Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association Events Newswire

WHLA Conference Auctions 10/29/2026 - 11/2/2026

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 17:35:19 GMT

2026 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show 11/1/2026 6:00 PM - 11/3/2026 11:45 AM

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:53:40 GMT

Check in. Level up at Wisconsin’s premier hospitality conference.

Join Wisconsin's top hotel owners, general managers, and lodging professionals. This immersive event delivers high-impact education, strategic networking, and innovative solutions to elevate your daily operations and guest experience.

Check In to Expert Insights

Prepare to dive into compelling, curated sessions designed to help you Level Up your property's guest experience, operational efficiency, and bottom line. Our keynote lineup features industry-leading voices ready to tackle your toughest challenges:

• Attracting and Retaining Talent: Move beyond the generational divide. Learn how to leverage the unique strengths of Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z to build a resilient, high-performing culture.

• Straight Talk on Industry Realities: Get the unvarnished truth on the issues that matter most, from rising operational costs to the latest AHLA advocacy updates.

• Engagement in a Distracted World: Master the behavioral science behind guest loyalty. Discover how to cut through the digital noise and foster genuine, lasting connections with your guests.

• The ROI of Human Connection: Explore how investing in your people directly impacts your bottom line, elevates the guest experience, and drives consistent, repeat business.

Customize Your Experience

Beyond the main stage, tailor your learning with our specialized breakout sessions. Choose your path and gain actionable tools through three dedicated tracks:

• Check In to Leadership. Level Up Your Team: Focused on the human element of hospitality, covering culture, talent retention, and management consistency.

• Check In to Revenue. Level Up Results: Dedicated to your property's bottom line, exploring profit optimization, pricing strategies, and data-driven sales.

• Check In to Innovation. Level Up Your Property: Built for forward-thinking operators to discover practical automation, AI HR pipelines, evolving technology, and legal safeguards.

Level Up Your Network

Expand your network and build lasting relationships with hospitality peers, industry leaders, and vendors over three days filled with activities including:

• Opening Reception: Kick off with high-energy mingling.

• Board Chair's Reception: Connect with WHLA leadership and top hoteliers.

• Wisconsin Lodging Trade Show: Meet 80+ vendors and service providers.

• Awards Dinner & Live Auction: Celebrate industry leaders and support the community.

• Women in Lodging Social: Foster meaningful connections and mentorship.

Secure Your Spot

• Event Registration: Register early to secure the best rates! Log in with your WHLA credentials for member pricing.
Register Now!

• Student Passes: Eligible students can attend the conference at no cost.
Explore the Student Conference Experience

Accomodations

Secure your room at the Kalahari Resort - Wisconsin Dells for a discounted rate of $129/night.

Discounted rates are available from October 31 - November 3 when you book through the WHLA booking link.

Exhibitor + Sponsorship Opportunities

Gain direct access to key decision-makers actively seeking innovative solutions. Secure a high-traffic booth, become a top-tier sponsor, or host a highly visible activation (like our new DJ or Badge Flair Station) to maximize your brand's reach.

Registration Details

Registration is confirmed once full payment is received.

Cancellations received on or before October 15 are eligible for a refund minus a $100 administrative fee.

After October 15, registrations are non-refundable.

If you are unable to attend, substitutions are welcome at any time.

If you need to make a change, please contact us at whla@wisconsinlodging.org.

5-Course Bourbon Dinner 11/1/2026 5:30 PM - 11/1/2026 8:30 AM

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 14:57:12 GMT

Enjoy a 5-course dinner at the brand new Daylene’s Supper Club in Wisconsin Dells, each course paired with a bourbon drink from Wisconsin’s very own J. Henry & Sons. You will learn about each course from the chef and hear about each bourbon you are tasting from a representative of the distillery. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase their favorite bourbons after the dinner is complete.

Space is limited to 20, all attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

$250 per person, plus a suggested donation of $100 to the WHLA Advocacy Fund
$1,000 sponsorship (one available) includes 2 tickets and opportunity to toast those in attendance.

Hosted by Kalahari Resort Convention Center & Waterpark and J. Henry & Sons.

5th Annual GMHLA Bags Tournament 11/12/2026 12:00 Noon - 11/12/2026 4:00 PM

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:31:23 GMT

Join GMHLA members, Milwaukee hoteliers, local industry supporters, and hospitality vendors for the 5th Annual GMHLA Bags Tournament! Come and enjoy friendly competition, food, and fun at this popular Milwaukee-area chapter event. All skill levels are welcome. Guaranteed 2 games per team, and participation trophies will be awarded to all players.

Grab a partner and attend as a team, or come solo to socialize! Complimentary snacks and drinks will be available at the Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown, and 3rd St. Market Hall vendors will be open, and additional food will be available for purchase.

Team Awards
• Grand Champions
• 2nd Place Team
• 1st Place Hotel Team

Schedule
• 12 PM - Check in at Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
• 12:30 PM - Games begin at the hotel
• 3:30 PM Final Four play-offs in the 3rd St. Market Hall

Registration
Space is limited to 24 teams. Advanced registration is required for all teams.
Spectators may register on-site at the event.

Options for registration
1. Register online using your WHLA credentials
2. Email your list of attendees to gmhla@wisconsinlodging.org

Sponsorships
GMHLA vendor members must sign up as sponsors to participate in this event, and may add additional teams or spectator passes at the Hotel Team rate.

2026 GMHLA Sponsor Guide

ABOUT GMHLA
The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is a non-profit trade association representing the interests of Milwaukee-area properties, as well as the Associate members who provide valued services to our lodging members and their guests. The GMHLA exists to promote the growth of the Greater Milwaukee hospitality partners through education & advocacy.

5th Annual GMHLA Bags Tournament (W) 11/12/2026 12:00 Noon - 11/12/2026 4:00 PM

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:44:44 GMT

Team Awards
• Grand Champions
• 2nd Place Team
• 1st Place Hotel Team

Schedule
• 12 PM - Check in at Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
• 12:30 PM - Games begin at the hotel
• 3:30 PM Final Four play-offs in the 3rd St. Market Hall

Registration
Space is limited to 24 teams. Advanced registration is required for all teams.
Spectators may register on-site at the event.

Options for registration
1. Register online using your WHLA credentials
2. Email your list of attendees to gmhla@wisconsinlodging.org

Sponsorships
GMHLA vendor members must sign up as sponsors to participate in this event, and may add additional teams or spectator passes at the Hotel Team rate.

2026 GMHLA Sponsor Guide

MAHLA November Member Meeting 11/19/2026 3:30 PM - 11/19/2026 5:00 PM

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:28:11 GMT

MAHLA Monthly Chapter Meetings

Stay Connected to Madison’s Lodging Industry

The Madison Area Hotel & Lodging Association (MAHLA) hosts monthly chapter meetings that bring local hospitality professionals together to stay informed, share insights, and discuss what’s happening across the market.

These meetings are intentionally informal and discussion-based—focused on real-time challenges, opportunities, and peer-to-peer connection.

Overview

MAHLA chapter meetings provide a consistent space for Madison-area hoteliers and industry partners to connect and exchange ideas. Conversations are driven by current industry trends, local updates, and the shared experiences of those in the room.

Who Should Attend

• Hotel Owners & Operators

• General Managers & Property Leaders

• Sales & Marketing Professionals

• Hospitality Industry Partners

RSVP

Registration is encouraged; RSVP on LinkedIn.

Conference Committee Meeting 11/19/2026 10:30 AM - 11/19/2026 11:30 AM

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:34:00 GMT

Conference Committee

Committee members plan the annual Wisconsin Lodging Conference and Trade Show.

This committee also monitors WHLA’s educational offerings and makes recommendations on scholarships, partnerships with hospitality programs, student support, and more.

View all WHLA Volunteer Opportunities

WWIL Steering Committee Meeting 12/1/2026 1:00 PM - 12/1/2026 2:00 PM

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:21:49 GMT

Wisconsin Women in Lodging Steering Committee

The WWIL Steering Committee oversees events, content, and benefits for WWIL members. Committee volunteers meet online to plan WWIL programs, shape educational content, and recruit attendees for networking and professional development events.

Learn more about WWIL

View all WHLA Volunteer Opportunities

MAHLA Holiday Party 12/17/2026 3:30 PM - 12/17/2026 5:30 PM

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:59:44 GMT

MAHLA Holiday Party

Celebrate the Season with Madison’s Lodging Industry Community

Join the Madison Area Hotel & Lodging Association (MAHLA) for our annual Holiday Party—a chance to step away from the day-to-day and connect with fellow industry professionals in a relaxed, festive setting.

This event is all about appreciation, connection, and celebrating another year in Madison’s lodging community.

Overview

The MAHLA Holiday Party brings together local hoteliers, industry partners, and hospitality leaders for an easy, enjoyable evening of conversation and seasonal cheer.

No formal program—just a great opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces, and close out the year together.

What to Expect

• Casual networking with Madison-area hospitality professionals
• Festive atmosphere at a local member property
• Light refreshments and holiday touches
• Opportunities to connect with peers and partners

Who Should Attend

• Hotel Owners & Operators
• General Managers & Property Leaders
• Sales & Marketing Professionals
• Hospitality Industry Partners

Sponsorship Opportunities

Support MAHLA’s annual Holiday Party and gain visibility with Madison’s hospitality community while celebrating the season with industry peers.

All sponsorship levels include recognition among local hotel leaders, sales professionals, and hospitality partners.

View Sponsor Levels + Details

2027 WHLA Action Day 2/24/2027 8:00 AM - 2/24/2027 8:00 PM

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 21:13:10 GMT

Big changes are underway in Madison, making the 2027 WHLA Action Day a pivotal moment for Wisconsin’s hospitality industry. Elected officials and new Capitol leaders need to hear directly from hoteliers and local constituents to shape effective policy.

Choose to participate in one event or all three, and ensure our industry’s voice is front and center in 2027.

8:00 am - 10:00 am | Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast
Best Western Premier Park Hotel - Capitol Room
Enjoy breakfast with WHLA's fastest-growing group. Women and allies are encouraged to attend to connect, learn, and fuel their passion for advocacy.

8:00 am | Networking + Breakfast

8:45 am | Breakfast Program
Strong voices from Wisconsin government will share their experiences and insights on leadership and advocacy.

9:30 am | Wisconsin Women in Lodging Update
Learn about WWIL initiatives and upcoming events.

10:00 am - 4:00 pm | WHLA Action Day
Best Western Premier Park Hotel - Capitol Room
Make your voice heard! This signature event includes expert-led education sessions, lunch, and scheduled meetings with state legislators and their staff, providing you with a direct platform to advocate for Wisconsin’s lodging industry.

10:00 am | Check-In & Networking

10:30 am | Action Day Program + Advocacy Lunch
Issues overview from Bill Elliott, WHLA President & CEO; Meeting prep with Kathi Kilgore, WHLA contract lobbyist; Remarks from invited elected officials.

12:30 pm | Walk to the Capitol

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Scheduled Meetings with Legislators
Wisconsin State Capitol

3:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Advocacy Reception + Dinner
The Edgewater Hotel
Cap off the day with an exclusive networking reception and dinner. New governor invited as dinner speaker.

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm | Post-Meeting Meet-Up
Augie's Tavern

4:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Reception & Dinner
Sky Lounge
Enjoy dinner and hear from Wisconsin's newest governor (invited).

Registration Options

Event registration is open now until February 11. Advanced registration is required to ensure that WHLA can pre-schedule your legislative appointments.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Dinner Sponsor - $3,500
Premium brand visibility and a 2-minute welcome during the dinner program. Includes passes for three people to attend Action Day and the Advocacy Reception + Dinner.

Lunch Sponsor - $2,500

Featured recognition during the lunch program. Includes passes for two people for Action Day and the Advocacy Reception + Dinner.

Breakfast Sponsor - $2,250

Featured recognition during the WWIL breakfast. Includes a pass for breakfast, Action Day, and the Advocacy Reception + Dinner.

Supporting Sponsor - $1,000

Brand recognition online and onsite plus one pass for breakfast, Action Day, and the Advocacy Reception + Dinner.

Hotel Accommodations

Best Western Premier Park Hotel
Rooms available for Tues, Feb 23 and Wed, Feb 24
$119.00 per night + 15.5% tax(5.5% state and 10% city)
Book online by January 25

The Edgewater
Rooms available for Wed, Feb 24
$149.00 + resort fee + 15.5% tax(5.5% state and 10% city)
Reservations Line: 608-535-8200 and ask to make a reservation under the group 2027 WHLA Action Day or mention the group block code: CWHLA22427
Book online by January 25

Important Registration Information

This event consists of three separate components (WWIL Breakfast, WHLA Action Day, and Advocacy Reception + Dinner), and we encourage you to participate in all three. When registering, please select each event you plan to attend to ensure your spot.

Rates increase on February 1.

Hotel Solutions Summit 3/11/2027 8:00 AM - 3/11/2027 5:30 PM

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 22:36:24 GMT

Transform Your Lodging Operations with Next-Gen Technology

Join hotel and resort leaders and hospitality solution providers at the premier Hotel Solutions Summit!

Discover cutting-edge tech trends, actionable operational strategies, and hands-on demonstrations designed to elevate guest experiences and streamline lodging management.

Date: March 11, 2027

Location: Resch Expo Center, Green Bay, WI

Who Should Attend: Hotel owners, general managers, technology directors, and industry professionals.

Schedule

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM | Registration & Tabletop Display Setup

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM | Continental Breakfast & Tabletop Viewing

9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Opening Keynote Presentation

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Morning Educational Sessions

12:30 PM – 1:45 PM | Networking Lunch & Speed Networking

1:45 PM – 3:00 PM | Afternoon Educational Sessions & Panel Discussion

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Afternoon Energy Break & Final Exhibit Viewing

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Closing Session & Interactive Wrap-Up

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Networking Reception & Cash Bar

Wisconsin Hospitality Open 6/10/2027 9:00 AM - 6/10/2027 4:30 PM

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 22:47:23 GMT

Join Us on the Green for the Inaugural Wisconsin Hospitality Open!

Connect with lodging leaders, property owners, and industry partners from across the state for a day of networking, friendly competition, and fundraising for Wisconsin's hospitality community.

Date: Thursday, June 10, 2027

Location: Cold Water Canyon Golf Course at Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Format: 18-Hole Scramble (144 Golfers Max)

Schedule

9:00 AM – 10:15 AM - Registration & Morning Warm-Up
Continental breakfast, bar service, open practice.

10:15 AM - Call to Carts

10:30 AM - Shotgun Start
Boxed lunches and on-course beverage cart service provided throughout play.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM - 19th Hole Reception & Awards Program
Hors d'oeuvres, cash bar, contest awards, and live auction.

Course Experience & Activations

On-Course Refreshments: Fully stocked beverage carts and station coolers positioned across the course.

Hole Activations: Interactive sponsor booths, games, and product sampling at designated holes.

Auctions & Prizes: Bid on premier lodging getaways, golf packages, and exclusive hospitality items during the post-round reception.

Player Registration

Individual Golfer: Covers 18 holes, cart, continental breakfast, box lunch, on-course beverages, and full access to the post-round reception.

Foursome Team: Includes complete golfer amenities and entry for a team of 4.

Reception-Only Pass: For non-golfing attendees wanting to join the 3:30 PM reception, appetizers, and auction program.