers, including Condoleezza Rice and Warren Buffett.
4. The NAMM Show
The International Music Products Association hosts this annual show, which drew more than 80,000 industry professionals to the Anaheim Convention Center last year and generated nearly $80 million in revenue. The 2009 show is scheduled for January 18 to 21.
5. American Film Market
This 29th annual film market ran from November 5 to 12 at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel and Le Merigot Beach Hotel. The event screened 513 films, including 102 world premieres and 375 market premieres.
6. Los Angeles Boat Show
Produced by the Southern California Marine Association, this annual show displays 1,000-plus boats at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The 2009 show will ran for seven days (instead of the usual nine) from February 7 to 8, and 11 to 15.
7. E3 Media and Business Summit and E For All Expo
The Entertainment Software Association plans to expand the 2009 expo, increasing audience size after downsizing it in 2007. The event will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from June 2 to 4. IDG World Expo will produce the retooled event with the association.
8. California Gift Show
Produced by George Little Management, this biannual trade-only show attracts close to 22,000 retail buyers and 1,200 exhibitors from more than 40 countries. The next show will run from January 16 to 19 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
9. The Los Angeles Times Travel & Adventure Show
Last year’s show was held at the Long Beach Convention Center, where guest speakers included Amazing Race host Phil Keoghan. The 2009 show took to the Los Angeles Convention Center on February 14 and 15. More than 500 exhibitors were on hand.
10. Southern California Home and Garden Show
The 54th annual home and garden show took place last year at the Anaheim Convention Center from August 20 to 24. Produced by Marketplace Events, the show is the largest of its kind in the Western United States.
