The XX anniversary edition of the Intourmarket International Regional Hospitality Exhibition and Forum took place in Nizhny Novgorod from April 2 to 4, 2026. This event, held at the exhibition complex "Nizhny Novgorod Fair," marked a significant milestone for the exhibition, which has been a cornerstone of domestic tourism promotion for two decades. Despite initial doubts about relocating from Moscow, the exhibition proved to be a resounding success, attracting a wide range of exhibitors and visitors.
The exhibition complex "Nizhny Novgorod Fair" played host to this grand event, providing ample space for various activities. The extensive business program was one of the key highlights, with video recordings of sessions and a dedicated space for speakers that enhanced the educational experience. Additionally, city tours were organized to provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the region's cultural and historical significance.
New formats were introduced during this edition, such as the Literary Cities session and the creation of tour products, routes, and content centered around patriotic themes. Travel industry specialists showcased their expertise through various demonstrations, including an engaging example from the Pavlovo-Posad Museum Complex where employees created graphic novels. Another noteworthy aspect was student expeditions to cities within the Nizhny Novgorod region, aimed at developing creative tourism promotion ideas for young audiences. These initiatives were guided by Yuri Shchegolkov, Director of the Foundation for Small Historic Towns.
Olga Khotochkina, the permanent director of ITM (Intourmarket), demonstrated her leadership skills by steering the exhibition towards continued success. Her dedication to tourism in Russia was evident throughout the event. As attendees and exhibitors gathered in Nizhny Novgorod, they witnessed firsthand how ITM had maintained its core values while embracing new opportunities.
The success of this event can be attributed not only to its rich program but also to its strong organizational support. The exhibition complex "Nizhny Novgorod Fair" provided a conducive environment for both business and educational activities. With over 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors attending, ITM continued to solidify its position as a leading platform for hospitality professionals in Russia.
In conclusion, the XX anniversary edition of Intourmarket showcased not only the enduring appeal of this exhibition but also its potential for growth and innovation. As it looks towards future editions, ITM remains committed to fostering connections between tourism stakeholders and promoting domestic tourism across Russia.