Not Sure Who’s New?

Easily spot other first-time attendees by the “First-Time Attendee” ribbon on their badge making it easy to identify new friends. Be sure to pick one up at Registration located in East Registration of the Tampa Convention Center (TCC).

Looking to Connect?

The Bay Attendee Lounge

TCC | West Registration – 2nd Floor

Come relax, mix and mingle with other first-time attendees in The Bay Attendee Lounge located on the 2nd Floor, West Registration of the Tampa Convention Center. This lounge will not only serve as a meeting point to easily identify others, but you will have the opportunity to meet representatives from Tampa and get tips and advice on what to do in and around Tampa.

First-Time Attendee Reception

Sunday, October 26 | 12:15pm – 1:00pm

TCC | Meeting Room TBD

First-time attendees are invited to this informal gathering featuring light refreshments for an opportunity to meet other First-Time attendees. Be sure to stop by! From the reception, attendees can walk together to the Sunday General Session from 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception

Sunday, October 26 | 3:30pm – 6:30pm

TCC | East/Central Exhibit Halls

The Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception is one you don’t want to miss. This event is included in your registration fee and includes a complimentary beverage of your choice as well as delicious hors d’oeuvres.

First-Time Attendee Tips

Create an Agenda

Create an agenda of sessions you want to attend via the conference app. Be sure to download the app before arriving in Tampa. Information on downloading the conference app will be available on the Annual Conference website beginning in early October.

Engage with Other Attendees

Engage with other attendees via the app. The activity feed is particularly popular with attendees!

Arrive Early

Pro Tip: If a session is particularly important to you, arrive EARLY! Some rooms will reach capacity quickly and arriving late could mean you won’t get access to the room.

Help Welcome First-Time Attendees!

If you see a First-Time Attendee, say hello, introduce them to some of your contacts, sit by them in a session or during the Exhibit Hall lunches, or simply stop by The Bay Attendee Lounge to greet them. Not only will you help First-Time Attendees, but you’ll grow your own network and likely make a great new friend!

Post a badge on your socials!

Visit the social media toolkit on our website. Download a badge and post to your socials, and tag us #ICMA2025!

Go to the social media kit >