What, Where & When January 2012

ROLL OUT: Four events—COEX, Catersource, Digital Signage Expo and Nightclub & Bar—are on tap for Las Vegas this winter. Photo: Newscom

FEBRUARY

8-10

LEGAL EAGLES

Learn how to stay out of legal trouble by sending yourself or your in-house counsel to the 2012 Hospitality Law Conference. Houston's Omni Hotel hosts.

11-14

CHAIN GANG

Whether you're interested in franchising your concept or buying an existing one from someone else, the International Franchise Association's 52nd annual convention is the place to plot your moves. Site is the Marriott World Center, Orlando.

26-29

RED ROCK RENDEZVOUS

The International Foodservice Manufacturers Association presents COEX 2012 at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa in Las Vegas.

26-29

PROFIT FROM PARTIES

Learn how to start, expand or market a profitable sideline business for your restaurant by attending the Catersource 2012 Conference & Trade Show. Headquarters are Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

MARCH

2-4

FAN THE FLAMES

Heat seekers of all persuasions head to New Mexico for the 24th annual National Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show. The Sandia Resort and Casino Events Center in Albuquerque hosts.

6-9

POWER OF THE PIXELS

Eight restaurant-specific educational sessions highlight this year's edition of the Digital Signage Expo. Site is the Las Vegas Convention Center.

8-11

IT'S A NATURAL FACT

Check out a product assortment unlike those of other food-related shows by joining the 58,000 attendees at Natural Products Expo West. It takes place at the Anaheim Convention Center. Don't miss the allied one-day Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace on 3/8.

11-13

SWIM WITH THE FISHES

The tradition-laden International Boston Seafood Show sets up shop at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. The IBSS show is colocated with the New England Food Show.

12-14

NIGHT OWLS

The Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show has a three-day run at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Pick your outfit carefully. Show up wearing “clothing that may be interpreted as promiscuous, provocative or overly suggestive” and you won't get in.