AOLP to Hold Illuminate ’26 Conference & Expo in California
The Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP) has announced that Illuminate ’26, the outdoor lighting industry’s premier conference and expo, will take place February 5–6, 2026, in Carlsbad, California.
Illuminate ’26 is targeted to outdoor lighting professionals, offering unparalleled opportunities to learn from industry peers, sharpen technical skills in hands-on sessions, explore the latest products and innovations at the expo, and draw inspiration from the outstanding projects showcased in the AOLP Lighting Awards.
The conference will feature a robust lineup of education sessions led by leading outdoor lighting professionals and seasoned business experts. These sessions are designed to equip attendees with both the creative inspiration and practical strategies needed to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.
“Our education sessions bring together some of the brightest minds in outdoor lighting and business strategy,” said AOLP Executive Director Lisa Ruggiers. “Attendees will walk away with real-world insights, proven techniques, and fresh perspectives they can immediately apply to elevate their work and grow their business.”
In addition to the main conference and expo, AOLP invites lighting professionals who want to get certified as an Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD) or as a Low Voltage Lighting Technician (CLVLT) to arrive early to take advantage of the organization’s certification programs.
These educational and testing opportunities are designed to elevate professional credentials and industry expertise:
• Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD) Year 1 – February 3 & 4, 2026
• Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD) Year 2 – February 4, 2026
• Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician (CLVLT) – February 4, 2026
These certifications are recognized across the industry and offer lighting professionals the opportunity to validate their knowledge, grow their business credibility, and distinguish themselves in a competitive market.
“We’re excited to bring Illuminate ’26 to Carlsbad and continue our tradition of excellence in professional development, networking, and product innovation,” Ruggiers stated. “This event is where outdoor lighting professionals come together to grow, inspire, and celebrate our craft.”
More details about registration, hotel accommodation, keynote speakers, and session schedules will be released soon. To get more information about the event and to join a mailing list for the latest updates, click here
