THE REPOSITIONING
The goal isn’t to reclaim a throne. It’s to earn back trust and open the door for the people who want to write the next chapter.
Outdoor Retailer has been around since 1982. It’s been through highs and lows. Minneapolis is a fresh start — rebuilt around what the industry told us it needed. The most exciting growth right now is coming from founder-led brands and challenger companies. Our August event in Minneapolis is built for exactly that.
A New Home
A city built for the outdoor industry.
Minneapolis wasn’t a random convention pick. It’s a city where outdoor culture is built into everyday life — world-class trail networks, expansive waterways, and an outdoor economy that contributes $13.5 billion to the state every year.
Minneapolis is a city where outdoor culture is part of everyday life. Every morning before the show floor opens, you and your team can get outside — trail runs, bikes, climbing, kayaks on the Mississippi.
Come for the business. Stay for the experience.
$ 13.5 Billion Outdoor Rec Contributes to Minnesota’s Economy
Miles of Urban Trail Within the City
Urban Lakes Accessible by Bike from the Minneapolis Convention Center
Airlines with Direct Fights into Minneapolis
Live Programs
Not concepts. Infrastructure.
Eight months of real investment. Real partners. Real milestones. If it doesn’t deliver, we’ll say so.
AUGUST 19-21, 2026
Three days. The whole industry.
#Make It Yours.
Minneapolis is an open invitation. The people in this room aren’t just attending a trade show — they’re helping build the next version of this industry.
OUTDOOR RETAILER · MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER · AUGUST 19–21, 2026