FRLA

Volusia - February Chapter Meeting: Jeep Beach, Bike Week, and 2026 Tourism Trends
2026-02-25 08:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Ocean Center, 101 N Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, 32118, United States
You’re Invited – FRLA Volusia Chapter Meeting: Jeep Beach and Insights on Bike Week & 2026 Tourism Trends

Wednesday, February 25 | 8:00AM-9:00AM Breakfast & Networking | 9:00AM-10:00AM Program
Ocean Center – Meeting Room 201ABC
101 N. Atlantic Ave
Daytona Beach, 32118
Parking is available in the South Parking Lot. Vouchers will be provided at the meeting.
We are excited to welcome Charlene Greer, CEO of Jeep Beach, Inc., who will share insights on Jeep Beach and its impact on the community. Lori Campbell Baker from Daytona Beach CVB will provide an overview of 2026 Tourism Trends, and Janet Kersey from the Daytona Beach Regional Chamber will discuss Bike Week, including its effects on the hospitality industry, planning, and relevant data to help you stay informed and prepared.
This is a fantastic opportunity to network, learn, and stay current on the Volusia Chapter’s latest news and developments!

REGISTER NOW

Google Posts 101: A Virtual Interactive Workshop
2026-02-25 12:00 - 12:30 | Online Webinar
In 2026, fresh and timely content is the key to staying visible on Search. Whether you’re promoting a live performance, highlighting a seasonal offer, or simply sharing what’s happening at your business this weekend, Google Posts are an effective tool for real-time engagement.
Join us for a 30-minute introductory workshop on February 25th 9am PT/ 12pm ET, where we’ll show you how to use the newly updated Google Posts tool to keep your customers in the loop on timely events, offers and updates.
What to expect:

A beginner-friendly breakdown of the Google Posts tool
Best practices for effective posts
Live Build: We’ll create and publish a post together in real-time
Plenty of time for questions during our live Q&A

REGISTER HERE!

Northeast - 17th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-02-25 17:30 - 20:30 | Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, 225 East Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL, 32202, United States
Event registration has closed. For questions, please contact Nicole at nchapman@frla.org

Join the FRLA Northeast Chapter to celebrate the 17th Annual ROSE Awards!
Please join the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Northeast Chapter at the Recognition of Service Excellence (ROSE) Awards as we honor Northeast Florida frontline hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service and keep our industry thriving. These industry champions showcase the region’s commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience!
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
225 E Coastline Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
5:30 PM – 6:15 PM Registration/Cocktail Hour
6:15 PM – 8:30 PM Dinner/Award Program
Dress: Business/Cocktail
COST: Members: $85 per person or $670 per table (8 seats)
Future Members: $100 per person or $775 table (8 seats)
If you wish to pay with a check and receive invoice, please email nchapman@frla.org

Sponsorship Opportunities

Click here to learn more about ROSE Awards and for the nomination information.

Treasure Coast - February Hospitality Networking Event
2026-02-26 17:30 - 19:30 | MartinArts, 80 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, 34994, United States
Mark your calendar for February 26, 2026, and join the FRLA Treasure Coast Chapter for a networking event at Martin Arts, located at the Court House Cultural Center!
Connect with fellow hospitality professionals, share ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This in-person event is a great opportunity to expand your network and learn from others in the industry. Don’t miss this chance to mingle, enjoy great food, and have a fantastic time with like-minded individuals. See you there!
Please Bring Your Business Card for Two Free Drinks (Beer/Wine) & Hors d’oeuvres.

Event Details:
Thursday, February 26, 2026
5:30 – 7:30 PM
Martin Arts @ The Court House Cultural Center
80 SE Ocean Boulevard
Stuart, FL 34994
Event Pricing:
FRLA Members: $25
Future Members: $40

Advanced Registration Required!
REGISTER NOW
Registration Deadline: Monday, February 23, 2026

Sponsored By:

In Partnership With

Forgotten Coast Meet & Greet Luncheon
2026-02-27 11:30 - 13:00 | Red Pirate Family Grill & Oyster Bar, 236 US Highway 98, Eastpoint, United States
The FRLA Forgotten Coast Chapter invites you to join us on Friday, February 27th, for a Meet & Greet! Learn more about partner benefits, FRLA’s engagement within the hospitality community, and reignite connections! Don’t miss these TWO opportunities to connect with your local FRLA chapter. RSVP today and join us on February 27th from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET at Red Pirate Family Grill & Oyster Bar or from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM ET at Tap Root!
Representatives from The Southern Agency, Filta, RevoltTek, and R365 will share details on partner benefits. Foster connections, grow your network, and learn more about the benefits available to your business!

Event Cost:
FREE
RSVP Now

Forgotten Coast Meet & Greet Reception
2026-02-27 17:30 - 19:30 | Tap Root, 212 Monument Avenue, Port St. Joe, United States

Bay - Spring Break Safety & Responsible AI
2026-03-10 11:00 - 12:30 | Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, 16061 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, 32413, United States
Spring Break is almost here! Join the FRLA Bay Chapter for a timely discussion as we host local representatives and industry experts for an overview of Spring Break preparedness and safety. RSVP today for this FREE event and hear from:

Bay County Mayor Stuart Tettemer (with special guest) – Spring Break Safety
Catie Higginbotham, FRLA RCS – Alcohol Risk Management & Responsible Vendor
Veronika Leal, FastPulseAI – Responsible AI

Event Details:
March 10 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show | 16061 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach
Cost: FREE
Click Here to RSVP
RSVP by March 9th

Sponsored by:

Palm Beach - Hospitality Networking Social
2026-03-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Twisted Tuna, 353 S U.S. Rte 1 Bldg R,, Jupiter, 33477, United States
Join FRLA Palm Beach for happy hour & Hors d’oeuvres at our March mixer! Enjoy raffle prizes and networking with top industry leaders from our local hospitality community. Don’t forget to bring your business card for two free drinks and hors d’oeuvres!
Event Details:
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Twisted Tuna | 353 US-1N, Jupiter, FL 33477
Event Pricing:
FRLA Members: $25
Future Members: $35
Advanced Registration is required! Registration deadline: Friday, March 6, 2026

Register Now!

Sponsored by:

For questions call Jodi Cross, 561-410-0035 or jcross@frla.org

Northwest FL - Hospitality Safety & Spring Break Preparedness
2026-03-12 09:30 - 11:30 | The Bay Restaurant, 24215 US Highway 331 S., Santa Rosa Beach, 32459, United States
Join the FRLA Northwest Chapter for an energizing Hospitality Safety & Spring Break Preparedness session! Get practical, county-proven safety protocols for hotels, restaurants, and events. Learn occupancy trends and market insights for Spring Break. Prepare your team with real-world tips to keep guests and staff safe! Featured Speakers:

Chief Deputy Dustin Cosson, Walton County Sheriff’s Office
Amy Wise-Coble, General Manager, Homeowner’s Collection
Special Appearance by: Bruce Craul, author of The Hospitality Advantage — Book signing & autograph opportunity!

Event Details:
Thursday, March 12, 2026
9:30 AM Breakfast & Networking | 10:00 AM Program Start
Registration: FREE to attend! Sign up! Space is Limited!

Don’t miss this must-attend event for hospitality professionals — be ready, be safe, and make
this Spring Break your best-run season yet!
Submit RSVP
Sign up by March 11th
Sponsored by:

Broward - 2026 Board Installation and Hospitality Connect
2026-03-17 17:30 - 19:30 | Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, 999 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33304
You’re Invited!
Join the FRLA Broward Chapter on March 17th for the 2026 Board Installation and Hospitality Connect. Network with your industry colleagues and get to know your 2026 Chapter Board as we discuss the exciting year ahead. Broward County Commissioner Steven Glassman will present the Board installation. You don’t want to miss it! Register Today!

Members: $20
Future Members: $40
Space is limited.

Click Here to Register
Registration Deadline: March 16, 2026

Tabletop $150
* Price includes (1) admission
FRLA Broward Members Only
Purchase a tabletop to display your products,
feature signage, share samples, and get your logo
spotlighted in our event email blast.
Limited spots available—reserve yours today!
Call Rozeta Mahboubi at (954) 270-5814

Unlock the Power of Music For Your Business While Staying Legally Compliant
2026-03-24 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Webinar
BMI presents an engaging, operator-focused session designed to help restaurant owners and operators confidently navigate music licensing. Learn how background and live music are regulated and how music helps set the right tone in your establishment.
Discover smart, practical strategies to stay compliant while simultaneously maximizing the financial benefits of music in your establishment. This session will provide you with actionable insights that can enhance your customer experience and ultimately boost your revenue. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions ensuring you leave with a comprehensive understanding of how to make music work for your business.
Speaker: Jessica Frost, AVP Customer Experience & Engagement, BMI
VIEW RECORDING HERE!

Hillsborough & Pinellas - Hospitality Forward Series: Industry Trends & Insights
2026-03-25 08:30 - 10:30 | The Karol Hotel, 2675 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL, 33762, United States
Hospitality Forward: Industry Trends
Join us for the first meeting series of 2026!
Change is the only constant in the hospitality industry. With guest/patron satisfaction and experience at the core of success, businesses must stay ahead of the trends shaping the industry. The Pinellas & Hillsborough Chapters of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association have assembled a distinguished panel of hospitality experts who will explore key hospitality trends and offer insights to provide leaders with informed ideas on people, technology, and processes. We want to help your business not only adapt, but thrive in 2026 and beyond!
Topics:

What was/is working in 2025/2026
Status of the market
What consumers are drinking
How technology is affecting the industry
Generational behavior shifts
Operational supply chain health and issues

Distinguished Industry Panel

Daniel Murphy, Division of Marketing & Development, Florida Department of Agriculture
Michelle Stencik, Director, Customer Strategic Insights, Coke
David Boothe, Vice President, Republic National Distributing Company
Jeremy Padilla, Region Vice President, Sysco West Florida
Dora Fruman, Head of Client Strategies, Revenue Management Solutions
Steve Jaeger, Director of Portfolio, Republic National Distributing Company

Q&A to follow the panel discussion!

Event Details:
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
8:30 AM – Registration
9:00 – 10:30 AM – Industry Panel and Light Breakfast
The Karol Hotel | 2675 Ulmerton Road Clearwater, FL
$40 – Per Meeting
(or $99 for all 3 meetings)

Register Now!
Registration deadline: 3/24/2026

Sponsorship Opportunities:
$150 – Event Sponsor
(includes corporate signage and two attendees)

Northeast - Annual Women in Hospitality Panel
2026-03-25 09:00 - 10:30 | FL
Join the Northeast Chapter of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association for our annual Women in Hospitality Leadership Panel Discussion. Don’t miss this dynamic panel discussion spotlighting the women shaping the future of Northeast Florida’s restaurant and lodging industry.
Date: March 25, 2026
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Location: Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk, 1515 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL
This engaging conversation will explore leadership, resilience, innovation, and the evolving opportunities for women across hospitality.
Moderator: John Shermetaro, Shermetaro Speaking
Panelists:
• Antonette Palacios, CEO, V Pizza
• Jennifer Morken, Interim General Manager, Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village
• Leila Deitsch, Assistant Director of Human Resources, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
Our discussion will explore:

Breaking barriers and advancing into leadership roles
Building resilient, high-performing teams
Emerging trends shaping the future of hospitality
Mentorship, advocacy, and developing the next generation of leaders

Attendees will gain practical insights, connect with peers and industry executives, and leave inspired to continue elevating hospitality across Northeast Florida.
No cost to attend, but advanced registration is required.
Click Here to RSVP

EscaRosa - Hospitality Appreciation Hour
2026-03-26 17:00 - 18:00 | Alga Beer Company, 2435 N 12th Avenue, Pensacola, 32503, United States
Join the FRLA EscaRosa Chapter for a relaxed hospitality appreciation hour to celebrate the people who keep our industry thriving! Come see how we’ve supported the industry for eight decades. Stick around to enjoy a beer and a slice on us. RSVP and bring a friend!

For 80 years the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association has worked hard to:

Protect your business through grassroots advocacy
Ensure your voice is heard
Keep harmful regulations off your plate so you can focus on running your business

Celebrate with your FRLA EscaRosa Chapter!

Event Details:
Thursday, March 26, 2026
5:00 – 6:00PM
7:00 PM – Bingo!
Alga Beer Company | 2435 N 12th Ave
Click Here to RSVP

Volusia - Legislative Recap, Hurricane Preparedness, and County Updates
2026-04-01 08:00 - 10:00 | Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club, 960 S Williamson Avenue, Daytona Beach, 32114, United States
Join the FRLA Volusia Chapter for an informative session featuring industry and public safety leaders on April 1, 2026, at the Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club. The event will include an overview of the 2026 Florida legislative session and key takeaways for industry professionals. We will also hear from local officials on tourism and economic initiatives, hurricane preparedness, and receive insights into the new rip current simulator designed to strengthen ocean safety education.

Featured Speakers:

Samantha Padgett, Vice President of Government Relations and General Counsel, FRLA
Matt Reinhart, Vice Chair, Volusia County Council (District 2)
Clint Mecham, Director of Emergency Management, Volusia County
Randa Matusiak, Director of Public Protection, Volusia County

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from experts on policy, emergency management, and public safety innovations!
PLUS: 🎉 iPad Giveaway! 1 for $10 or 3 for $20 – Join the FRLA Volusia Chapter by March 27 and receive 1 FREE raffle ticket!
Event Details:
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
8:00AM-9:00AM Breakfast & Networking
9:00AM-10:00AM Program
Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club
960 S Williamson Ave Daytona Beach, FL

RSVP Today!

Spring Board Meeting
2026-04-06 - 2026-04-08 | The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Fernandina Beach, FL, 32034, United States
APRIL 6-8, 2026
THE RITZ-CARLTON, AMELIA ISLAND,FL.
FRLA board members, chapter presidents and representatives, past State chairmen and chairwomen, and at-large directors from large and small national restaurant and hotel chains and top independents gather for committee meetings, legislative updates, and panel discussions.
REGISTRATION

ACCOMODATIONS
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, FL.
4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Amelia Island, FL. 32034
*Room block closed, Friday March 20th. Questions? Please contact Agholston@frla.org.
AGENDA
ACCESS FULL MEETING AGENDA HERE
QUESTIONS? CONTACT:
Ashley Gholston, Director of Industry Relations & Corporate Events- agholston@frla.org
Ashley Jackson, Director of Membership Marketing- ajackson@frla.org

Palm Beach - Hospitality Networking Social
2026-04-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth, FL, 33460, United States
Join the FRLA Palm Beach Chapter on April 15, 2026, at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Enjoy Happy Hour and Hors d’oeuvres! A fun industry networking opportunity you don’t want to miss! Be sure to bring your business card for two free drinks and light bites. Raffle prizes are also in store!
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County
601 Lake Avenue
Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460
Event Registration:
FRLA Members: $25
Future Members: $35

Register Now!
Advanced Registration is required by April 10, 2026!

Sponsored by:

Broward - Hospitality Connect
2026-04-15 17:30 - 19:30 | The Tower Club, 100 SE Third Ave, One Financial Plaza, Regions Bank Bldg, 28th Floor, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33394, United States
Join the FRLA Broward Chapter on April 15th for Hospitality Connect! Mix and mingle with hospitality leaders. Expand your network within the industry. Register today and join us at the Tower Club Fort Lauderdale from 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Space is limited!
Event Cost:
Members: $20
Future Members: $40
Register Now!
Tabletop: $150 (FRLA Broward Members Only)
Showcase your brand front and center: Purchase a tabletop to display your products, feature signage, share samples, and get your logo spotlighted in our event email blast. Price includes (1) admission. Limited spots available! Call Rozeta Mahboubi at (954) 270-5814.

**SOLD OUT** Monroe - 4th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-04-16 | Hawks Cay Resort, 61 Hawks Cay Blvd, Duck Key, FL, 33050, United States
**This event has SOLD OUT**

4th Annual Monroe ROSE Awards
• April 16, 2026 •
Hawks Cay Resort

Join us for the 4th Annual FRLA Monroe ROSE Awards on April 16, 2026 at Hawks Cay Resort! The ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards recognizes Monroe County Florida front line hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service. These industry champions showcase the region’s commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience.

Nominations Have Closed!
Nomination Deadline: March 9, 2026

Individuals must be front-line employees (no management, director, or supervisor positions)
Open to all tourism related businesses in Monroe County
Individuals must work at their place of business for at least 90 days from the nomination deadline.
Individuals should exemplify the following characteristics: dependable, enthusiastic, serve as role models to peers, and committed to customers.
Nominees must be present at the ROSE awards to win.

Central Florida - From Google to Generative: The New Era of Customer Discovery
2026-04-16 11:30 - 13:00 | Orlando World Center Marriott, 8701 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL, United States
Join the FRLA Central Florida Chapter on April 16th for an informative session on utilizing AI within your hospitality business!
Step into the next era of customer discovery with a high-impact seminar built for Central Florida’s hospitality leaders. This session breaks down how search is shifting from “let me Google that” to AI-generated answers, and what that means for your business visibility, bookings, and brand authority. You will leave with practical strategies you can use now, not theory.
What we will cover:

From Google to Generative: Why traditional search is fading and how AI now controls what customers see and choose
How AI Sees Florida Hospitality: What generative engines understand (and misunderstand) about your business and how to influence it
How to Win at GEO (Generative Engine Optimization): Clear steps to position your brand as the answer, not just an option
Real Case Studies with Results: Travel Guide Challenge: Competing for AI visibility in destination content Battle of the Bios: How small wording changes impact AI trust and selection. Hidden Gems Project: How lesser-known venues can outperform big brands in generative results.

Event Details:
Thursday, April 16, 2026
11:30 – 12:00 Registration & Networking
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch & Presentation
Orlando World Center Marriott
8701 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
Register Now!
Registration deadline: April 12, 2026

Lee Chapter - April Luncheon
2026-04-21 11:30 - 13:30 | Lee County School District Offices, 2855 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL, 33966, United States
Join the members of the Lee County FRLA chapter as we highlight and recognize the work of Lee County high school culinary students and students from LARC. Learn about the certified training these students receive to be ready to walk into the workforce. We look forward to Latin inspired cuisine prepared by these same students while hearing about the latest and greatest accomplishments of the District and FRLA.
Speakers:

Jay Johnson – Lee FRLA Chapter President
Angela Katz – LARC Executive Director
Lee County School District Leaders

Event Pricing:
$30 – Members
$40 – Nonmembers
Register Now!
Registration Deadline: April 17, 2026 at 5 PM.

Treasure Coast - April Hospitality Networking Event
2026-04-23 17:00 - 19:00 | American Icon Brewery and Taproom, 1133 19th Pl, Vero Beach, FL, 32960, United States
Happy Hour & Hors d’oeuvres!
The FRLA Treasure Coast invites you to our April Hospitality Networking Event at American Icon Brewery on April 23rd! Grab a brew and make a friend or two – this is your chance to meet local professionals, share ideas, and grow your network in a laid-back atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the fun and opportunities — see you there!
Ready to mix, mingle, and make lasting connections with local industry professionals? Register Today!
Event Details:
Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
5:00-7:00 PM
American Icon Brewery
1133 19th Place
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Members: $25
Future Members: $40
Please Bring Your Business Card for Two Free Drinks (Beer/Wine) & Hors d’oeuvres.
Advanced registration required!
Click Here to Register
Registration Deadline: April 17, 2026

Sponsored By:

Suncoast - Annual Bowling Tournament
2026-04-28 14:00 - 16:00 | Bowlero Gulf Gate, 7221 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, United States
Join the FRLA Suncoast Chapter on April 28th at Bowlero Gulf Gate for the 2nd annual bowling tournament!
Get ready to roll into an unforgettable afternoon and join FRLA’s Suncoast Chapter for its 2nd Annual Bowling Tournament, where the fun is “Strikingly” good! This is the perfect opportunity for team building while mingling with industry peers and colleagues. Indulge with good food, refreshing beverages and get your hands on some fabulous raffle prizes. So, get ready to strike up some fun because there’s absolutely no time to “SPARE”!
Awards
• 1st and 2nd Place
• Team Spirit and Best Team Attire
Raffles throughout the afternoon!
Event Details:
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
2:00 PM – Team Check In
2:30 – 4:00 PM – Tournament Play
Bowlero Gulf Gate
7221 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Tournament Cost
Team of Five: $250
Single Bowler: $75
Spectator: $25
Bowling registration includes:
Shoe rental, ball, two games, unlimited soda and a large pizza for each team and one domestic beer per player.
Register Now!
Registration Deadline: 4/24/26
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Tournament Sponsor: $800
Opening welcome at event, prominent logo on tournament t-shirt, display signage with corporate logo, plus five tournament bowlers.
Lane Sponsor: $350
Display signage at sponsored lane, corporate logo on tournament t-shirt, plus one team of five tournament bowlers.
Raffle item donations are appreciated!!

Ecolab: Guest Satisfaction: From Sleeping to Swimming
2026-04-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Online Webinar
Keep linens bright. Keep water clear. Keep guests coming back.
Wednesday, April 29 at 9:00 am CT/ 10:00 am ET
In hospitality, the details aren’t just details-they’re what guests remember most. From the whiteness and softness of their sheets to the clarity of the water in your pool, every touchpoint shapes the experience that keeps guests coming back (and leaving positive reviews). During this 30-minute webinar, you’ll learn:
How Laundry Quality Impacts Guest Satisfaction

Why soft, fresh linens are one of the top contributors to positive guest reviews.
Simple operational changes and chemistry insights that can help 95% of linens come out clean on the first wash.

How Well Managed Pools Protect Your Brand

The keys to perfect pool performance: circulation, filtration, and chemistry.
What today’s travelers expect when it comes to water clarity, safety, and the overall pool experience.

Our experts will share real-world insights, practical tips, and the science-based approaches leading properties use to elevate guest satisfaction while saving on labor, linen replacement, and pool operational costs.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Hosted by:

Suncoast - 2nd Annual Taste & Toast
2026-05-02 17:00 - 22:00 | Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 US-41, Palmetto, 34221, United States
Join us for the 2nd Annual Taste & Toast Gulf Coast — a flavorful celebration of food, drink, and hospitality that benefits our FRLA Suncoast Chapter Education Initiatives!
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
5:00 PM – VIP; 6:00 PM General Admission

Enjoy an unforgettable day of premier food & drink:
• Tastings from top chefs & local eateries
• 20+ wines, brews, cocktails & mocktails
• Kentucky Derby bourbon tasting and live watch party
• Live entertainment, culinary & beverage awards, and exciting demos!
Community and professional judging!
Event Pricing:
$95 General Admission
$150 VIP
$1,000 Table of 8
Register Now!

Volusia - Travel & Tourism Meeting
2026-05-04 08:00 - 10:30 | Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, 981 N Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, 32118, United States
Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with FRLA Volusia Chapter!
Tourism fuels Florida’s economy and drives our hospitality industry. Hear from regional tourism leaders about visitor trends, marketing strategies, and how your business can align with local campaigns to attract more guests in 2026. Learn how to connect with tourism agencies, leverage resources, and capitalize on the momentum to keep your hotels, restaurants, and attractions thriving.
Panelists:
Cyrus Callum – Daytona Beach International Airport
Lori Campbell Baker – Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Lynn Flanders – Ocean Center
Georgia Turner – West Volusia Tourism Visitor Center
Debbie Meihls – Visit NSB
Janet Kersey – Daytona Beach Regional Chamber
Matt Reinhart – Volusia County
Brenna Dacks – Visit Florida
Event Details:
Monday, May 4, 2026
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
981 N Atlantic Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Event Schedule:
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:30AM Program
Tickets:
Individual Tickets: $45
Tables: $350
Register Now!

Broward - Excellence in Education Breakfast
2026-05-04 08:30 - 10:00 | Renaissance Ft. Lauderdale West, 1230 South Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL, 33324, United States
Join the FRLA Broward Chapter as we celebrate education in hospitality, presenting student scholarships and teacher awards in support of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary programs. For over a decade, our annual fundraisers and events have been instrumental in providing scholarships, curriculum, textbooks, supplies and much more. This year we continue to offer our scholarship dollars to college and university levels of culinary and hospitality students. We believe this will accelerate aspiring graduates to step into the industry in Broward County.
Event Details:
Monday, May 4, 2026
8:30 – 10:00 AM
Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel
1230 S. Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL
Event Tickets:
Members: $55
Future Members: $75
Register Now!
Sponsorships Are Available!
Elevate your brand visibility, promote your business while supporting future industry leader or simply recruit students who strive to become future industry employees, managers, and owners.
Presenting Sponsor: $5,000
Scholarship Sponsor: $2,000
Teacher Award Sponsor: $1,000
Bronze Sponsor: $500

Pinellas & Hillsborough - 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase
2026-05-06 14:30 - 17:30 | Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater, 12600 Roosevelt Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL, 33716, United States
Join the FRLA Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapter on May 6th for the 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase!
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
2:30 PM Showcase – Connect 1 on 1 (speed dating format)
4:00 – 5:30 PM Reception (Paid attendees only)
Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater | 12600 Roosevelt Boulevard N St. Petersburg, FL

Hotels & Restaurants: We are excited to present a unique opportunity for Restaurant and Hotel professionals to connect with FRLA suppliers in an innovative and engaging format. We invite you to join us at the table and participate in a series of concise 4-6 minute meetings. This event is designed to facilitate meaningful exchanges of information and explore exciting opportunities, all while streamlining your experience and reducing calls. Bring along your key department heads to maximize the benefits of one-on-one interactions with suppliers.
Suppliers: Establishing in-person connections is an invaluable opportunity for suppliers to showcase their services directly to the management teams of diverse restaurant and hotel properties. By engaging in focused discussions within a concise 4-6 minute format, suppliers can affectively communicate their unique offerings and foster meaningful relationships. This face-to-face interaction not only paves the way for potential business opportunities but also cultivates a sense of trust and collaboration that is essential in the industry.
Who Should Attend?
Hotels/Restaurants: Owners, and General Managers, Directors of Operations, Purchasing or Procurement and Directors of Marketing or Sales.
Allied Members: Suppliers that provide products and services to hotels, restaurants, tourism, and hospitality partners.
Benefits of the Reverse Showcase:

Make professional contacts in one step
Face-to-face introduction
Fun and fact-paced environment
Cost effective business development
Market awareness for your business

Registrations & Sponsorships:
Must be a FRLA Pinellas or Hillsborough Chapter Member to Attend
Allied Members: $145 per person
Restaurants/Hotels: $40 per person

Gold Sponsors: $800 – Company logo included on all materials with recognition during event and recognition on event screen, welcome at opening of event, registration site, plus (3) admission tickets to event.
Silver Sponsors: $600 – Company logo included on all eblasts, registration site and recognition during event plus (2) admission tickets to event.
Bronze Reception Sponsors: $500 – Company logo on eblasts, registration site and recognition during event plus (2) admission tickets to event.

Click Here to Register!
Registration Deadline: 5/3/2026

Thank you to our Title Sponsor!

Northeast Florida - 2026 Tourism Outlook
2026-05-07 09:00 - 10:30 | Delta Hotels by Marriott Jacksonville Deerwood, 4700 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, 32256, United States
2026 Tourism Outlook: What’s Ahead for Northeast Florida Tourism
Tourism remains one of Florida’s most powerful economic drivers. Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with FRLA at the Northeast Florida Tourism Outlook Panel. Join us on May 7, 2026, and hear from regional tourism leaders on the economic outlook for travel, visitor trends, and the marketing strategies driving leisure, business, and group travel to Northeast Florida in 2026. Learn how visitors are choosing Northeast Florida and what your hospitality business can do to align with current campaigns and initiatives to attract more guests. The discussion will also highlight ways hospitality partners can connect with the local tourism agencies, leverage valuable resources, and capitalize on tourism momentum in the year ahead.
Event Details:
Thursday, May 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Delta Hotels by Marriott Jacksonville Deerwood
4700 Salisbury Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Panelists:
• Paul Beirnes, Amelia Island Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Michael Corrigan, Visit Jacksonville
• Susan Phillips, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau
Moderator:
Brenna Dacks, VISIT FLORIDA

For Florida’s hospitality industry, tourism is the lifeblood of our success. Staying ahead of travel trends and understanding where visitors are coming from is key to keeping our hotels, restaurants, and attractions thriving. Come gain valuable insight into the economic and tourism trends shaping our region in 2026 and learn how we can work together to keep Northeast Florida a top destination for visitors. RSVP Today!

FREE to Register. Click Here to Sign Up!

Sponsored by:

Palm Beach - Networking Hospitality Social for a Cause
2026-05-14 17:00 - 19:00 | Els for Autism Foundation, 18370 Limestone Creek Road, Jupiter, FL, 33458, United States
Join the FRLA Palm Beach Chapter for a special evening of networking for a cause! Experience the powerful work Els for Autism is doing and how the hospitality industry can benefit. Expand your network and make connections with top industry leaders from the hospitality community. Please Bring Your Business Card for Two Free Drinks & Hors d’oeuvres. There will be raffle prizes!
Event Details:
Thursday, May 14, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Els for Autism
18370 Limestone Creek Road
Jupiter, FL 22458
FRLA Members: $25/Future Members $35/Future Members

Click Here to Register!
Advanced Registration is required! Registration deadline, Friday, May 8, 2026
For questions call Jodi Cross, 561-410-0035 or jcross@frla.org

Sponsored by:
