04/21/2026

Outdoor Retailer 2026 Opens Registration, Launches “Make It Yours” Campaign Putting Industry in the Driver’s Seat (4/21/26)

Outdoor Retailer, the platform for connection, learning, and outdoor innovation, officially opened registration for its 2026 show, August 19–21 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Marking a new era for the industry gathering, this year’s event is anchored by an expanded Hosted Buyer program, a reimagined format, and the launch of the “Make It Yours” campaign, focused on connection, education, and discovery of new products. Register here. “Outdoor Retailer is evolving into a deeply collaborative platform, meeting stakeholders where they are and reflecting the industry’s future and its changing consumer,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president, sports and outdoor division for Emerald, Outdoor Retailer’s parent company. “That means opening the door to new voices, new communities, and new ways for brands and retailers to connect in more meaningful, relevant ways.” Make It Yours Campaign With its move to Minneapolis, Outdoor Retailer enters its next phase, focused on emerging brands, founder-led companies, and partnerships across the outdoor ecosystem fueling the future of the outdoor industry. The “Make It Yours” campaign reflects this evolution, inviting the outdoor community to help drive the future of the industry through collaboration, new ideas, and shared experiences. Expanded Hosted Buyer Program Designed to support independent specialty retailers, this enhanced initiative helps reduce financial barriers to attendance. Approved buyers and product developers may receive travel support, including airfare and hotel accommodations, enabling them to focus on building relationships and sourcing new products on the show floor. Qualified retailers can apply for the program here: https://outdoorretailer.com/attend/or-hosted-buyer-program/ Platform Updates for 2026 A key element of this year’s event is the Wild Reach initiative bringing 150 creators on-site to produce live content and engage with exhibitors and attendees. A show floor layout features a mix of established brands and newer entrants. In addition, the show includes Urban Outdoor Experiences, bringing outdoor activities into an urban setting at Theodore Wirth Regional Park, a 740-acre park just west of downtown. Taking place daily from 7:00 to 10:00 a.m. on August 20–21, attendees are invited to personalize their mornings with guided activities around Minneapolis. Organized through the Outdoor Retailer show app, these experiences provide access to outdoor spaces minutes from the Minneapolis Convention Center.