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Exploring Frankfurt City

IMEX is an experience that spills out beyond the show floor into the city—morning runs along the River Main, receptions, rooftop evenings and a community that makes Frankfurt feel like home for a week.

Every spring, Frankfurt becomes the center of the global events industry. And the experience continues long after the show closes each day. From a sunrise run along the River Main to the Gala Dinner and Awards, IMEX Frankfurt is as much about the moments between meetings as the meetings themselves.

For hotel deals, transportation, dining and everything you need to plan your stay, explore the Frankfurt Convention Bureau’s dedicated guide for IMEX participants.

Discover Frankfurt beyond the show

Explore Frankfurt's culture, cuisine and hidden gems with this city guide—from where-to-stay tips to neighborhood walks.

 Frankfurt is World Design Capital 2026—the perfect time to explore the city's creative side while you're here for IMEX.

More IMEX events around the show

Across the city, networking events, meetups and celebrations keep the IMEX energy flowing. Here’s what’s happening during show week.

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Start Wednesday right. Join the IMEXrun.

5km along the River Main—before the show floor opens. A favorite IMEX Frankfurt feature, the IMEXrun brings together participants of all fitness levels for a scenic 5km route along the banks of the River Main—past iconic bridges and skyline views. Whether you sprint, jog or walk, it’s a refreshing way to connect with your peers before everyone gathers at Messe Frankfurt. Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 6:30–8am Meeting point: North side of the River Main near the Holbeinsteg Bridge Free to all IMEX participants. Registration required.

More about the IMEXrun
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The industry celebrates. Join us for the Gala Dinner.

Live music, great food and recognition of excellence across the global events industry.

The IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner and Awards brings our community together to recognize outstanding achievement, reconnect with industry friends and enjoy an evening of celebration.

Expect live music, a formal awards ceremony and the kinds of conversations that unfold when the day's work is done.

The Gala Dinner takes place on Wednesday, May 20

With thanks to our sponsors: Atomic, Encore, Marriot | Sheraton and SongDivision.

More about the Gala Dinner

More to explore around the show

IMEX Frankfurt extends well beyond the show floor — here are the events taking place in the city around the show.

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Association Social

Wind down after Association Focus with dinner, drinks and relaxed networking with your association peers and IMEX friends.

More on Association Social
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SITE NITE Europe

A highlight of show week—an evening of networking, fundraising and celebration for SITE members and the wider incentive travel community. Open to SITE members and industry colleagues. Held on Monday evening, the day before the show.

Learn more about SITE NITE
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CIMclubbing@imex

The legendary CIMclubbing @ IMEX returns. Enjoy dinner, drinks and time with the IMEX community on the terrace at Barkello by Le Panther, followed by a DJ-led night of dancing.

Get tickets
Students at the future leaders forum sitting at a round table

IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum

A dedicated day for hospitality, event and tourism management students exploring careers in the meetings industry—an immersive introduction led by industry experts.

Open to final-year students in relevant degree programs. Limited places.

About the Future Leaders Forum