NOTE: YOU MUST BE A IAMP MEMBER AND DUES MUST BE UP TO DATE TO SECURE YOUR CONVENTION SPOTS!
ARE YOU A IAMP MEMBER AND YOUR DUES CURRENT?
About the Convention
The Illinois Association of Meat Processors Annual Convention boasts a line-up of educational sessions, hands-on processing demonstrations, a 70+ booth trade show, and social networking opportunities. This annual event is typically held the fourth weekend of February.
Make plans to attend the 2026 IAMP Convention on February 26-28, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza, Springfield, IL. The pre-convention bus tour will kick off the event on Thursday, February 26, with tours at Turasky Meats, Mel-O-Cream Doughnuts, and Jones Meat & Locker. Thursday evening will include registration for the convention and product show along with a Welcome Hospitality event. Friday morning will start with registration for the Product Show, a full line-up of timely, educational sessions, followed by an afternoon at the Trade Show. Plans are underway for a new event on Friday evening at the Crowne Plaza to include a Casino Night for all convention attendees. Saturday morning will bring the IAMP Annual Meeting followed by an AAMP Update, trade show open with lunch, followed by product demos, and the product show awards. Finally, the culmination of the convention will be the banquet with awards, special recognition, and a key note speaker.
Event Summary:
2026 Illinois Association of Meat Processors Annual Convention
State Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
End Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Last Day to Book Hotel with Group Rate: January 31, 2026 (subject to availability)
Convention Location and Hotel Block: Crowne Plaza, Springfield, IL for the rate of $129.00/night plus taxes and fees.
Group Code: E9C (217.529.7777, Option #1 for reservations over the phone)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member to attend the IAMP Convention?
Yes, an IAMP membership is required to participate in the Annual Convention and Trade Show. You are welcome to join online, or by mailing a completed membership form, or in person at the convention.
What is the cost for an Operator Member to attend the Convention?
The plant has a general registration fee ($150 with a discounted early rate offered). Meals and tours are additional costs. (No additional attendee fee per person.)
What is the cost for an Associate Member to attend the Convention?
Each member has a general registration fee ($75 with a discounted early rate offered). Meals and tours are additional costs. (No additional attendee fee per person.)
How do I register for the convention?
You may register electronically by filling out the form below. You may register at the convention, but we prefer you register by the early deadline (Feb. 10) to take advantage of the discounted rates and have your name badges and tickets ready for you at the convention.
May employees attend the convention?
ABSOLUTELY! No additional fees except for meals and workshops.
Are there activities for the kids at the convention?
Yes, the IAMP Convention is a family affair. On Friday at 2 pm the kids judge hot dogs for the Kids Choice Illinois Best Hot Dog. On Saturday afternoon at the Trade Show, the kids have their own Sausage Sculpting contest. In addition, a pizza and swim night is planned on Saturday evening while the “big kids” are at the banquet.
I want to have a booth at the convention, how do I register?
You may register for a Trade show booth by filling out the form below. You may also contact the IAMP office by email at [email protected] to request copies of the registration materials be emailed to you. Registration opens in October of the year before the convention.
