The LEDucation Trade Show and Conference, organized by the Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY), concluded another successful event at the New York Hilton Midtown on March 18–19, 2025. As North America’s largest annual lighting industry gathering, LEDucation once again proved to be an essential platform for professionals to discover the latest in lighting technology, connect with industry leaders, and participate in world-class educational programming.

This year’s event saw 475 exhibitors showcasing their new products and technologies across four exhibit halls, further solidifying its reputation as a must-attend industry event. The show floor, along with enhanced networking areas and educational sessions, contributed to an unparalleled experience for attendees.

“LEDucation continues to grow, not only in size but in the value it provides to the lighting community,” said Jamie Eck, LEDucation Co-Chair, Satco. “From a small tabletop event to a premier tradeshow in the heart of New York City, it has been an incredible evolution. The energy on the show floor and in our conference sessions was outstanding. The positive feedback from exhibitors and attendees underscores how much this event means to the industry. Burt Grant, LEDucation Co-Chair, Metro Area Sales and I want to extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated committee, rep agencies, sponsors, the press and everyone who has contributed to making this event possible.”

Education and Knowledge Sharing at the Forefront

“We were incredibly pleased with the presentations this year,” shared the LEDucation Presentations Committee — Wendy Kaplan, Kelvix; Craig Fox, ETC; Shaun Fillion, NYSID | RAB Lighting; and Stacey Bello, KGM Lighting. “Our virtual presentations attracted over 3,000 attendees, covering a wide range of topics, while our in-person sessions were so well attended that we had to adjust room sizes to accommodate demand. One of the most rewarding aspects was seeing young designers present their thesis—brilliant, innovative concepts delivered with confidence and expertise. It’s a testament to how LEDucation’s educational programming is supporting the next generation of lighting professionals. We also thank the IES New York City Section (IESNYC) for their sponsorship of our presentations.”

The 2025 conference featured 29 in-person educational sessions and 13 virtual presentations leading up to the event. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from leading industry experts, exploring emerging trends, sustainability, and cutting-edge lighting technologies.

Exhibitor Insights and Industry Impact

John Yriberri, Market Leader North America, Modular Lighting Instruments, shared his perspective as an exhibitor: “LEDucation offers a level playing field where every exhibitor—regardless of budget—has the same opportunity to connect with the New York lighting community. For us, it’s a fantastic opportunity to focus on introducing new products and innovations, as we’ve learned that’s what truly excites and engages attendees. LEDucation continues to be the premier lighting event in North America, always evolving and striving to elevate the experience for both exhibitors and attendees. We’re already looking forward to seeing how it continues to refine and innovate when we return for our eighth year in 2026.”

Spotlight on the Next Generation of Lighting Professionals

A highlight of LEDucation 2025 was the IESNYC Student Lighting Competition, which showcased the creative talents of the next generation of lighting professionals. The theme, A Sight for Sore Eyes, challenged students to develop solutions that address visual comfort and glare mitigation. Beyond a competition, this initiative highlights LEDucation’s dedication to fostering young talent and connecting emerging professionals with industry leaders.

Looking Ahead to LEDucation 2026

With approximately 10,000 attendees, LEDucation 2025 once again, exceeded expectations, providing a vibrant and dynamic environment for business, education, and networking. Mark your calendars now—LEDucation 2026 will take place on April 14–15, 2026! As we continue the tradition of excellence and innovation, we look forward to welcoming the lighting community once again for another key industry gathering next year.

For more information, visit www.leducation.org.

About LEDucation

Organized by the Designers Lighting Forum of New York, LEDucation is the ultimate marketplace and educational platform for solid state lighting innovations, giving industry professionals a chance to experience new technologies as well as continue their education through a wide range of accredited seminars. LEDucation is a nonprofit event, and proceeds stimulate future lighting advancements by supporting a variety of grants, scholarships, and lighting programs. Visit leducation.org for more information.

About the Designers Lighting Forum of New York

The Designers Lighting Forum of New York is committed to exploring and presenting the power of lighting in design. Founded in 1934, DLFNY is a not-for-profit organization, led by a volunteer Board of Managers and sustained by member dues and the generous support of corporate sponsors. The DLFNY enthusiastically provides designers, architects, manufacturers and their representatives, contractors, educators, and students with opportunities to meet and experience the wonder of lighting in New York City and beyond. The DLFNY also supports formal lighting education through contributions to local universities and design schools, as well as national programs. Visit dlfny.com for more information.