Gig Fair
October 20, 2026
The IBMA Gig Fair is a rare meet-and-greet opportunity during the busy week of IBMA World of Bluegrass®. This organized networking event connects emerging artists with festival organizers, presenters, and other talent buyers in a structured setting designed to spark new booking relationships.
The Gig Fair serves as a first step in building business connections between artists and event producers. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular industry events during IBMA World of Bluegrass®.
Registration for talent buyers and artists for the 2026 IBMA Gig Fair will open in summer 2026.
How it Works
Each talent buyer hosts a station at the Gig Fair and offers a limited number of short meeting slots with artists in a speed-dating format.
Artists may sign up in advance for individual meeting slots with participating talent buyers. Artists may not sign up for more than one meeting with the same talent buyer.
Meeting slots are first-come, first-served. However, Official Showcase Artists receive a priority access period before general sign-ups open.
Artists are encouraged to bring business cards, one-sheets, and other promotional materials. Full promo kits may be brought and shared with talent buyers upon request.
