October is one of the busiest months in the international trade fair calendar. Industries, across Europe and beyond, gather to showcase innovation, network, and explore new business opportunities. This is one of the months with the most diverse types of fairs. No matter the industry, there is definitely an event that can be beneficial for you. Here’s a roundup of some of the biggest and most influential trade fairs in October that attract thousands of visitors.
1. Chillventa – Nuremberg, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 13–15 October 2026
Focus: Refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilation, and heat pumps
Chillventa is one of the leading international trade fairs for refrigeration, AC, ventilation, and heat pump technologies. It brings together experts, manufacturers, and decision-makers to showcase cutting-edge solutions and exchange knowledge on energy efficiency and sustainability. Professionals attending Chillventa can explore the latest industry innovations and build valuable business connections across the global HVAC&R sector.
2. Frankfurt Book Fair – Frankfurt, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 7-11, October 2026
Focus: Publishing and literature
The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world’s largest trade fair for books, media, and publishing. It draws thousands of authors, publishers, literary agents, and media professionals. Attendees can discover new releases, negotiate publishing deals, and attend literary talks and workshops. With its global influence, the fair is crucial for anyone in the publishing industry.
3. SIAL – Paris, France
Upcoming Edition: 17–21 October 2026
Focus: Food innovation, retail, and foodservice
SIAL Paris is one of the world’s largest and most influential food industry exhibitions. It gathers producers, distributors, and buyers from every segment of the global food supply chain. The event showcases the latest innovations, trends, and technologies shaping the future of food. Attending SIAL offers unparalleled networking opportunities and insights into emerging markets and consumer preferences worldwide.
4. CPhI Worldwide – Various Locations
Upcoming Edition: 6-8, October 2026
Focus: Pharmaceuticals
CPhI Worldwide is one of the largest global pharmaceutical trade fairs. The event brings together pharmaceutical companies, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. Attendees can explore new ingredients, formulations, contract services, and regulatory insights. It’s a key event for anyone in pharma, biotech, or related industries.
5. Fastener Fair Italy – Milan, Italy
Upcoming Edition: 6–7 Octoberber 2026
Focus: Fastener, fixing, and fastening technologies
Fastener Fair Italy is the key trade event for fastener and fixing technology professionals. It brings together manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers showcasing the latest products and innovations in industrial fasteners, construction fixings, and assembly systems. Visiting Fastener Fair Italy allows attendees to network with industry experts, discover new technologies, and strengthen business relationships across the European and global markets.
6. Expo Real – Munich, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 5-7, October 2026
Focus: Real estate and investment
Expo Real is Europe’s leading trade fair for real estate and investment. Developers, investors, urban planners, and service providers gather to discuss market trends, projects, and investment opportunities. The event is renowned for networking and connecting stakeholders across the commercial and residential real estate sectors.
7. Orgatec – Cologne, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 27–30 October 2026
Focus: Office furniture, workplace concepts, and office design
Orgatec is the international trade fair for modern working environments. It brings together manufacturers, designers, and decision-makers to showcase innovative office furniture, interior solutions, and workplace concepts. Attending Orgatec offers professionals the opportunity to explore the latest trends, gain insights into future workplace solutions, and network with key players in the office design and workspace industry.
6. Glasstec – Düsseldorf, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 20–23 October 2026
Focus: Glass production, processing, and products
Glasstec is the world’s leading trade fair for the glass industry, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and professionals involved in glass production, processing, and applications. The event showcases innovations in machinery, technology, and sustainable solutions for the global glass market. Attending Glasstec allows professionals to discover cutting-edge products, exchange knowledge, and establish connections with industry leaders worldwide.
7. Fakuma – Friedrichshafen, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 12–16 October 2026
Focus: Industrial plastics processing and manufacturing technologies
Fakuma is a leading international trade fair for industrial plastics processing. It brings together manufacturers, suppliers, and experts to showcase innovations in injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, and additive manufacturing technologies. Attending Fakuma provides professionals with the opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions, learn about industry trends, and network with key players in the plastics and manufacturing sector.
10. SPIEL Essen – Essen, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 22-25, October 2026
Focus: Board games, toys, and hobby products
SPIEL Essen is the world’s largest trade fair for board games, hobby products, and tabletop games. It attracts game designers, publishers, retailers, and enthusiasts. Attendees can test new games, attend workshops, and discover the latest trends in gaming and entertainment.
Why Attending October Trade Fairs Matters
October is an ideal month to plan your trade fair calendar. These events:
- Provide access to industry innovations and product launches
- Offer networking opportunities with global professionals
- Help businesses expand into new markets
- Offer a platform for learning and collaboration through seminars and workshops
Whether you’re in hospitality, publishing, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or gaming, attending trade fairs in October can offer strategic advantages for your business.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning to attend any of these events, it’s crucial to book accommodation early. Cities like Frankfurt, Cologne, and Düsseldorf experience high hotel occupancy during trade fairs. Travel agencies specializing in corporate hotel bookings, like Fair Point, can help secure a convenient place, so you can focus on maximizing your experience instead of focusing on searching through dozens of websites for the perfect stay. We have you covered!
If you are interested in more trade fairs, you can check our compilation of the best trade fairs in January 2026 February 2026, March 2026, April 2026, May 2026, June 2026, July 2026, August 2026, September 2026, November 2025, December 2025
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