Germany - The long-established Prolight + Sound trade fair/convention in Frankfurt is entering 2026 with a refined concept. At the heart of this realignment is a streamlined three-day format and a sharpened focus on the European market.
Following a comprehensive survey of exhibitors, Prolight + Sound 2026 will take place from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 March. The streamlined duration was also endorsed by the show’s advisory board, which comprises industry experts and representatives of renowned companies and professional associations. As a key driving force, this body plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the event.
The goal of the new three-day format is to deliver “a more focused and high-quality trade fair experience for both exhibitors and visitors”. At the same time, the increased concentration on Europe aims to reinforce Prolight + Sound’s position as “the central industry platform at the heart of the continent”.
This year's anniversary edition has already laid the foundation for this future-oriented path: 36% of the 23,003 visitors came from 108 countries – a clear signal of the international relevance of Prolight + Sound, say the organisers.
“The intense exchange with our industry partners and exhibitors is an essential compass for us. Together, we have developed – and will continue to develop – the concept of Prolight + Sound, always with the aim of optimally aligning current needs with emerging opportunities,” says Kerstin Horaczek, vice-president technology shows at Messe Frankfurt. “We are thereby responding to the many voices in the industry that continue to affirm their support for this show. With this repositioning, we want to send a clear message: We are listening, we are shaping – side by side with the people this trade fair is made for.”
With its new direction, Prolight + Sound is “systematically building on its strengths – as the European hub for the live event and entertainment community, with a core focus on lighting, audio, and theatre and stage technology, complemented by an expertly curated supporting programme with strong thematic depth”.
In the ProAudio section, the spotlight is on live sound, AoIP solutions, microphones, and recording equipment. The outdoor Live Sound Arena will once again serve as a platform for high-performance PA systems, offering exhibitors two complimentary demo slots each.
The ProLight area benefits from new partnerships and close cooperation with leading players in the lighting segment. A curated special exhibition, hands-on experiences, showcases, and keynote presentations will make the latest developments in professional lighting technology accessible and tangible.
The ProStage section focuses on theatre and stage technology, scenography, lighting, and automation. In close collaboration with educational institutions and industry partners, the section features specialist panels, case studies, and workshops that address topics such as safety and sustainability in the stage context.
The supporting programme and Prolight + Sound Colleges will once again in 2026 spotlight key industry topics. Sustainability will take centre stage, alongside emerging trends and developments in the use of artificial intelligence in event technology – including the integration of AI agents, new tools, and discussions on ethics and data privacy. Security will also be a prominent theme, with content addressing event safety, data protection, and crisis management.
A particular focus will be placed on applications for theatres and performing arts venues, with tailored offerings that directly address the specific needs of this target group.
“Prolight + Sound 2026 promises a compact, focused trade fair experience – tailored to the needs of the sector. Attendees can expect a thematically sharpened show with a unique event character and forward-looking impulses for the industry.”
