FAQs

General questions

What is HPBExpo27?

HPBExpo27 brings together the full spectrum of hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living professionals. Held annually, it’s where business gets done—serving as the industry’s premier marketplace for buyers to discover new products, connect with key players, and find ideas to grow their businesses. Exhibitors showcase the latest in home heating appliances, grills and accessories, outdoor kitchens, casual furniture, and all-weather entertainment for the outdoor room. Attendees also gain access to business services, technology solutions, education, and networking opportunities designed to support business growth and operations. Open to the trade only, HPBExpo is where the industry comes together to move forward.

Who attends HPBExpo27?

HPBExpo27 attracts a wide range of professionals shaping the future of the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industries. Attendees include specialty retailers, mass-market buyers, installing distributors, service professionals (chimney sweeps and installers), builders and remodelers, HVAC contractors, LP and hardware dealers, and other decision-makers seeking innovative products and strategies to stay ahead of consumer demand. Join hundreds of buying companies and thousands of professional individuals at the only event curated specifically for the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industries.

Who exhibits at HPBExpo27, and what products can you expect to see?

HPBExpo27 features manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in North America and worldwide. Expect to see the latest in hearth appliances and accessories, grills and outdoor kitchen setups, patio furniture, spas and water features, outdoor entertainment products, and outdoor room innovations. Business service providers—including software, logistics, and marketing firms—are also on the show floor, helping attendees streamline operations and grow their businesses. Whether you’re sourcing new products or exploring services that support your success, HPBExpo is your one-stop marketplace.

When and where is HPBExpo27?

HPBExpo27 is March 3 – 6 at Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Indoor exhibits are located on the third floor of the building. Outdoor exhibits are located right outside on the Marty Dickens Terrace. March 3 will feature special sessions and functions for HPBA members and attendees; while indoor and outdoor exhibits will be open March 4 – 6.

Registration: March 3 – 6, 2027

Pre-Show Meetings/Functions/Events: March 3, 2027
Exhibits & Expo Education Program: March 4 – 6, 2027

How much does it cost to park at Music City Center?

Up-to-date parking information is available on the Center’s website: https://nashvilledowntown.com/get-around/nashville-parking

Where are future HPBExpo’s being held?

HPBExpo28 will be held in Louisville, Kentucky, February 29 – March 3, 2028. Future locations and dates will be listed closer to their event date. If you would like HPBA to investigate a particular city for future consideration, please contact us with your request.

What are the dates and hours for indoor and outdoor exhibits*?

Thursday, March 4
10 AM – 5 PM

Friday, March 5
 10 AM – 5 PM

Saturday, March 6
10 AM – 1 PM

*Trade show/exhibit and/or event hours are subject to change.

Indoor exhibits are located on the third floor of the Music City Center, while outdoor exhibits are located just outside on the Marty Dickens Terrace.

Are children permitted to attend the show?

In accordance with Trade Show Rules and Regulations and security measures, children under the age of 12, including infants, are prohibited from entering the Exhibit Hall, Outdoor Burn Exhibit area, and events at any time. There will be no exceptions to this rule. Children 12 and older must have a badge to enter the Exhibit Hall, Outdoor Burn Exhibit area, and events. Badge(s) can be added or purchased online through badge registration or onsite registration.

Can I take pictures of exhibits?

Cameras will be allowed on the show floor, but no picture taking, including cell phone pictures, is allowed without the express approval of a company representative in the exhibitor booth that is being photographed.

Can I hold a meeting or event in conjunction with HPBExpo27?

HPBA uses a formal process for reviewing requests for these types of meetings to protect HPBExpo27 from any activities that detract from the industries’ premier annual event, or that could undermine the investment made by its exhibitors, sponsors, attendees, and other stakeholders. Review our Ancillary Meeting & Event Policy and steps on how to submit a request.

Can I rent a Scooter or Wheelchair for HPBExpo27?

Yes, please contact Scootaround for mobility services.

Attendee questions

When does badge Pre-Registration open?

Pre-Registration will open online at www.hpbexpo.com no later than September 1, 2026.

How do I register individuals for my company? When do we get our badges?

Attendees can register company personnel online at www.hpbexpo.com when registration opens (no later than September 1, 2026). All pre-registered individuals must pick up badges onsite. Onsite badge registration will also be available in Nashville. Attendees are encouraged to register early for the best badge rate.

Can anyone register for HPBExpo27?

HPBExpo27 is open to trade only. Your company must be in the hearth, barbecue, or outdoor living industry. Examples of qualified attendees include industry dealers/retailers, service companies (chimney sweeps/installers), distributors, independent sales reps, mass merchants, designers, remodelers, builders, landscapers, and architects. Suppliers, manufacturers, and providers of business services companies (associate members and non-members) are eligible for Exhibitor or Sponsor badges only and cannot register as Attendees.

Suitcasing and Outboarding Policy: As the premier marketplace for the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industry, HPBExpo is committed to providing all participants a fair and inclusive environment. We urge our sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees to comply with our Suitcasing & Outboarding policy, which is not only an HPBA policy, but also a standard recognized by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events. This policy will be strictly enforced.

What does it cost to attend?

HPBA Affiliate Members may be eligible for an allotment of complimentary badges based on their membership category. Additional member badges will be available for purchase at discounted rates. Qualified non-member companies can register at the non-member badge rate. Complete badge pricing for HPBExpo27 will be available on the Attendee Badge Registration page no later than September 1.

When is the badge Pre-Registration deadline?

Onsite registration will open on Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 AM Central Time; however, both online and onsite registration will remain open until 12 PM Central Time on Saturday, March 6, 2027.

When is the refund/cancellation deadline?

Refunds for Expo badge registration, paid education courses, and paid meetings and events, less a $10 administrative fee, will be made if the request is received in writing by January 22, 2027. No refunds will be made after that date. To request a refund, please email registration@hpba.org. HPBA will not accept a cancellation/refund request over the phone. All refunds will be processed within 60 days after the conclusion of Expo. No refunds for Expo badge registration, paid education courses, or paid meetings and events will be made for payments received onsite.

When does onsite registration open for attendee Badge Pick-Up?

Badge Pick-Up will open for Exhibitors and Attendees on Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 AM Central Time, and remain open until 12 PM Central Time on Saturday, March 6.

How do I check the status of my registration?

Your registration status can be checked online by going to the special link located in the email confirmation you received after registering.  You may also email registration@hpba.org.

How can I make changes or additions, if I have already registered?

Changes and additions can be made online by going to the special link located in the email confirmation you received after registering. You may also email registration@hpba.org.

Education & Certification Questions

How many CEUs will I earn at HPBExpo27 for NFI and CSIA Certifications?

If you are NFI or CSIA certified (or both), you can earn CEUs by attending HPBExpo27’s free show floor education sessions. Be sure to have your badge scanned at each session to receive credit. The number of CEUs earned will depend on the specific sessions you attend and the number of sessions completed.

I’d like to present a program at an upcoming HPBExpo. How do I go about submitting my request?

Speaker proposals can be submitted at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HPBExpo27-Call-for-Presentations. Please contact us at expo@hpba.org with any questions about future program opportunities.

How can I register for education sessions at HPBExpo?

Education sessions will be free for attendees and are included in your HPBExpo registration, unless otherwise noted within the registration process. The HPBExpo27 Education Program will take place exclusively on the trade show floor starting on Thursday, March 4.

Please note this does not include NFI or CSIA certification review courses. Sign up and purchase an NFI Certification Review Course or Exam and select HPBExpo as your Review Location; call CSIA at 317-837-5362 to register for CSIA certification.

Do I need to register separately for each education session?

Aside from specially marked courses with a separate materials fee or Certification programs, you do not need to indicate each session you are interested in.

I’m taking a certification test and some classes. If I pass the test will those courses count for CEUs?

Yes, if you are successful in passing the examination, you will receive CEU credit for any courses you attended.

Does the education program offer CEU credits?

All education sessions at HPBExpo27 qualify for both NFI and CSIA CEUs.

Will all the Expo sessions be available online?

HPBExpo27 education sessions are exclusive to HPBExpo27. Unless otherwise noted, onsite sessions will not be available online.

Hotel & Travel Questions

Where can I find a list of hotels and rates?

Reservations for hotels in the HPBExpo27 housing block will be available through our official housing partner. Hotel reservations are currently being accepted until February 1, 2027. More information can be found at Attendee Hotel & Travel or Exhibitor Hotel & Travel.  

How can I make changes or cancellations to my hotel reservations?

Reservation changes and cancellations can be made online by emailing registration@hpba.org until February 1, 2027. After February 1, 2027, please contact your hotel directly.

How do I get to the Music City Center?

All properties within the official HPBExpo27 hotel block are within walking distance to the Music City Center. Available city transportation includes Uber, Lyft, and taxi services.

Where can I find additional information about Travel? Restaurants? Things to Do?

Experience Nashville by taking part in events, arts & culture, shopping, sports & outdoor activities, tours and much more. Visit the Nashville Information site for restaurants, events, discounts, and things to do while in Nashville.

Exhibitor Questions

What does it cost to exhibit at HPBExpo27?

EXHIBIT SPACE FEES:

A. Non-Member Category

(Companies that are not HPBA members in good standing at the time of space selection and throughout the event.)

1. Priority Rate: $42 per sq. ft. (inline) / $44 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

2. Early Bird Rate: $45 per sq. ft. (inline) / $47 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

3. Standard Rate: $48 per sq. ft. (inline) / $50 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

4. Late Entry Rate: $52 per sq. ft. (inline) / $54 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

B. HPBA Member Category

(HPBA Members in good standing at the time of space selection and throughout the event.)

1. Priority Rate: $32 per sq. ft. (inline) / $34 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

2. Early Bird Rate: $35 per sq. ft. (inline) / $37 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

3. Standard Rate: $38 per sq. ft. (inline) / $40 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

4.  Late Entry Rate: $42 per sq. ft. (inline) / $44 per sq. ft. (corner/outdoor)

C. Rate Periods

1. Priority Rates available through March 21, 2026.

2. Early Bird Rates available March 22, 2026 – September 30, 2026.

3. Standard Rates available October 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027.

4. Late Entry Rates apply beginning January 16, 2027.

D. Space Configuration Pricing

1. Inline booths (standard booths open to an aisle on the front side only, with adjacent booths on both sides) are billed at the inline rate in 100 sq. ft. increments.

2. Corner booths (booths with aisle exposure on two sides) are billed at the published corner rate for each 100 sq. ft. increment located on a corner as designated on the official floor plan.

3. All outdoor exhibit space is billed at the higher published rate, regardless of configuration.

4. Island booths (booths with aisle exposure on four sides) will have the first 400 sq. ft. billed at the corner rate. Any remaining square footage will be billed at the inline rate.

5. HPBA Show Management reserves the right to determine final booth configuration classification and applicable billing based on the approved floor plan.

What does the cost of exhibit space provide?

The exhibit space fee covers the floor space for your exhibit. Linear booths will be set with an 8’ high back drape, 3’ high side dividers, and a black and white identification sign with company name and booth number. Booths over 300 sq. ft. are not automatically set with signage; however, signage is available upon request onsite at the Exhibitor Service Desk. Any carpeting, furniture, utilities, etc., is ordered separately through the official show decorator/general contractor, convention center, or approved vendor. Material handling fees for shipments arriving at the advanced warehouse or show site are not included in the exhibit space fee and will be billed by the show decorator to individual exhibitors onsite.

Am I allowed to share exhibit space with another company?

No. According to the HPBExpo27 Rules & Regulations, Section 5, “Subletting of Space Prohibited – Exhibitors are not permitted to assign or sublet a booth or any part of the space allotted to them, nor shall they exhibit, or permit to be exhibited in their space, any merchandise or advertising materials that are not part of their company’s regular product lines.”

Does exhibitor staff need to register for badges?

Yes, all exhibitor company staff and family must have a badge. Exhibit space applications/contracts and payments must be processed prior to exhibitor badge registration.

How do I register my staff? When do we get our badges?

Exhibitors can pre-register staff for badges online in late summer, 2026 (date TBD). All pre-registered exhibitors must pick up badges onsite.  Onsite badge registration will also be available in Nashville. Exhibitors are encouraged to register early for the best badge price.

When does onsite registration open for exhibitor Badge Pick-Up?

Badge Pick-Up will open for Exhibitors on Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 AM Central Time. Prior to this date and time, you will need to check in with onsite security for a wristband which allows personnel entry into the exhibit hall for set-up. Exhibitors must have proper company identification to obtain a wristband.

What Sponsorship opportunities are available?

Sponsorship package options will be available in the Sponsors section of the expo website. For more information contact sponsors@hpba.org to make your brand stand out.

When is the Exhibitor Service Manual (ESM) published?

The Exhibitor Service Manual will be available online in the Exhibit section by October 1, 2026.

What is the New Product Pavilion and how does my company submit an entry?

Located on the show floor, the New Product Pavilion showcases new and exciting products and is a draw for attendees. Details and an online entry form will be available at www.hpbexpo.com in the fall within the Exhibit tab.

Products must be introduced to the market after HPBExpo26. Companies must be an HPBExpo27 exhibitor to be eligible for New Product Pavilion entry. Each product displayed in the New Product Pavilion will be an eligible entry for the 2027 Attendees’ Choice Awards (in the hearth, barbecue, or outdoor living category).

Who is the official Show Decorator/General Contractor?

Freeman is the official show decorator/general contractor for HPBExpo27. Check the online Exhibitor Service Manual, available in October 2026, for links to order products and services from Freeman, the convention center, and other approved vendors.

What are the 2027 Material Handling Rates?

All advanced shipments received at the Freeman warehouse as well as all shipments received onsite or driven to the convention center will incur a material handling fee by the official general contractor, Freeman. Exhibit materials that can be hand-carried in one trip from a legally parked vehicle by the exhibitor will not incur material handling fees. Dollies, hand trucks, or other means of wheeled transport are not permitted for hand-carry. Cars, Mini-Vans, Small Pick-Up Trucks, Full-Size Vans, and Large Pick-Up trucks requiring use of the dock area will be unloaded by Freeman for per-vehicle-load fee. Vehicles larger than a large pick-up truck, including those with trailers will be unloaded at the main dock at the published per hundred weight rates.

The 2027 material handling fee schedule can be reviewed in the online Exhibitor Service Manual – available in October 2026.