The Running Event Signals Accelerated Industry Momentum Ahead of Landmark 20th Anniversary

May 20, 2026

North America’s premier run specialty retail conference and trade show returns to San Antonio with surge of returning exhibitors, new brands, and strong year-over-year growth

PORTLAND, Maine (May 20, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Running Event (TRE), North America’s premier run specialty retail conference and trade show, today unveiled a first look at its growing 2026 exhibitor list. This milestone edition marks two decades of gathering the running industry and will take place December 1-3, 2026, at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas.

As TRE celebrates its 20th anniversary, early exhibitor commitments underscore the vibrant energy and continued evolution across the run specialty industry. At this stage in the planning cycle, 274 brands have already secured their spot in the exhibit hall.

This year’s early exhibitor lineup is a testament to the show’s ability to blend new energy and long-standing industry cornerstones, with first-time and notable returning brands securing their space on the show floor. Fabletics will make its TRE debut in 2026, joining a growing roster of first-time exhibitors that includes Huckberry and Spiritual Gangster.

“We are excited for the opportunity to introduce Fabletics to the running specialty community and connect directly with retailers who are passionate about performance, innovation, and consumer engagement,” said Todd Picciano, U.S. Director of Wholesale at Fabletics. “Participating in TRE represents an important step in expanding our wholesale footprint and building meaningful relationships within the run specialty channel. We believe the event provides a unique platform to showcase our product, tell our brand story, and better understand the needs of both retailers and consumers within the running space.”

The early lineup also features brands like Mount to Coast, Bandit Running, Merrell, Bombas, Satisfy, Skechers, and Oofos, reflecting the event’s continued momentum and broad appeal across the run specialty industry.

“Twenty years of The Running Event is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to the passion and resilience that define this community,” said Genae Salinas, TRE event director. “Running has always been about more than the miles, and TRE has always been about more than the trade show. This year, we’re honoring two decades of that spirit while setting the stage for everything the running industry has in store.”

TRE’s 20th anniversary theme, “Celebrating Run Specialty Now and Tomorrow,” serves as the foundation for the 2026 experience, honoring the people, retailers, and brands that have built the industry while sparking the conversations and connections that will define its future. The 2026 event will bring together specialty retailers, brands, race organizers, and industry leaders to explore the trends shaping the world of running.

Early exhibitor momentum also follows strong enthusiasm around TRE’s return to San Antonio. After a standout first year in the city in 2025, brands and attendees have shared positive feedback about the location, accessibility, and convention center experience, with many eagerly anticipating their return in 2026.

The Running Event will take place December 1-3 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together the brightest minds, latest trends, and most impactful conversations in the running industry. Additional exhibitors, partners, programming, and anniversary-focused experiences will be announced in the coming months. Stay up to date with the latest TRE news here.

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About The Running Event
Launched in 2006, The Running Event (TRE) is North America’s premier specialty retail conference and trade show, bringing together thousands of industry professionals to discover the latest in footwear, apparel, gear, and services. With a strong focus on innovation and industry growth, TRE provides forward-thinking conference programming, peer learning opportunities, and dynamic product discovery that help shape the future of run specialty. As the must-attend trade show for the running industry, TRE is committed to fostering innovation, supporting retailers, and driving the industry forward. For more information, visit www.therunningevent.com.

Media Contact: tre@obviouslee.com // Media Library