APAP|NYC 2026 brings together 3,000+ artists, agents, bookers, and presenters to launch new work, share resources, and kick off the year’s touring cycle — ensuring performance reaches communities nationwide.
This week, January 9 – 13, more than 3,000 artists and creative leaders from every U.S. state and 30+ countries will gather in New York City for APAP|NYC 2026, the sector’s most influential convening for booking, touring, performance, discovery, and cultural collaboration.
For nearly 70 years, the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) has convened this community — especially critical now, as artistic expression and public access face rising threats. Today, participation in the arts is not just about entertainment — it’s about community resilience, belonging, and the fundamental freedom to tell our stories.
APAP|NYC has gathered performing arts professionals in New York City for more than 50 years, shaping the future of a field that generates $151.7 billion in annual economic activity, supports 2.6 million jobs, and delivers $29.1 billion in government revenue. The conference serves as both a global marketplace and strategic convening, offering professional development, the 50,000 square foot EXPO Hall space with 300+ exhibitors, and 1,000+ showcase performances across NYC that spark tours and partnerships reaching communities nationwide.
What’s Happening
APAP|NYC is a creative marketplace on a national scale. Throughout the New York Hilton Midtown and across hundreds of Manhattan venues, hundreds of showcases will introduce new works and emerging artists to the presenters who help bring them home to stages nationwide.
Conference programming centers on what the field needs most right now:
- Arts Advocacy: Protecting access and artistic freedom
- Thriving by Design: Strengthening sustainable creative careers
- The Art of Belonging: Ensuring representation and inclusive community spaces
- Creative Edge: Embracing tech, innovation, and new forms of expression
This is where programming decisions get made, touring schedules are built, and the creative economy moves forward.
Why This Matters
- Performing arts organizations are trusted local institutions — people show up for them
- Shows and events drive foot traffic that keeps neighboring small businesses open
- Live performance connects people who might not otherwise meet
- Communities with strong cultural participation consistently show higher civic engagement
WHO: 3,000+ artists, agents, managers, producers, presenters, and advocates
WHEN: January 9–13, 2026
WHERE: New York Hilton Midtown + showcases across Manhattan
RSVP: https://form.jotform.com/222095905341150