July 29, 2026
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LEDucation 2027 Expands Dedicated Designer Access with Exclusive Opening Day
New York, NY — Building on the success of the 2026 Designer Hours, LEDucation 2027 will dedicate the first day of the Trade Show exclusively to qualified design professionals. On Tuesday, April 13, the Exhibit Halls will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. exclusively for lighting designers, architects, interior designers, landscape architects, engineers, press, and students. Eligible attendees will receive color-coded badges identifying them for Designer-only access.
"We received an overwhelmingly positive response to Designer Hours in 2026, and it was clear that attendees valued the opportunity to explore the show floor with more time and fewer crowds," said Jamie Eck, LEDucation Co-Chair of SATCO. "By dedicating an entire day to the design community, we're creating a better opportunity for designers to discover new products, engage directly with manufacturers, and experience the Trade Show at their own pace."
The Trade Show will open to all registered attendees on Wednesday, April 14th, and Thursday, April 15th.
The LEDucation Conference will feature a robust educational program, with presentation topics and schedules to be announced in the coming months.
2027 Hours
- Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Kevin McLaughlin to Manage Show Logistics
Kevin McLaughlin, Managing Director of MAC Expos, LLC, will work alongside the LEDucation Committee to oversee the planning and execution of the show's logistics, bringing more than three decades of trade show management experience to the event.
Throughout his career, McLaughlin has overseen every aspect of event management, including operations, logistics, and on-site execution. He has successfully launched new events, revitalized existing shows, and built long-standing relationships with exhibitors, venues, and industry partners.
Following the acquisition of MAC Events by Townsquare Media in 2013, McLaughlin founded MAC Expos, LLC in 2015. Today, he produces two Furniture Markets annually and Total Pro Expo, the Northeast's largest trade show and conference for the landscape, nursery, tree care, and hardscape industries, while continuing to provide show management services for industry events nationwide.
Visit Leducation.org for future announcements.
About LEDucation:
Organized by the Designers Lighting Forum of New York, LEDucation is the ultimate marketplace and educational platform for solid state lighting innovations, giving industry professionals a chance to experience new technologies as well as continue their education through a wide range of accredited seminars. LEDucation is a nonprofit event, and proceeds stimulate future lighting advancements by supporting a variety of DLFNY grants, scholarships, and lighting programs.
About the Designers Lighting Forum of New York:
The Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of lighting. Founded in 1934 and led by a volunteer Board of Managers, DLFNY brings together lighting designers, architects, manufacturers, representatives, contractors, educators, and students to foster collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. Through educational programs, awards, grants, scholarships, networking events, and LEDucation, DLFNY supports the lighting community in New York City and beyond. Visit dlfny.com for more information.
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