International. Prolight + Sound 2026 will be held from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 March. The reduction in duration was also supported by the fair's advisory board, which consists of industry experts and representatives of renowned companies and professional associations. As a key driving force, this body plays a critical role in defining the future of the event.
The aim of the new three-day format is to offer a more focused and high-quality trade fair experience for both exhibitors and visitors. At the same time, the increased concentration in Europe seeks to consolidate Prolight + Sound's position as a central platform of the sector in the heart of the continent.
This year's anniversary edition already laid the foundations for this future path: 36% of the 23,003 visitors came from 108 countries – a clear sign of Prolight + Sound's international relevance. The high affinity of the audience, with a strong focus on technologies for events and entertainment, further underlines the quality of the event.
The intensive exchange with our partners and industry exhibitors is essential for us. Together, we have developed, and will continue to develop, the concept of Prolight + Sound, always with the aim of optimally aligning current needs with emerging opportunities. In doing so, we are responding to the many voices in the industry that continue to express their support for this show. With this repositioning, we want to send a clear message: we listen, we transform, together with the people for whom this trade fair is intended," says Kerstin Horaczek, Vice President Technology Fairs at Messe Frankfurt.
A community. An improved concept.
With its new management, Prolight + Sound consolidates its strengths as a European centre for live events and entertainment, with a primary focus on lighting, audio and theatrical and stage technology. This is complemented by a first-class support programme, carefully selected and with great thematic depth.
In the ProAudio section, the focus is on live sound, AoIP solutions, microphones and recording equipment. The outdoor Live Sound Arena will once again serve as a platform for high-performance PA systems, offering each exhibitor two free demo sessions. The opportunity to present first-class sound systems in such a spacious trade fair environment with a festive atmosphere is unique in Europe.
The ProLight area benefits from new partnerships and close collaboration with leading companies in the lighting sector. A special exhibition, hands-on experiences, presentations and keynote presentations will make the latest advances in professional lighting technology accessible and tangible.
The ProStage section focuses on theatrical and stage technology, scenography, lighting and automation. In close collaboration with educational institutions and industry partners, the section features specialist panels, case studies and workshops addressing topics such as safety and sustainability in the performing arts field.
This offer is complemented by numerous product innovations and new formats in the field of audiovisual and security technology. A truly hands-on trade fair experience.
Key issues on the front line
The support programme and the Prolight + Sound Schools will once again highlight key industry topics in 2026. Sustainability will be the central theme, along with emerging trends and developments in the use of artificial intelligence in event technology, including the integration of AI agents, new tools, and debates on ethics and data privacy. Security will also be a prominent topic, with content addressing event security, data protection and crisis management.
Particular attention will be paid to applications for theatres and performing arts halls, with personalised offers that directly address the specific needs of this target group.
The Prolight + Sound experience focuses on direct interaction with technology and its applications. Numerous complex live demonstrations will make cutting-edge technical solutions immediately accessible. Visitors are also invited to participate in hands-on sessions, where they can test products, experiment and connect directly with experts from manufacturers.
Deep formats and festival atmosphere
Educational formats will be further refined in content and structure in 2026, offering an optimal platform for both young professionals and experienced experts to expand their knowledge, from bilingual panels and introductory lectures to in-depth hands-on workshops led by renowned specialists.
Prolight + Sound 2026 promises a compact and focused trade fair experience, tailored to the needs of the sector. Attendees will be able to enjoy a thematically defined fair, with a unique character and an innovative impulse for the industry.
