Join ASTA for an unforgettable experience at the 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits in Palm Springs, California, from April 21-23. Experience the perfect blend of education and networking at the premier global spice industry event. Set against the serene backdrop of the Palm Springs desert, this meeting is your opportunity to immerse yourself in ASTA’s unique culture while creating lasting connections with trade colleagues and friends.

Elevating Spices in Today's Health-Focused Food Regulatory Landscape

This full-day symposium held in advance of the 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits will explore how spices can play a pivotal role in the evolution of U.S. food policy, including in the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) priorities. From health policy to regulatory trends, consumer research, and practical applications of using spices for color and as alternatives to salt and sugar, attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of how the spice sector can naturally add flavor and color to whole, healthy foods.

Developing Agenda

Please Note: This is a developing agenda, and topics, timing, and speakers are subject to change.

Program Registration 

Supplemental Events

Spouse Registration

All credit card payments must be made online. If you do not have a login to the ASTA website or would like to pay via check or wire, please contact [email protected].

Registration Deadline 

Online registration ends Wednesday, April 15, 2026. After that date, please contact [email protected] to register.

Cancellations

All refund/cancellation requests must be received in writing. 

• Cancellations received on or before March 17, 2026, will receive a full refund, less the $45 processing fee. 
• Cancellations received before April 10, 2026, will receive a 50% refund. 
• Cancellations received after April 11, 2026, will not be issued a refund. 

Refunds for payments made via check or wire will be processed after the event.

Substitutions

Attendee substitutions may be made before the event, provided the substitute is from the same organization.

Spouse Registration Policy

Spouse registration is intended for family members over 18 years of age who are not employed by the member’s firm or active in the spice industry. Any individual employed by a spice company or active in the spice trade must register at the member or non-member rate. The spouse/partner registration includes only social events. Spouses are not permitted in the meeting sessions. 

Suitcasing Policy

ASTA shall have a zero-tolerance policy for suitcasing at the ASTA Annual Meeting or any other ASTA event. Violators may be subject to the potential penalties as outlined in the ASTA Suitcasing Policy, available here.

Photo/Film Policy

ASTA may take photographs or film during the event. By participating in the event, you authorize ASTA, without limitation, the right to reproduce, copy, exhibit, publish, or distribute any such film or photograph and waive all rights or claims you may have against ASTA and/or any of its Affiliates, Subsidiaries, or Assignees.

Data Collection

By completing this event registration form, ASTA is collecting your name, email, address, company affiliation, personal preferences, and payment information so that ASTA can facilitate, process, and confirm your registration for this event. Additionally, unless otherwise expressly requested by ASTA, by completing the following event registration form, your name, address, and company affiliation will be included in the ASTA event attendee list, provided electronically and in hardcopy to other ASTA event attendees and speakers. View ASTA’s Privacy Policy here.

Registration Questions? 

Contact ASTA at [email protected] or 202-331-2460.

Experience the beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains at La Quinta Resort & Club, a historic desert retreat and the venue for ASTA’s 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits.

La Quinta Resort & Club

49 – 499 Eisenhower Drive
La Quinta
CA 92253
1 (760) 564-4111

Check-in: 4:00 pm 
Check-out: 11:00 am

Transportation Information

The closest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), approximately 40 minutes from the resort. There is No Hotel Shuttle. Taxi and rideshare services are available, as are car rental options. Self-parking is available at the resort tor $15 per day, and valet parking is available for $25 per day.

The ASTA preferred rate room block is now closed.  Guests can reach out to the hotel directly to see if there is any availability and the rate the hotel will charge. Alternative accommodations to consider are as follow (ASTA does not have blocks at any of these hotels):

1. Embassy Suites by Hilton La Quinta (1.2 miles from resort)
2. Homewood Suites by Hilton La Quinta (3.3 miles from resort)
3. Residence Inn by Marriott La Quinta (4 miles from resort)
4. Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas (4.9 miles from resort)
5. Renaissance Esmeralda Resort (5.1 miles from resort)

Enhance your company’s presence at 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits through a wide selection of sponsorship and exhibit opportunities. From signature sponsorships to tabletop exhibits and unique exclusive offerings, these options allow organizations to showcase their capabilities, connect with customers and partners, and engage directly with 500+ leaders shaping the global spice trade. Explore the options below to find the visibility and engagement level that best fits your goals.

Signature Sponsorships

Exclusive Sponsorships

Contact ASTA about discounts on bundles if you are interested in more than one opportunity to elevate your brand’s presence.  

To view information about ASTA’s exciting networking events, visit the Networking section.

Please log in before proceeding with online payment.

For check and wire payments, please download the Sponsorship Agreement and follow the instructions.

The Exhibitor Planning Guide answers many frequently asked questions about exhibiting and provides a helpful checklist to help prepare for Palm Springs.

Exhibit space is assigned once payment is received. For check or wire payments, please complete the Exhibitor Contract and email it to [email protected] or print and mail it with your check payment to: 

American Spice Trade Association 1101 17th Street NW, Ste. 700 Washington, DC 20036 USA 

Exhibits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The above floor plan is not presented live and will be updated regularly as commitments are secured. Exhibits are open during meal functions and networking breaks. Exhibit hours may be subject to change.

Questions? Phone: (202) 331-2460 | Email: [email protected]

Make the most of your time at La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs. In addition to ASTA’s planned networking events including golf, evening receptions, and our Charitable Build-a-Bike Challenge, attendees can enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Coachella Valley. Explore nearby nature hikes, unwind at the world-class spa, browse boutique shopping, or discover iconic art and architecture. There’s no shortage of experiences to enhance your visit.

ASTA Golf Tournament

Monday, April 20 | 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm

SOLD OUT!

Join ASTA friends and colleagues for a round of golf on the Dunes Course. This 72 -par course, designed by Pete Dye, offers traditional rolling-links style golf with Scottish and Irish flair, characterized by rolling mounds, manicured fairways and thick rough. The course hosted the PGA Club Professional Championship and the Californian State Open. The fee of $250 includes green costs, a cart with GPS, the use of the practice facility, and a boxed lunch.

The ASTA Golf Tournament is Sold Out. To be added to the wait list, contact Elle Brumley.

Opening Ceremony

Tuesday, April 21 | 4:15pm – 5:00pm

New to the agenda, one you will not want to miss! This opening ceremony will include a traditional welcome to Palm Springs, brief welcome remarks from the ASTA President and a special one-off performance to bring the energy and vibes of Coachella to the ASTA Annual Meeting & Exhibits.

Welcome Reception 

Tuesday, April 21 | 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Reconnect with long-time colleagues, chat with new friends, and connect with the 2026 exhibitors as you enjoy an evening of festival fun. Revel in Coachella inspired festival vibes while mingling in the Exhibit area, enjoying locally inspired food and drinks.

First Timer Fiesta

Tuesday, April 21 | 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

The Membership Outreach committee welcomes all first timers to join this event to help introduce them to the event and make new connections. Enjoy Fiesta inspired food and drinks.

Nightcaps & Networking

Tuesday, April 21 | 10:00 pm – 11:30 pm

Not ready to end your day, then come join others for a final drink at the Associate Groups hosted nightcaps and networking event. Enjoy light nibbles and a nightcap.

Happy Hour with California Wine Tasting

Wednesday, April 22| 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Connect with fellow attendees in the Exhibit area and collect tasting notes while sampling a local collection of wines.

Charitable Build-a-Bike Challenge

Thursday, April 23 | 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Separate registration required

The perfect cure for that Thursday morning hangover! Join us for strong coffee AND for the chance to win coveted bragging rights. Teams will compete against the clock and each other to win bicycle parts to build a fully functional child’s bicycle. All teams will assemble a bike that will be donated to a local children’s charity, making this bonding team activity not only a fun experience but one that will make an impact locally. Prizes will be on offer in addition to those all-important bragging rights.

Closing Reception and Dinner: Old Hollywood The Golden Era

Thursday, April 23 | 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Join the premier social event of the week, marking the close of the industry’s experience together at the event in Palm Springs. Hosted at Greta Garbo’s old home, accept our invitation to join the Hollywood Rat Pack at this star-studded event. Rub shoulders with the stars while enjoying the glamour of Palm Springs with a night full of music, opulent interactive experiences, and free flowing drink and food. Hollywood-inspired attire is encouraged.

Palm Springs isn’t just a sun-soaked desert getaway—it’s a vibrant playground for adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, architectural inspiration, or a relaxing day by the pool, Palm Springs offers an unforgettable array of activities for every traveler.

Outdoor Adventures & Nature 

The desert landscape of Palm Springs provides endless opportunities to explore. Hike the scenic trails of Indian Canyons, where towering palm oases meet rugged desert cliffs. Take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, ascending to Mount San Jacinto State Park for cooler temperatures, panoramic views, and alpine hiking.  

Art, Culture & Architecture

Palm Springs is a living museum of midcentury modern design. Architectural tours showcase iconic homes and commercial spaces by designers like Albert Frey and Richard Neutra, while the Palm Springs Art Museum offers an extensive collection of contemporary and Native American art. Film buffs can explore the city’s glamorous Hollywood connections on curated walking tours highlighting historic theaters, celebrity homes, and iconic landmarks. 

Shopping & Dining 

From upscale boutiques and stylish home décor shops to quirky vintage stores, Palm Springs has something for every shopper. Food lovers can savor everything from gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants to casual café fare in downtown Palm Springs.  

For further things to do, please see here.

Spa

Indulge in the luxury of La Quinta’s Spa – the spa blends the most effective technologies with the world’s best skin care products to bring you an unparalleled experience of beautification, peace, and comfort. For further information and how to book, please see here.

The Board of Directors and Committees will meet throughout the week in Palm Springs. These meetings are closed to Board and Committee Members, as well as invited guests.  If you would like to learn more about leadership, committees, or to be invited to join a committee meeting as guest, please send an email to [email protected].