The 27th edition of Premiere Columbus, organized by Premiere Shows, took place on October 11-12, 2026, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The show welcomed 10,500 visits from beauty professionals and students — a 10% increase in attendance compared to 2025. This growth underscored Premiere Columbus’s long-standing role as the Midwest’s go-to destination for professional beauty education.
“What we’re seeing is a community that’s doubling down on its own growth,” said Erin McDonald, Event Director for the Premiere shows. “Beauty professionals aren’t just coming to shop — they’re coming to invest in their career and this year’s attendance numbers show that momentum is building year over year.”
Education at its Core
Education was heartbeat of the show, with more than 150 classes offered across hair, barbering, spa and wellness, nails, and business development. Classrooms attracted engaged audiences throughout the two days, reflecting the Midwest beauty community’s long-standing demand for accessible, high-caliber instruction, while continuing education credits gave Ohio-licensed cosmetologists an added incentive to fulfill license renewal requirements while attending the show.
That energy carried well beyond the classroom. The Main Stage, the newly introduced Color Stage, and in-booth demonstrations across the exhibitor floor gave attendees even more opportunities to learn high level education from top talent.
That spirit of continued professional education was especially visible among this year’s 80+ educators. First-time Premiere Columbus educator Olivia Thompson brought valuable business education to the classroom with sessions like Becoming the Director of Your Social Media Brand. “This was my first time teaching in Columbus, and it definitely won’t be my last,” said Thompson. “I had standing room only in every class, with hair, nail, and skin professionals learning together — which is rare in beauty show classes and exactly why cross-industry education matters so much.”
Fellow first-time Columbus educator Libby Brenner also drew packed houses, with standing-room crowds for both her Main Stage session, Crafting Curls, and her Color Stage presentation. “Being up on the stage, in front of my peers, and helping them feel inspired and equipped to grow their craft is a career-defining moment,” said Brenner. “Education like this is what pushes our industry forward — when professionals leave with new skills they can use immediately, that’s the real measure of a show’s value.”
The Exhibitor Floor Welcomed New Brands
More than 100 exhibitors filled the show floor, including first-time Premiere Columbus brands American Crew, House of Foils, and Ulta Beauty. These exhibitors brought fresh energy to the show overall, from product sales to interactive experiences and education opportunities.
“Premiere Columbus brought together passionate beauty professionals from across the Midwest for a weekend of education, inspiration and meaningful industry connection. At Ulta Beauty, we believe that investing in continued education and supporting beauty professionals throughout their careers ultimately strengthens our industry and the experience we’re able to provide our guests. We were proud to bring that commitment to life through engaging classroom education and interactive, hands-on learning at our exhibit booth, while connecting with talented professionals who share our passion for beauty,” said Megan Murray, VP Events & In Store Experience, Ulta Beauty.
Beyond the exhibitor floor, attendees also shopped the Value Center, which offered discounts on professional products to help stock shelves and service stations ahead of the busy season.
Competition Energy on Full Display
The energy on the show floor wasn’t limited to shopping and demos – competition brought its own excitement. The Barber Battle, powered by L3VEL3 and sponsored by JRL, drew barbers showcasing precision, creativity, and technical skills in front of an enthusiastic crowd. This year’s Barber Battle champion was Akash of Nova Hair Studio in Pickerington, Ohio.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Premiere Columbus looks ahead to its next edition, returning to the Greater Columbus Convention Center September 12-13, 2027.
Premiere’s 2027 show series is already taking shape: attendee registration for Premiere Anaheim is open now, and exhibitor applications are being accepted across all 2027 Premiere Shows events.
For more information, visit premiereshows.com and follow @premierebeautyshows for updates and announcements.
