SAN MARCOS, CA — Fun ’N Sun 2026 brought more than 480+ floral professionals together August 5 – 8 at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, for four memorable days of education, networking, celebration and connection.
Hosted by the newly renamed American Floral Alliance, formerly CalFlowers, the convention brought together growers, wholesalers, retailers, suppliers, educators, designers and industry partners from across the country.
“Fun ’N Sun has always been about bringing our floral community together, and this year was truly something special,” said Lane DeVries, President of American Floral Alliance. “The energy throughout the week was incredible. As we begin this exciting new chapter as American Floral Alliance, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 85-year history and the bright future ahead of us.”
Among the week’s highlights was the sold-out Exclusive Industry Tour, which welcomed more than 172 participants. Attendees visited The Original Los Angeles Flower Market and The Southern California Flower Market before heading to Fiesta Productions for a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and craftsmanship behind its Tournament of Roses Parade floats. American Floral Alliance extends its sincere appreciation to all three organizations for opening their doors and creating such a memorable experience.
The convention also marked the return of the Distinguished Service Award, presented to Harrison “Red” Kennicott III, Chairman of Kennicott Brothers Company, in recognition of his extraordinary leadership, service and lifelong contributions to the floral industry. American Floral Alliance was also honored with the 2026 AFE Ambassador Award from the American Floral Endowment.
Another historic moment came Thursday evening with the official unveiling of American Floral Alliance, the new name and identity of CalFlowers, reflecting the organization’s growth from its California roots into a national floral industry organization.
“Unveiling American Floral Alliance surrounded by so many of our members and industry friends made the moment even more meaningful,” said Robin van der Schaaf, Board Chair, pictured left with Lisa Filice, Board Co-Chair) “We are proud of where this organization has been, but even more excited about where we are going.”
The success of Fun ’N Sun would not have been possible without its sponsors, floral contributors, hardgoods partners, exhibitors, volunteers and industry supporters. A special thank-you goes to Floral Trade Distributors, whose tremendous logistical support transporting flowers, booths and materials was essential to the convention.
Click here to see all our 2026 sponsors and partners.
“Seeing Fun ’N Sun come to life was incredibly rewarding,” said Lisa Filice, Fun ’N Sun Co-Chair. “None of it happens without an amazing team of sponsors, partners, volunteers, exhibitors, speakers, staff and attendees.”
“What I will remember most is the incredible sense of community we felt throughout the week,” added Cagney Miller, Fun ’N Sun Co-Chair. “Seeing how much everyone enjoyed the experience made all the hard work worthwhile.”
The impact continued after the convention when remaining flowers were donated to Pink Clover Flowers / Pink Clover Foundation and used in a special floral design class for breast cancer patients on August 10—giving the flowers a meaningful second life and another opportunity to spread joy.
American Floral Alliance extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and everyone who helped make Fun ’N Sun 2026 possible.
Relive Fun ’N Sun 2026 and view photos from the convention:
https://calflowers.smugmug.com/FNS2026
