Event shows aren’t just back…they’re setting the pace for what’s next. Fresh off being named “Best Meeting or Conference,” the NWES proves that real connection still happens face-to-face. In this article, we break down why attending matters, what you’ll actually gain, and how Compass is showing up big this year. If you’re planning events in 2026, this is one you don’t want to miss.

If 2026 had a headline, it might read:
“The robots are here—but connection still wins.”

At its core, NWES is the premier conference and trade show for event and meeting professionals in the Pacific Northwest. Produced by Butler Events, it transforms the Seattle Convention Center into a vibrant ecosystem where over 2,500 attendees and 200+ exhibitors come together to spark new ideas.

Compass Outdoor Adventures was founded in 2007 with a simple idea: meaningful experiences happen when people step outside together. Nearly two decades later, that idea still guides everything we do — but how we bring it to life has grown and evolved.

Seattle companies are always looking to improve efficiency and performance. While investments in technology and marketing are common, team building is often overlooked. However, investing in team building yields a high return on investment (ROI) in measurable ways.

Compass Connects is our new quarterly event series designed to bring together executive assistants, admins, meeting planners, hospitality partners and event pros for an afternoon of connection, creativity, and hands-on fun. It’s still everything people loved about EA Days — just with a bigger focus on community, collaboration, and experiential discovery.

Embrace the magic of a Pacific Northwest winter! While Snoqualmie Pass is home to incredible skiing, the I-90 corridor just east of North Bend offers some of the most accessible and stunning snowshoeing for all skill levels. Here are three of our favorites, you should check out this winter!

Forget the stress of finding the perfect activity to entertain your guests. Compass Teams has put together winter-themed crafts that are perfect for any holiday gathering.

At Compass, the incorporation of a shared read has brought us unified growth. Discussions on how we can incorporate what we have learned while sharing our continuous learning adds a layer to our professional development and strategic alignment.

In today's AI-driven world, it’s easy to believe a complex algorithm can solve every business problem, including team cohesion. AI is brilliant at drafting emails, analyzing data, and streamlining workflows. It can even give a list of team-building ideas. But here’s the truth…