Innovating with Tradition,
for a Sustainable Future

About the BestCities Global Forum

Discover the perfect blend of innovation and heritage at the BestCities Global Forum 2026 in vibrant Guadalajara, Mexico, from 5–8 February 2026. Under the theme “Innovating with Tradition, for a Sustainable Future,” this transformative event will explore how tradition can inspire modern solutions for a brighter, greener future. Join global thought leaders, association executives, and city representatives for an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most dynamic cultural hubs.

As a gathering that champions the power of face-to-face interactions, this forum promises enriching workshops and sessions designed to both challenge and inspire attendees. Planners will benefit from unparalleled opportunities to connect with peers from diverse industries and explore innovative approaches to meeting design, sustainability, and impact. All whilst getting to know the 13 BestCities Global Alliance destination partners under one roof.

Guadalajara is an intersection of Mexican traditions and modern conveniences. With the largest convention center in Mexico, 61 unique venues, 22 arenas and stadiums, and 23,500 group-friendly hotel rooms within the metropolitan area, Guadalajara is ready to welcome you to the Global Forum.

We harness the power of collaboration and community to create positive impact through business events.

BestCities Global Alliance

Testimonials Global Forum 2024

'This Forum sets great example on how meeting should be organised: full of engagement with fellow participants, speakers and organisers, and encouraging and practical take-aways for associations.'

— Linh To, Event and Project Manager, Worldchefs

'Meet with people at a meeting about meetings. It sounds awful. But it was amazing. I have run so many meetings but this event made me realised that my cut-and-paste approach needs significant updating. I have arrived home super-stoked to change up the way we do things. My committee won't know what has hit them.'

— Prof Lesley Sloss, International Project Manager, International Centre for Sustainable Carbon

'The BestCities Global Forum offered the perfect mix of an educational program, opportunities to meet potential future destination partners, and excellent networking opportunities due to a small group. I enjoyed the forum immensely and can wholeheartedly recommend it to other international associations.'

— Christin Herger, Director Global Events, World Association of News Publishers

Who should attend?

Open to International Associations, Association Management Companies, Agencies, Corporate Meeting Planners, (Core) PCOs and invited guests, the Global Forum is the ideal opportunity to:

Cross Industry

Learn from outside our industry, share your thoughts and challenges with like minded peers and make connections beyond the forum.

Experience Guadalajara

A city where the world’s brightest minds gather to inspire, innovate and create real change in world-leading research and development.

Network

Network with the 13 BestCities partner destinations and your association peers. Get away from your screen as a number of unique experiences await you in Guadalajara!

REGISTER INTEREST

About the organisers

BESTCITIES GLOBAL ALLIANCE

‘We harness the power of collaboration and community to create positive impact through business events.’

Dedicated to excellence we’re an alliance of 13 cities that never settles when it comes to business events, we continuously push for better.

The quality and reach of our global community and our open knowledge exchange, allows our partners and clients to develop and offer experiences that make a more positive impact and leave a stronger and lasting legacy on the world.

Founded with this community spirit we continue to believe that our world prospers when it comes together, works together and shares generously.

We are the BestCities Global Alliance.

GUADALAJARA VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU

The Guadalajara Visitors and Convention Bureau is a non-commercial association dedicated to promoting the city to attract tourism. For over 50 years, we have been providing extensive advice to associations and event organizers for hosting National and International Congresses in our city.

We support you in bringing your congresses, conventions, or exhibitions to the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area.

#BCGlobalForum

#BCGlobalForumGuadalajara

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