FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: If you think you know the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, take another look: Their $340-million-dollar renovation was designed to return this iconic venue to its previous glory. In 2026, ED EXPO attendees will have their opportunity to experience the “new” Rio, as the industry’s only convention lands at this luxurious property on August 23-26.
“As ‘The Strip’ gets more congested — and much more expensive — the Rio is the ideal destination to host the EXPO,” says ED Publisher, Dave Manack, noting that though the Rio is “off the strip,” it’s only a five-minute Uber ride away. “The Rio property is pristine: An entire tower of brand-new suite-like rooms, scores of dining options including the Canteen Food Hall, a gorgeous convention & tradeshow area, and perhaps the most amazing view of Las Vegas available via their rooftop Voodoo Lounge (and brand new ‘High Steaks’ fine dining restaurant). We can’t wait for our attendees to see everything the Rio has to offer.”
The premier event of the Annual ED EXPO — the ED “Honors” Awards Show — will be held on-site at the Rio at the famed Penn & Teller Theater on Tuesday, August 25.
“We realize that many EXPO attendees like to see some of the events on-property, which is why we felt it necessary to keep our marquee event right there at the Rio,” says Manack. “The Penn & Teller Theater is one of the nicest venues in all of Las Vegas, making it a fitting home for the Awards Show in 2026.”
[The renovated Rio pools and cabanas]
Dates, times and venues for the remaining ED EXPO events will be announced in the coming weeks. These events include the EDI Finals, the $10K Bikini Contest, the “Opening” Party on the Monday of EXPO week (expect a Brazilian “Carnival” theme), and the “Closing” Party.
Newly renovated rooms in the Rio’s Ipanema Tower are just $69 per night, with larger suite options also available. Booking information will be available soon (the Rio in Las Vegas is party of the Hyatt family of properties, so your Hyatt points can apply to the Rio).
For the most up-to-date info on the 2026 ED EXPO, please visit the official EXPO website right here!
See much more of the newly renovated Rio right here!
The food court
High Steaks restaurant
The Wine Cellar
The Lapa Lounge: A late-night, on-property meeting place!
The pristine convention area
The Luckely Tavern & Grille
