Changes to this premier industry networking event in 2024 are designed to further increase its appeal.

For decades, AIA Canada Night has been a staple event for attendees to the AAPEX and SEMA Shows in Las Vegas each November. It represents a unique and unparalleled opportunity for auto care industry professionals to network, build and strengthen relationships. In order to attend, individuals must represent an organization that has an office in Canada or representative currently working in the Canadian auto care sector. AIA Canada also welcomes industry representatives from the U.S., whose organizations have a strong presence in Canada.

Humble beginings

Starting off with humble beginnings more than 50 years ago, where a few Canadian automotive aftermarket suppliers attending AAPEX decided to get together with their Canadian customers and meet informally while in Las Vegas, the event has grown to become one of the premier industry networking events on the calendar. AIA Canada has a long history with this event, beginning with the early formalization, promotion and planning of Canada Night.

For many years, AIA Canada Night was held at Caesar’s Palace though during the COVID-19 pandemic, the decision was taken to move the event to The Venetian Resort, first as a small, informal gathering when AAPEX returned to a physical format in 2021 (following the virtual only program in 2020), and then back to a full-scale format in 2022 and 2023. The new format ensured that AIA Canada Night was located closer to the AAPEX show floor and started immediately following the close of the trade show for the day. This enabled attendees to join us early and allow them to carry on to other commitments afterwards. It also enabled others to join us later and really create an on-going flow of people throughout the evening and AIA Canada Night.

New venue and format

For 2024, AIA Canada Night, which will take place on November 5, has a new venue and format. Instead of being housed in a ballroom environment, it will take place in the open air, at The Palazzo Pool Deck at The Venetian Resort. Additionally, AIA Canada is changing the format too, with new sponsorship opportunities as well as opening the doors to AIA Canada night to everyone across the Canadian auto care industry.

Rather than being an invite-only opportunity, as was the case in the past, this year will allow more people to join, network, and experience the event. This reformatting of AIA Canada Night, is the result of extensive consultation with various stakeholders, and is designed to not only rejuvenate an iconic industry event, but attract as many AIA Canada members and industry professionals as possible to experience all that Canada Night has to offer.

The AAPEX and SEMA Shows represent the most important events for the automotive aftermarket industry in North America. They continue to attract numerous Canadians who travel to Las Vegas each year to meet and conduct business with other industry professionals and organizations. All major sister associations to AIA Canada are also present at Canada Night, and this provides AIA Canada the opportunity to not only be highly present, but also leverage its position as the leading Canadian Association for the auto care sector. For more details, visit aiacanada.com/canada-night/