Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show 2027 in Las Vegas

The Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show (SLATS) is the definitive trade event for the licensed sports and tailgate merchandise industry. Held annually in Las Vegas, it connects more than 300 exhibiting companies—representing major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NASCAR—with thousands of retail buyers, collegiate licensing departments, and industry professionals. This B2B marketplace is where new products are discovered, brand partnerships are forged, and the upcoming retail assortments are shaped. Attendees include a diverse mix of buyers from mass retailers, specialty shops, e-commerce leaders, and university bookstores. The show features a robust collegiate presence, with purchasing representatives from over 100 universities and more than 200 college licensing departments. From apparel and collectibles to gifts and tailgate gear, SLATS offers a comprehensive view of every product category in the licensed sports space. Beyond the exhibit floor, SLATS provides valuable networking opportunities and programs like the License to Buy initiative, designed to facilitate business and deliver tangible ROI. Whether you are a licensor, licensee, retailer, or service provider, the show is the single most important event to gain a competitive edge in the fast-moving sports merchandising market.