AGTA GemFair Tucson Adopts Sunday-Thursday Schedule for 2027-2029

New Format to Enhance Attendee Shopping and Exhibitor Engagement

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has announced a new date pattern for its annual GemFair Tucson, effective from 2027 through 2029. Responding to overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors, the show will transition to a Sunday-through-Thursday schedule. This strategic shift aims to accommodate attendees who prefer weekend shopping days while maintaining the successful five-day show format.

Bruce Bridges, AGTA Board President, highlighted the success of the recent five-day format, noting a 7% increase in buyer attendance in 2026 compared to 2025. The decision to move to a Sunday opening was heavily influenced by exhibitor surveys, which indicated a strong preference for continuing the five-day duration. This new schedule is also intended to re-engage approximately 150 companies that did not participate in 2026 and historically favored weekend dates.

AGTA CEO John W. Ford, Sr., expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating, 'I am thrilled that AGTA has set the format and the dates for GemFair Tucson for the next three years, allowing our attendees to plan their schedules and coordinate their travel.'

Key Dates and Events

The updated schedule ensures that the popular Toast to Tucson Party will still take place on the opening Sunday. The GemFair will also continue to offer two days of educational seminars, with dates to be announced, and will host the Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards Gala in the evening. The Tucson Convention Center at 260 S Church Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 will remain the venue.

The specific dates for GemFair Tucson for the upcoming years are:

• 2027: Sunday, Jan. 31 – Thursday, Feb. 4
• 2028: Sunday, Jan. 30 – Thursday, Feb. 3
• 2029: Sunday, Jan. 28 – Thursday, Feb. 1

For inquiries, interested parties can contact AGTA at [email protected].

The AGTA GemFair Tucson is a premier event for the gemstone and jewelry industry, bringing together manufacturers, wholesalers, and buyers. The shift in schedule is anticipated to further solidify its position as a key industry gathering.