CEDIA Expo returns to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from September 1-4, and the excitement is already building across the smart home and AV integration industry. On the latest episode of the D-Tools “What's the Buzz” Podcast, hosts Jason Knott and Tim Bigoness sit down with Jason McGraw, Group Vice President at Emerald, the owners of CEDIA Expo, for an inside look at what integrators, manufacturers and designers can expect at this year's show.
McGraw, a nearly 30-year veteran of the industry, says trade shows still matter in an increasingly digital world.
"We're human beings, and until we're totally plugged in digitally, we crave the five senses and human interaction — that's something you can't get from AI," he explains. That demand for in-person connection, he says, is exactly why attendees continue to come to industry trade shows.
This year's show centers on three pillars: new products, education, and networking. With more than 60 new exhibitors and a full slate of manufacturer training sessions, McGraw encourages attendees not to just stick to the big-name booths.
"You need to make time to go around the back nine," he says, urging integrators to explore the show floor's smaller exhibitors for the kind of serendipitous discovery that sparks new business ideas. He recommends downloading the CEDIA Expo mobile app ahead of time to favorite exhibitors, book meetings through the built-in matchmaking tool, and map out sessions — including the opening keynote from Disney innovation expert Duncan Wardle.
The education lineup is massive, with roughly 200 sessions spanning the CEDIA education conference, manufacturer training, smart stage talks on the show floor, and a dedicated AI Lab presented with IMCCA featuring hands-on demos. Design-build integration, lighting, and AI's growing role in business operations are among the hottest topics this year.
Of course, the show is also about connection and community. D-Tools will be at booth #3723 with its signature Plinko happy hour, and Bigoness is once again drumming and singing in the CE Pro All-Star Band, which performs on Wednesday, Sept. 2 from 89 pm to 11 pm in the Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom on opening night.
Looking ahead, McGraw confirms CEDIA Expo will rotate cities in future years, heading to Las Vegas in 2027 and Orlando after that, with a return to Denver planned down the road. For now, registration is open at cediaexpo.com, where attendees can browse the exhibitor list, book hotels, and download the mobile app.
Attendees can register for the show courtesy of D-Tools for a free CEDIA Expo pass.
Watch the full episode for McGraw's complete rundown on making the most of CEDIA Expo 2026, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and catch every episode of the D-Tools What's the Buzz Podcast.
