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AAHOACON25 set for April 15-17 in New Orleans

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will keynote the conference’s general sessions

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar speaks at AAHOACON25 trade show in New Orleans

The 2025 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show is set for April 15-17 in New Orleans under the theme "New Ideas, New Opportunities, New Orleans." Keynote speakers include, from left, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, stand-up comedian and author Zarna Garg and "Hollywood's Brandfather" Rohan Oza.

Vishnu Rageev R.
By Vishnu Rageev R.Mar 25, 2025
Vishnu Rageev R.

Vishnu Rageev R is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience in business journalism. Before joining Asian Media Group in 2022, he worked with BW Businessworld, IMAGES Group, exchange4media Group, DC Books, and Dhanam Publications in India. His coverage includes industry analysis, market trends and corporate developments, focusing on retail, real estate and hospitality. As a senior journalist with Asian Hospitality, he covers the U.S. hospitality industry. He is from Kerala, a state in South India.

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AAHOA 2025: Innovate and Connect in New Orleans

AAHOA IS GEARING up for the 2025 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show, set for April 15 to 17 in New Orleans. The event, themed "New Ideas, New Opportunities, New Orleans," features three days of education, networking and a trade show.

Spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will be a keynote speaker at AAHOACON25’s general sessions, AAHOA said in a statement.

"AAHOACON25 is more than just a conference—it's where the industry comes together to spark fresh ideas, find new opportunities, and strengthen partnerships," said Miraj Patel, AAHOA chairman. "This year, set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, we're bringing together the best minds in hospitality to explore what's next for our industry. I encourage every hotel owner, industry partner and aspiring leader to join us for a transformative experience."

Key highlights

AAHOACON25 will feature a lineup of speakers. Shankar and Rohan Oza, "Hollywood's Brandfather," will headline the general sessions, AAHOA said. Stand-up comedian and author Zarna Garg will speak at the HerOwnership Luncheon & Session. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with 6,000 industry leaders, peers and vendors while exploring the trends, products and services at the trade show, which will feature more than 500 vendors.

Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA president and CEO, called AAHOACON25 a must-attend event for hospitality professionals.

"With premier networking, educational sessions, and a packed trade show, attendees will walk away with actionable insights and connections that drive success," she said. "I invite everyone committed to the future of our industry to join us in New Orleans for an unforgettable conference."

Education remains a focus, with experts covering hotel insurance, financing, sustainability and AI, AAHOA said. Sessions include a profit strategy masterclass, the Independent Hoteliers Conference & Reception on April 15, and the HYPE Fireside Chat on hospitality leadership. Attendees can also catch the Tech Pitch Competition and The Garage on the trade show floor. Based on feedback, this year's event is condensed into three days, with the trade show set for Wednesday and Thursday.

Beyond business, AAHOACON25 offers multiple networking and social events. The Fulton Street block party will span seven venues with entertainment and networking opportunities, while the Welcome Reception at Spanish Plaza will provide a scenic kickoff along the Mississippi River. The event will close with a Mardi Gras-inspired Gala featuring a float parade on the final night.

"AAHOACON25 is a unique opportunity for hotel owners and industry leaders to connect, learn, and explore new business opportunities," said Kamalesh “KP” Patel, AAHOA vice chairman and convention chairman. "With a strong lineup of speakers, educational sessions, and an expansive trade show, attendees will gain valuable insights and resources to help them succeed. I look forward to welcoming everyone to New Orleans for a productive and memorable event."

AAHOACON24, the association’s 35th national conference held in April 2024, drew more than 7,000 attendees and 524 exhibitors to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The event featured more than 44 education sessions, doubled its sponsors to 26, and saw a 6 percent revenue increase from 2023, 31 percent higher than in 2022. The trade show covered more than 84,500 square feet.

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