HIMSS 2026 conference experience: The power of side events for networking

Maximizing your HIMSS 2026 experience: The power of side events for networking

The HIMSS 2026 Global Health Conference & Exhibition in Las Vegas is one of the most anticipated events in the healthcare and technology space. While the main conference is packed with insightful sessions, one of the best ways to truly maximize your experience is by attending the various side events happening throughout the week.

What is HIMSS?

HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) is a global conference that brings together healthcare and technology leaders to discuss the latest innovations, trends, and challenges in the industry. It serves as a key platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring cutting-edge digital health solutions.

HIMSS 2026  is one of the most anticipated events in the healthcare and technology space. While the main conference is packed with insightful sessions, one of the best ways to truly maximize your experience is by attending the various side events happening throughout the week.

What to expect at HIMSS 2026

HIMSS 2026 takes place March 9 to 12, 2026 in Las Vegas at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center. Beyond the expo floor, expect a strong mix of education, peer exchange, and real-world case studies across topics that typically draw the biggest healthcare technology audiences, including:
• AI and machine learning in healthcare
• Cybersecurity, risk, and resilience
• Interoperability and data exchange
• Digital transformation and patient experience
• Analytics, governance, and operational maturity

If you’re planning your week, side events are one of the easiest ways to meet the right people in a calmer setting, then bring those conversations back into the conference days.

Why side events matter?

Side events: such as networking receptions, happy hours, luncheons, and exclusive meetups, offer attendees a chance to connect in a more relaxed setting. Unlike the structured nature of conference sessions, these gatherings create the perfect environment for:

• Stronger, faster connections. Meet peers, partners, and decision-makers in a setting designed for real conversation, not quick booth chats.
• Better business alignment. Explore collaboration opportunities and evaluate solutions with the right stakeholders, often in smaller groups.
• Signal over noise. Join focused discussions, demos, and roundtables that surface practical insights you may not catch during packed conference days.

Must-attend side events at HIMSS 2026

To help you make the most of your time in Las Vegas, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best side events taking place around HIMSS 2026. From cocktail receptions to networking lunches, there’s something for everyone.

Check out the full list of side events here:

Want to feature your event?

If you’re organizing a side event and want to be included in our curated listing, we’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us, and we’ll make sure your event gets the visibility it deserves among healthcare and tech professionals attending HIMSS 2026.

Don’t miss the opportunity to expand your network, strengthen partnerships, and take your HIMSS experience to the next level. See you in Las Vegas!