American Fire Sprinkler Association - AFSA 2026
Event Date
September 27–30, 2026
Location
San Antonio, TX
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe AFSA Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition is the annual gathering of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), and its 2026 edition — AFSA45 — takes place September 27-30 in San Antonio, Texas. The American Fire Sprinkler Association is a non-profit trade association whose membership includes fire sprinkler contractors and designers, manufacturers and suppliers of fire sprinkler products, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction.
Each fall, AFSA hosts an annual convention and exhibition to introduce the latest technology in the fire sprinkler industry, including a yearly apprentice competition, educational seminars, networking, and social events. The event bills itself as the largest fire sprinkler event in North America.
The convention draws contractors, designers, manufacturers, suppliers, and authorities having jurisdiction. As an exhibitor, advertiser, or sponsor, you get four days with almost 1,500 decision makers, contractor companies, and fire sprinkler professionals attending the convention. With dozens of seminar options, continuing-education credits, a national apprentice competition, and multiple networking events, it is a valuable stop for anyone in the fire protection trade.
Show Highlights
Key features of AFSA45 include:
- 78 seminar options across four days, delivered by industry-leading experts offering training and real-world insight.
- 15.5 CE credits available to attendees.
- National Apprentice Competition — seven apprentices from across the country compete during the Exhibition, and attendees can watch the competition from beginning to end.
- Exhibition Grand Opening Reception and unopposed exhibit hours designed to maximize time between exhibitors and customers.
- Signature social events, including an Opening Party at the River View Pavilion & Lawn (Sun 9/27) and an Awards Party at Knibbe Ranch (Wed 9/30).
- Multiple networking meals — three continental breakfasts and three hot lunches at the headquarter hotel.
Attendance
The official site indicates that almost 1,500 decision makers, contractor companies, and fire sprinkler professionals attend the convention. The audience is drawn from fire sprinkler contractors and designers, manufacturers and suppliers of fire sprinkler products, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction.
Booth Pricing
Booth space is sold as a standard 10 ft. x 10 ft. booth (26 ft. ceiling height), each including 1 all-access badge and 2 booth-personnel badges. Early pricing (on or before 4/25/2026) is $3,985 for members and $11,955 for non-members; late pricing (after 4/25/2026) is $4,515 for members and $13,514 for non-members.
Note: chairs, tables, and extra carpet are NOT included in the booth price, and all amenities can be ordered through AFSA's official service contractor, VIPER Tradeshow Services. Some sponsorship packages also include booth space.
Registration
Registration is handled online through the event's EventsAir platform, with separate paths for members and non-members. Registration steps:
- Choose Member Registration or Non-Member Registration from the event website.
- Complete the online registration form and payment.
- Book lodging separately through the headquarter hotel link.
Exhibitors and sponsors register via the Booth & Sponsor Sales section. Exhibit space is reserved by requesting an invitation from AFSA (convention@firesprinkler.org). Booth selection begins 5/4/26 on a priority basis according to sponsorship level and AFSA's exhibitor point system, and after 5/25/26 booths are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. A registration scholarship is available for first-time attendees.
History
The 2026 event is designated AFSA45, indicating the 45th annual convention of the American Fire Sprinkler Association. Each fall, AFSA hosts an annual convention and exhibition to introduce the latest technology in the fire sprinkler industry, along with a yearly apprentice competition, educational seminars, networking, and social events. Upcoming editions are already scheduled: 2027 in San Diego, CA (Manchester Grand Hyatt, September 7-11), 2028 in Orlando, FL (Rosen Shingle Creek, October 9-12), and 2029 in Las Vegas, NV (October 22-25).
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is AFSA45 taking place?
AFSA45 takes place September 27-30, 2026, at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, located at 23808 Resort Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78261.
Who should attend the AFSA convention?
The convention is designed for fire sprinkler contractors and designers, manufacturers and suppliers of fire sprinkler products, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction. It draws nearly 1,500 industry decision makers and professionals.
What educational opportunities are offered?
AFSA45 offers 78 seminar options delivered by industry-leading experts, with a total of 15.5 continuing-education (CE) credits available to attendees.
How do I register for AFSA45?
Registration is completed online through the event website, with separate Member and Non-Member registration paths. A registration scholarship is also available for first-time attendees.
How much does an exhibit booth cost?
A standard 10 ft. x 10 ft. booth costs $3,985 for members and $11,955 for non-members at the early rate (on or before 4/25/2026), rising to $4,515 for members and $13,514 for non-members after that date. Each booth includes one all-access badge and two booth-personnel badges; furnishings are not included.
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