In Indianapolis October is known for reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves transition with fall color. For the tourism community, October is all about blue. In particular, the arrival of corduroy blue jackets as the National FFA Convention & Expo converges on downtown. The convention brings together students from across the country who are pioneering the future of agriculture in our country. For these young adults, the opportunity to attend the national convention to learn and bond with like-minded peers is a treasured experience.
Like most everything, 2020 was a lost year for FFA attendees. While there was some online engagement, there is no substitute for connecting and building relationship in person. From concerts to an expo hall full of future employers to the simple act of sharing a meal, the power of face-to-face meeting was lost. So, it was no surprise this group was excited to gather in 2021 and make up for lost time.
Indy proudly welcomed 55,000 FFA attendees for a powerful week of reconnecting and healing. In December, 60,000 attendees will fill the Indiana Convention Center for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show. In January, 100,000 fans will pack the city for four days in the leadup to the College Football Playoff at Lucas Oil Stadium. For a city know for Hoosier Hospitality this marks a refreshing return to normalcy. While guest safety is still paramount, the precautions being taken alongside a global decrease in COVID-19 cases is allowing citywide conventions and events to return safely.
Visit Indy is grateful to our new guests and old friends for returning. We’re thankful for the hospitality community that rose to the occasion. The future is bright and together we are bringing meetings back to center stage.
Contact us today to find your space.