The counterculture industry’s biggest event returned to Las Vegas this February. From February 12 to 15, the Las Vegas Convention Center hosted thousands of vendors and hundreds of thousands of brands. CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas Winter once again proved why it’s the top choice for smoke shops, dispensaries, vape lounges, and specialty retailers who want to find cutting edge products and connect with industry leaders.
A Lineage of Excellence Since 1999
CHAMPS Trade Shows has been the heart of counterculture commerce in America for over 20 years. Every year, the show hits major cities across the country. Hundreds of exhibitors meet face to face with thousands of buyers from around the world. This creates a dynamic marketplace that drives the trade forward.
The Las Vegas Winter show delivered big. It featured an outstanding lineup of manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, glass artists, inventors, and suppliers. They showcased a huge selection of products:
- Smoking accessories
- Counterculture products
- Clothing
- Hand blown glass
- Specialty gifts
Who Attends CHAMPS?
CHAMPS provides a platform for different businesses across the counterculture industry. Here’s who shows up:
- Smoke Shops and Head Shops
- Vape Shops and Lounges
- Dispensaries
- Adult Boutiques
- Novelty Stores
- Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
- Hookah Lounges
- Glass Artists
- Mycology Stores
- Digital 420 Shops
CHAMPS carefully verifies all buyers. Their dedicated staff makes certain that every attendee genuinely represents one or more retail stores. This quality control creates a professional environment where real business relationships can grow.
The Glass Games Spectacle
The Glass Games competition was one of the most exciting parts of CHAMPS Las Vegas Winter. This event runs year round across multiple shows and ends each year with the Glass Games Masters Competition. That’s where they crown the Top Glass Artist of the Year.
The 2025 Masters Final was spectacular. Twenty seven top artists from across America competed for a $20,000 grand prize. The theme was “Ignite the Surreal,” inspired by Hieronymus Bosch’s famous painting “The Garden of Earthly Delights.” Artists had 14 hours to work with flame and glass, plus 7 hours to prepare their displays.
The contest was fierce. Here are the results:
- 1st Place: Zach P (aka OUCHKICK)
- 2nd Place: Phil Siegel
- 3rd Place: Hoobs
- 4th Place: Windstar
- 5th Place: Rocko
- 6th Place: Takoda Madrona
- 7th Place: Ryno
- 8th Place: Carsten Carlile
Phil Siegel also won the Artist Choice award, which was voted on by competitors. Windstar captured the People’s Choice award from show attendees. The displays left everyone speechless. Judges AKM, Mike Luna, and Peter Muller faced the tough job of ranking all this incredible talent.
Why Retailers Can’t Afford to Miss CHAMPS
CHAMPS is a game changer for retailers who want to stay ahead. Here’s what the show offers:
Exclusive Access
You’ll discover the latest trends and breakthroughs before they hit the mainstream market. Watch live glass art competitions and demonstrations. See the cutting edge of artistic technique and product design.
Verified Networking
Connect directly with verified manufacturers and distributors. This ensures legitimate business opportunities and partnerships.
Free Admission
CHAMPS is always 100% free for qualified buyers. This makes it available for businesses of all sizes.
Cash Incentives
Preregister to win cash just for attending. At the Las Vegas Summer show, one lucky buyer wins $10,000.
International Reach
CHAMPS attracts buyers from across the globe. Strong groups come from the United States, Canada, and beyond. This creates opportunities to expand your market and build global partnerships.
The Exhibitor Advantage
Vendors also benefit significantly from CHAMPS. The show offers an unmatched opportunity to showcase products and connect with varied audiences. The event’s reputation for innovation proves it is key for businesses that want to lead the counterculture industry.
Major sponsors include DemandVape, Mellow Fellow, and JBrands. CHAMPS provides exhibitors with a unique platform to broaden their reach, gain valuable insights, and forge partnerships that drive growth.
A Relaxed Yet High Energy Atmosphere
CHAMPS stands out for blending professional business with a relaxed, spirited vibe. The show floor teems with activity. Buyers discover new products. Artists demonstrate their skills. Industry professionals impart insights and make connections.
The verification process keeps things professional. But it also retains the welcoming, community focused spirit that has made CHAMPS beloved in the counterculture space.
Looking Ahead
CHAMPS continues its nationwide tour with shows coming to these cities:
- Atlantic City
- Chicago
- Austin
- Fort Lauderdale
Each show builds on the success of the last. They offer new chances for discovery, connection, and growth.
Missed the Las Vegas Winter show? The next Las Vegas event runs May 6 to 9, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Mark your calendar now. You don’t want to miss this.
The Bottom Line
CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas Winter 2025 proved its spot as America’s premier B2B counterculture expo. Record numbers of buyers showed up. Exhibitor activity thrived. The Glass Games competitions were jaw dropping. The event delivered everything the industry expected and more.
Whether you’re a retailer stocking shelves, a vendor expanding distribution, or an artist displaying talent, CHAMPS has what you need. The platform. The connections. The opportunities.
Ready to Join?
Visit champstradeshows.com for information on upcoming shows, registration, and hotel deals.
Main details:
- Free to attend for qualified buyers
- Registration required
- Must be 18 years or older
Don’t simply take our word for it. Join the tens of thousands of industry professionals who’ve made CHAMPS their event of choice. Your business deserves the CHAMPS advantage.