Sunday, June 7, 2026

4:30-5:30 PM

Registration, Capitol Ballroom Foyer, The Westin

5:30-6:00 PM

NEW for 2026! Membership Meeting, Capitol Ballroom, The Westin

Join fellow RCI members for a recap of the past year and a look ahead at what's new and what's to come for RCI. Plus, enjoy samples of this year's Grand Confection Award entries.

6:30-9:00 PM

Welcome Event, Punch Bowl Social (off-site) 
Reception sponsored by Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate

Kick off the week with a fun off-site reception at Punch Bowl Social, a short walk from the convention. Mix, mingle and unwind with hors d'oeuvres, drinks while enjoying everything from bowling and arcade games to karaoke and laid-back lounge spaces. Paid ticket required.

7:30 AM-5:00 PM

Registration Desk Open, Convention Center

7:30-9:00 AM 

Setup for Candy Clinic, Capitol Ballroom, The Westin

8:00-11:00 AM

Exhibitor Setup, Exhibit Hall J, Convention Center

9:00-10:00 AM

Kettle Talk (RCI Member Exclusive)

Unlock the secrets to making exceptional confections during this open forum discussion. Come with your questions and expect to cover topics ranging from production, marketing and merchandising to business operations and more.

10:00 AM-12:00 PM

NEW HOURS! Candy Clinic (RCI Member Exclusive), Capitol Ballroom, The Westin

Candy Makers: Bring your best ideas, from product and packaging innovations to new holiday creations! Earn the most votes from your peers and take home an award!

1:00-5:00 PM

NEW HOURS! Expo, Exhibit Hall J, Convention Center

Explore what’s new in the confectionery industry and connect with industry suppliers of ingredients, machinery and equipment, packaging, wholesale and more.

Sweet Break on the Expo Floor, Exhibit Hall J, Convention Center
Sponsored by Blommer Chocolate Co.

Meet us on the expo floor to enjoy sweet bites from Blommer Chocolate Company.

7:30-9:00 PM

NEW HOURS! Next Generation Event (RCI Member Exclusive), Rec Room, The Westin

RCI members in their 20s and 30s are invited to meet up for happy hour! Enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres while getting to know the next generation of industry leaders. RSVP required. Email info@retailconfectioners.org for details.

9:00-11:00 PM

Sweet Meet, Capitol Overlook North, The Westin

Stop by RCI's networking reception hosted by RCI Board President Gregory Power of Las Olas Confections and Snacks.

7:00-9:00 AM

Breakfast, Capitol Ballroom, The Westin

8:00 AM-12:00 PM

8:00-9:00 AM

2026-2027 Board of Directors Meeting & Breakfast, Cabinet, The Westin

9:00 AM-12:00 PM

NEW HOURS! Expo, Exhibit Hall J, Convention Center

Explore what’s new in the confectionery industry and connect with industry suppliers of ingredients, machinery and equipment, packaging, wholesale and more.

1:00-2:00 PM

Education: Roundtable Discussions, Room #130, Convention Center

2:00-2:30 PM

Boxed Chocolate Exchange, Room #130, Convention Center

This fun tradition presents the opportunity for candy makers to samples each other's confections and see how they're packaged. Members are encouraged to bring a one-pound box of their assorted chocolates to the registration desk during check in. The boxes will be displayed during the convention week. Participants will have an opportunity to select a box from another member during the exchange.

2:30-3:30 PM

Education: Path to Purchase: The In-Store Experience, Room #130, Convention Center

3:30-4:30 PM

Education: Pair It Right: Matching Chocolate with Centers,  Room #130, Convention Center

7:00-10:00 PM

Awards Banquet, Capitol Ballroom, The Westin
Silent Disco sponsored by Linnea's Candy Supplies

Set the night aglow as we announce the Grand Confection Award and Candy Clinic winners and recognize industry leaders. After dinner the festivities will continue with a silent disco.

8:00 AM-4:45 PM**

Buses Leave for Off-Site Tours