New York City, December 1, 2025 - Attendee registration is now open for LEDucation 2026, taking place April 14-15 at the New York Hilton Midtown. The 2026 event marks the 20th anniversary of LEDucation, recognized as one of the most influential and widely attended gatherings in the North American lighting industry. This year's program will feature more than 400 exhibitors across four exhibit halls and 40 accredited presentations - virtually and in-person - covering the latest advancements in lighting design, research, sustainability, technology, and more.

"Reaching our 20th year is an incredible milestone for LEDucation," said LEDucation Co-Chair and Co-Founder, Burt Grant of Metro Area Sales. "I've had the privilege of watching this show evolve from the very beginning. It's a testament to the passion and commitment of the lighting community. We are proud to celebrate this anniversary by continuing to expand and offer opportunities for industry connection, education, and innovation."

Lighting the Path Forward: LEDucation Gives Back to the Industry
LEDucation is a nonprofit event, and its proceeds directly support the Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY). Funds generated from the show help fuel DLFNY scholarships and ongoing educational initiatives - empowering the next generation of lighting professionals and strengthening the future of the industry.

LEDucation Designer Hours Debut in 2026
On Tuesday, April 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., LEDucation will debut "Designer Hours" providing lighting designers, architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and engineers with exclusive priority access to the Exhibition Halls. This new feature reflects LEDucation's ongoing commitment to enhancing the designer experience with a dedicated window for those who want to begin their day with focused conversations and meaningful engagement with exhibitors - before the Exhibition Hours open for all attendees at 11:30 a.m.

"Each year, we look for ways to strengthen the impact that makes LEDucation such an essential event for our industry," said LEDucation Co-Chair, Jamie Eck of Satco. "With input from the design community, Designer Hours quickly stood out as a meaningful addition. It gives designers uninterrupted priority time to kick off the show with in-depth conversations with exhibitors - fueling ideas and collaborations that advance our community."

 
Conference Highlights for LEDucation 2026
The 2026 Conference Program will feature more than 40 accredited presentations led by experts across design, research, sustainability, energy efficiency, codes, controls, emerging technologies, and much more. Virtual sessions will be offered April 9-10, providing an early opportunity to participate in select educational content ahead of the in-person event.

With a comprehensive lineup of speakers, workshops, and sessions across the full program, attendees are encouraged to visit leducation.org/2026-presentations for the complete schedule and detailed presenter bios.

2026 IESNYC Student Lighting Competition
LEDucation attendees are invited to experience the 2026 IES New York City Section (IESNYC) Student Lighting Competition, presented by LEDucation in the Trianon Ballroom. Student projects will be on display throughout both days of the show, interpreting the 2026 theme "Everything Old Is New Again."

More than a competition, this initiative reflects LEDucation's ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of lighting professionals and connecting emerging designers with industry leaders. The awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday, April 14 at 5:00 PM, free of charge for all attendees.

2026 LEDucation Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2026 LEDucation Trade Show and Conference. Companies can enhance brand visibility and engage directly with thousands of lighting professionals.

For a complete list of sponsorship opportunities, visit: leducation.org/sponsorship

2026 LEDucation Program Schedule
Virtual Sessions
• Thursday, April 9 Virtual Conference Sessions
• Friday, April 10 Virtual Conference Sessions

In-Person Exhibition & Conference
Tuesday, April 14
• 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Designer Hours (Designers Only) and Conference Sessions
• 11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Exhibition and Conference Sessions
Wednesday, April 15
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Exhibition and Conference Sessions

Register for LEDucation 2026
To register and explore the full program offerings, visit: leducation.org/registration