Sweets and Snacks Expo 2026 is officially underway in Las Vegas as one of the candy and snack industry’s largest trade shows opens at Las Vegas Convention Center from May 19-21.
This year marks a major milestone for the event. After more than 25 years in Chicago, the Sweets and Snacks Expo has officially moved to Las Vegas for the first time.
Industry leaders, candy makers, snack brands, retailers, and suppliers from around the world are gathering in Southern Nevada this week to showcase new products, emerging trends, and future innovations in the snack and confectionery business.
Las Vegas Welcomes Major Food Industry Trade Show
The Sweets and Snacks Expo remains one of the largest events in the candy and snack industry.
Thousands of attendees are expected to visit the Las Vegas Convention Center during the three-day event. The expo features hundreds of exhibitors showcasing chocolates, candy, chips, beverages, baked goods, gummies, novelty snacks, and healthier snack alternatives.
Meanwhile, buyers from grocery stores, convenience chains, online retailers, and major national brands are attending meetings and product showcases throughout the week.
Because the event attracts major food industry decision-makers, many companies use the expo to introduce new products before national retail launches.
Expo Highlights New Food Trends
This year’s show floor features a wide range of emerging snack and candy trends.
Many exhibitors are focusing on:
- Better-for-you snacks
- Protein-based products
- International flavors
- Freeze-dried candy
- Limited-edition products
- Social media-inspired snacks
- Sustainable packaging
Meanwhile, several companies are also unveiling products connected to pop culture, gaming, and entertainment partnerships.
Industry experts say younger consumers continue driving many of the trends shaping the snack business.
As a result, brands are focusing heavily on unique flavors, viral marketing, and eye-catching packaging.
Las Vegas Continues Growing as Convention Hub
The move from Chicago to Las Vegas represents a major shift for the expo after more than two decades in the Midwest.
Convention leaders say Las Vegas continues attracting large-scale trade shows because of the city’s hotel inventory, entertainment options, airport access, and convention facilities.
Large business events also generate major economic impact throughout Southern Nevada.
Thousands of convention visitors attending the Sweets and Snacks Expo are expected to support local hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and entertainment venues throughout the week.
Meanwhile, Las Vegas continues expanding its reputation as one of the top convention destinations in the world.
Candy and Snack Industry Keeps Expanding
The global candy and snack business continues growing as brands compete for consumer attention in stores and online.
Companies are increasingly investing in limited-time flavors, influencer partnerships, and seasonal product releases to stand out in crowded retail markets.
At the same time, demand for healthier snack alternatives continues increasing across multiple age groups.
Because social media trends now influence food buying habits more than ever, many companies attending the expo are focusing on visually unique products designed for online audiences.
Sweets and Snacks Expo Brings Energy to Las Vegas
Attendees filled the Las Vegas Convention Center on opening day as exhibitors handed out samples, unveiled new products, and held business meetings across the massive trade show floor.
As the Sweets and Snacks Expo continues through May 21, Las Vegas once again finds itself at the center of one of the food industry’s biggest business gatherings.
📍 Event Information
📍 Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas, NV
📅 Dates:
May 19-21, 2026
🌐 Official Website:
Sweets and Snacks Expo
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