US Event Industry News Roundup for March 2026

Highlights include a hotel renovation in Denver, an immersive Bachelorette experience in LA, and a new GM for the Palm Springs Convention Center

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:30pm

This roundup of US event industry news for March 2026 covers a variety of developments, including the release of a new industry white paper by HeadBox, a multimillion-dollar transformation of The Curtis Hotel in Denver, the launch of an immersive Bachelorette experience in Los Angeles, the 100th anniversary celebration of the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel, and the appointment of a new general manager for the Palm Springs Convention Center.

Why it matters

These stories showcase the continued evolution and innovation happening across the US event industry, from the use of AI-powered event technology to the creation of unique experiential activations for consumers. They also highlight the importance of investing in venue upgrades and bringing in experienced leadership to drive the success of major event facilities.

The details

The HeadBox white paper identifies five key obstacles preventing organizations from bringing meetings and events under strategic control. The Curtis Hotel in Denver has completed a full-property renovation, reimagining its 13 themed floors. The House of Roses immersive experience in LA will bring iconic moments from The Bachelorette to life for one day only. The InterContinental New York Barclay is celebrating its 100th anniversary by offering a curated hotel package that immerses guests in different eras of the property's history. And the Palm Springs Convention Center has appointed Karen Totaro, a seasoned industry executive, as its new general manager.

  • The HeadBox white paper was released on March 17, 2026.
  • The Curtis Hotel renovation was completed in March 2026.
  • The House of Roses immersive experience will take place on March 22, 2026.
  • The InterContinental New York Barclay is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026.
  • Karen Totaro assumed her role as general manager of the Palm Springs Convention Center on March 16, 2026.

The players

HeadBox

An AI-powered meetings and events platform that released a new industry white paper.

The Curtis Hotel

A downtown Denver hotel that has completed a multimillion-dollar transformation.

Nya Studios West

The venue hosting the House of Roses immersive Bachelorette experience in Los Angeles.

InterContinental New York Barclay

A 100-year-old hotel in New York City that is celebrating its anniversary.

Karen Totaro

The new general manager of the Palm Springs Convention Center.

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The takeaway

The event industry continues to evolve, with companies investing in innovative technologies, unique experiential activations, and strategic venue leadership to drive success. These stories highlight the industry's resilience and adaptability in the face of changing consumer preferences and market demands.