DHI conNextions - Door & Hardware Institute 2026
Event Date
October 21–22, 2026
Location
Chicago, IL
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryDHI conNextions is billed as the only conference and trade show serving the non-residential door and hardware industry in North America. Organized by the Door & Hardware Institute (DHI), the event brings together door security and safety professionals for two days of education, hands-on training, product demonstrations, and facilitated networking focused on the architectural openings industry.
The 2026 edition takes place October 21-22 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Attendees include contract hardware distributors, architects, code officials and inspectors, manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders in the non-residential construction and building-security space. The exhibit hall showcases industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers presenting the latest doors, hardware, electronic security, and access-control products.
The show is worth attending for its combination of commerce and professional development. It offers more than 20 courses approved for continuing education credit — including AIA Learning Units (with HSW options) and ICC-approved classes — alongside signature networking events such as the Kick-Off Party and the conNextions After Dark Networking Reception. For distributors and stakeholders with purchasing power, it is positioned as the single best place in North America to see new technology and connect face-to-face.
Show Highlights
- Two-day exhibit hall featuring industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers of non-residential doors, hardware, electronic security, and access-control products.
- Continuing education: more than 20 courses approved for credit, including both Elective and HSW options for AIA and ICC, with six AIA HSW-approved courses.
- Keynote session on Thursday, October 22 (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM).
- New Products Showcase — a free opportunity for exhibitors to display their newest innovations, featured in the on-site Show Guide.
- Signature networking events: the Kick-Off Party (Wednesday evening) and the conNextions' After Dark Networking Reception (Thursday evening).
- A la carte education — attendees can add individual sessions ($100) or workshops ($150) if they do not choose the All-Access Pass.
Registration
Registration is completed online through the show's registration portal. Passes are offered in two main types:
- Exhibit Hall Access — admission to the exhibit hall both days (October 21-22) plus the Kick-Off Party and Networking Reception; does not include conference sessions (classes can be added a la carte for $100-$150).
- All-Access Pass — full conference program, exhibit hall access, and the networking events.
Pricing is tiered by registration date. DHI Member All-Access rates run $250 (Super Saver, ends July 5), $275 (Early Bird, July 6-Sept. 6), $325 (Standard, Sept. 7-Oct. 20) and $375 (On-Site). DHI Member Exhibit Hall Only runs $40-$60. Non-Member All-Access runs $350-$475, and Non-Member Exhibit Hall Only runs $50-$70. Non-Exhibiting Manufacturer/Supplier registration is $2,495. A la carte sessions are $100 and workshops $150 (no early pricing). DHI membership discounts are available by contacting the association at 202-367-1134 or membership@dhi.org.
History
DHI conNextions is the annual conference and trade show of the Door & Hardware Institute (DHI), an association serving door security and safety professionals and the companies they represent in the non-residential construction industry. The event moves to a different U.S. city each year: recent editions have been held in New Orleans (Ernest N. Morial Convention Center) and Fort Worth, TX, before the 2026 Chicago edition. Future editions are already scheduled for the Savannah Convention Center in Savannah, Georgia (October 19-20, 2027) and Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada (October 4-5, 2028). The event is produced by IRONMARKETS (formerly AC Business Media).
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is DHI conNextions 2026 taking place?
DHI conNextions 2026 is being held October 21-22, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, located at 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601.
Who should attend DHI conNextions?
The event is designed for door security and safety professionals in the non-residential construction industry, including contract hardware distributors, manufacturers and suppliers, architects, and code officials and inspectors. It is described as the only conference and trade show serving the non-residential door and hardware industry in North America.
How do I register and what does it cost?
Registration is done online through the official show portal. Passes include an Exhibit Hall Access pass and an All-Access Pass; DHI Member All-Access rates range from $250 to $375 depending on when you register, and Non-Member All-Access rates range from $350 to $475, with lower Exhibit-Hall-Only options also available.
Can I earn continuing education credits at the show?
Yes. The 2026 program features more than 20 courses approved for continuing education credit, including both Elective and HSW options recognized by AIA and ICC, with six AIA HSW-approved courses available for architects who need Health, Safety, and Welfare hours.
What networking events are included?
Attendees have access to the Kick-Off Party on Wednesday evening and the conNextions' After Dark Networking Reception on Thursday, along with a keynote session and a New Products Showcase on the trade show floor.
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