After five years of evolution, our annual trade show now has a permanent name.
LightConnect
September 10, 2026
Join us for LightConnect, the new permanent name for Designlight’s annual customer event, bringing together lighting professionals for networking, education, innovation, and entertainment.
This year’s event features a live performance by
Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray.
Registration now open! Reserve your spot and be part
of the first chapter of LightConnect.
Classes
Lighting Control Basics (101)
1 CEU (Self-Reported)
Speaker: Brad Montgomery, Designlight
10:00 am – 11:00 am
This introductory course covers the basics of lighting control systems, including key terminology, dimming technologies, and common control types used in residential and commercial settings. It builds foundational knowledge of how lighting controls improve energy efficiency, comfort, and system performance.
How Lighting Shapes Behavioral Health
1 LU | HSW
Speaker: Tommy Nichols, LC, EDAC, Ed.M., MBA
Business Development Director Healthcare, Acuity
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
This course explores lighting design for behavioral health environments, focusing on safety, regulatory compliance, and evidence-based strategies that support patient healing.
The Missing Seat at the Design Table: Why Lighting Design Matters
Panel: Andrea Hartranft, Shanna Brown, Aram Ebben, and Jess Baker
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
This panel discusses the role of lighting designers in project development and how early collaboration improves design quality, coordination, and construction outcomes. It highlights real-world challenges like budgets, value engineering, and preserving design intent.
The Art & Science of Theatrical Lighting Power & Controls
1 AIA
Speakers: Rich Dale, CHAUVET Professional
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
This course covers the fundamentals of stage lighting design, including controllable properties of light, fixture types, and system configurations. It also introduces power, control, and data systems used to support modern lighting design.
4
Courses
Make the most out of your day! Sign up for any of our accredited classes in between the Trade Show and earn while you learn.
500+
Attendees
The last three year’s, we’ve hosted local lighting designers, architects, engineers, contractors and distributors—offering a space for networking, learning and collaboration
40+
Manufacturers
Get ready for exciting innovation as we host in collaboration with more than 30 of the industry’s top leading manufactures in lighting.
Getting there
Plan your Day
We want to make getting to our Trade Show quick and easy so you have plenty of time to enjoy your day.
Directions
Don’t get lost!
We’ll light the way.
Parking
Unlock hassle-free parking—your spot, our mission.
Venue Map
Locate the venue, classes, food, concert hall, and more.
Schedule
Never miss a beat and stay on time for all you need to see.
Special performance by
Mark McGrath
Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray is bringing the soundtrack to LightConnect 2026.
Join us for a live performance from the iconic frontman behind hits like “Fly,” “Every Morning,” and “Someday.” Expect an energetic, feel-good set packed with the songs that defined a generation and continue to get crowds singing along.
Get in the mood before the show with our curated Spotify playlist featuring Sugar Ray favorites and other throwback hits. Press play, turn it up, and get ready for an unforgettable night at LightConnect 2026.
in collaboration with 40 of the industry’s leading manufacturers
SMILE
All your Manufacturers — One Place.
One of our Manufacturers? Click below for necessary information and to register.
Frequently Asked questions
Have a Question?
We can Answer it!
How do I get there?
This year’s Trade Show will be hosted at Cannery Hall, located between the The Gulch neighborhood and downtown. The address is: 1 Cannery Row, Nashville, TN, 37203
United States.
Are there Accredited Classes?
Yes, we have four accredited classes this year.
Will there be Uber Codes?
Yes, Uber codes will be available for getting to and from the event. Once you are registered, the codes will be emailed to you prior to the event. We’ll also have the codes on hand at check in.
Who is Performing?
We’re excited to welcome Mark McGrath, the iconic frontman of Sugar Ray, as the featured performer for LightConnect 2026. Get ready for a high-energy live show featuring fan favorites like “Fly,” “Every Morning,” and “Someday,” making for an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
How long is the Trade Show?
The Trade Show is 6.5 hours long. It begins at 11am and ends at 5:30pm.
The evening cocktail hour begins at 5:00pm and concert ends at 8:00pm.
Will there be food?
Lunch will be served 11:00am – 1:30pm
Open bar and passed apps will begin at 4:30pm. Passed dessert from 6:30pm – 7:30pm.
Water and coffee will be served during the day.
LightConnect 2026 