List of Ecommerce Events in San Antonio – 2025

San Antonio's ecommerce and digital marketing event scene offers valuable opportunities for online retailers, marketing professionals, and business owners throughout 2025. From major digital marketing conferences to free startup networking weeks, the city hosts diverse programming spanning retail technology, shopper insights, and customer engagement strategies. For businesses looking to maximize their event attendance ROI, tools like Opensend Connect help capture and convert high-intent website visitors generated from conference networking and post-event marketing campaigns. Whether you're seeking industry education, vendor connections, or professional development, this guide covers the essential ecommerce events in San Antonio and the greater Texas region.
Key Takeaways
- San Antonio hosts 6 major ecommerce and digital marketing events in 2025, with peak activity in October
- DigiMarCon San Antonio serves as the primary digital marketing conference, featuring AI, email marketing, and conversion optimization sessions
- San Antonio Startup Week offers free attendance for entrepreneurs and ecommerce professionals across 5 days
- The Henry B. González Convention Center hosts multiple large-scale retail and technology trade shows throughout the year
- October concentrates 3 major events, creating opportunities for multi-event attendance in a single trip
- The Running Event brings 360+ exhibiting brands to San Antonio in December for run specialty retail
1. Texas Package Stores Association Annual Meeting
The Texas Package Stores Association transforms the Henry B. González Convention Center into a beverage retail showcase during its three-day annual meeting. While industry-specific, this trade show demonstrates the scale of retail events San Antonio regularly hosts and offers valuable insights into retail operations, customer experience, and inventory management applicable across ecommerce categories.
Event Details:
- Date: July 26-28, 2025
- Venue: Henry B. González Convention Center, 900 E. Market Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Format: In-person trade show and conference
- Contact: Convention Center (210) 207-8500
Programming Highlights:
- Educational seminars on retail operations and point-of-sale technology
- Keynote sessions from industry leaders on consumer trends
- Expansive trade show floor with supplier exhibits and product demonstrations
- Networking events connecting retailers and distributors
- Workshops on compliance, inventory management, and customer engagement
The event brings together industry leaders, suppliers, policymakers, retailers, and distributors for comprehensive programming spanning education, product discovery, and business development. For ecommerce professionals, the retail operations insights and customer engagement strategies presented offer cross-industry applications, particularly in areas like first-party data collection and customer loyalty programs.
2. San Antonio Startup Week 2025
San Antonio Startup Week celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025 with five days of free programming across multiple downtown venues. This community-driven event offers unmatched networking value for ecommerce entrepreneurs, startup founders, and professionals seeking to connect with San Antonio's growing tech ecosystem.
Event Details:
- Date: October 13-17, 2025
- Primary Hub: Geekdom, 131 Soledad Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Additional Venues: Home2 Suites, Embassy Suites Riverwalk, Legacy Park, Launch SA (Central Library), Weston Commons
- Format: In-person, FREE admission
- Registration: sasw.co (pre-registration encouraged)
Programming Features:
- Headline keynotes from successful entrepreneurs and business leaders
- Unique track sessions across business topics including ecommerce, marketing, and technology
- Actionable workshops for immediate implementation in your business
- Special community events and networking mixers
- Panel discussions on funding, growth strategies, and market expansion
- Hours: 9:00 AM start daily, Monday-Friday
Transportation & Logistics:
- Free hop-on/hop-off shuttle between venues throughout the week
- VIA Transit partnership offering discounted rates for attendees
- Schedule released approximately 1 month before event on sasw.co
- Downtown San Antonio walkable venue distribution (most venues within 1-mile radius)
- Parking available at multiple downtown garages with day rates
Pre-Event Programming:
- SA Gaming Summit: October 12, 2025 at Geekdom
- Focus: Students, indie developers, educators, streamers, and gaming entrepreneurs
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Free admission with pre-registration
San Antonio Startup Week represents the highest-ROI event for budget-conscious professionals, offering extensive networking with entrepreneurs, investors, service providers, and business leaders at zero cost. The week-long format allows for deeper relationship building compared to typical two-day conferences. Post-event follow-up becomes critical—tools like Opensend Reconnect help unify contact identities across devices for personalized outreach to connections made during the week.
Why Attend San Antonio Startup Week:
- Zero cost barrier: Completely free attendance eliminates financial risk
- Local ecosystem access: Connect with San Antonio's investors, mentors, and service providers
- Practical workshops: Immediately implementable strategies for ecommerce and digital marketing
- Diverse perspectives: Track sessions spanning technology, retail, services, and social impact
- Celebration atmosphere: 10th anniversary programming with special events and recognition
3. DigiMarCon South / DigiMarCon San Antonio 2025
DigiMarCon San Antonio stands as the region's premier digital marketing conference, featuring two days of intensive programming under the theme "The Future is Now: Innovate, Adapt, Dominate." This event delivers comprehensive coverage of modern marketing technologies and strategies essential for ecommerce success.
Event Details:
- Date: October 20-21, 2025
- Venue: The Westin San Antonio North, 9821 Colonnade Boulevard, San Antonio, TX 78230
- Format: In-person + Virtual options
- Contact: (210) 691-8888 or toll-free 1-800-843-6664
- Registration: digimarconsanantonio.com
Conference Topics:
- AI & ChatGPT applications in marketing and content creation
- Marketing Automation and workflow optimization
- Account-Based Marketing (ABM) strategies for B2B ecommerce
- Content Marketing and storytelling techniques
- Conversion Rate Optimization techniques for online stores
- Data Science for marketing decisions and customer analytics
- Email Marketing best practices and deliverability
- Influencer Marketing partnerships and authenticity
- Mobile Marketing strategies and app engagement
- Paid Search and PPC optimization across platforms
- SEO and organic visibility in competitive markets
- Social Media marketing and community building
- Video Marketing production and distribution
- Voice Search optimization for product discovery
Pass Options:
- Main Conference pass: Access to all keynotes and breakout sessions
- All Access pass: Conference plus networking events and bonus materials
- VIP pass: Premium seating, exclusive networking, and concierge services
- Virtual attendance: Live streaming with on-demand replay access
The conference includes access to the co-located TECHSPO Technology Expo, providing additional value for attendees exploring marketing technology solutions. The Westin venue offers over 38,000 sq ft of versatile event space with 9 meeting rooms and 326 guest rooms for convenient stays.
Who Should Attend:
- Ecommerce managers and directors
- Digital marketing professionals
- Marketing agency teams
- CMOs and marketing executives
- Content creators and strategists
- SEO and SEM specialists
- Social media managers
- Business owners managing their own marketing
4. TECHSPO San Antonio 2025
TECHSPO San Antonio runs simultaneously with DigiMarCon, transforming the exhibit hall into a showcase of AdTech, MarTech, and SaaS innovations. This technology expo provides hands-on access to solutions that power modern ecommerce operations.
Event Details:
- Date: October 20-21, 2025
- Venue: The Westin San Antonio North, 9821 Colonnade Boulevard, San Antonio, TX 78230
- Format: In-person exhibition with live demonstrations
- Access: Included with DigiMarCon passes or separate registration available
Expo Focus Areas:
- AdTech platforms: Programmatic advertising, retargeting, and attribution solutions
- MarTech tools: Marketing automation platforms, CRM systems, and analytics dashboards
- Internet and mobile technologies: Progressive web apps, mobile optimization, and responsive design
- SaaS platforms: Business operations software, project management, and collaboration tools
- Technology showcases: Live demonstrations, product trials, and hands-on testing
- AI and machine learning: Predictive analytics, personalization engines, and chatbot platforms
Benefits of Attending:
- Compare multiple vendors in a single location
- Receive live product demonstrations from company representatives
- Negotiate show-special pricing and extended trial periods
- Ask technical questions to implementation specialists
- Gather research for technology stack decisions
- Network with other professionals evaluating similar solutions
For ecommerce professionals evaluating marketing technology investments, TECHSPO provides valuable vendor comparison opportunities within a concentrated timeframe. The ability to see demonstrations, ask questions, and compare solutions side-by-side accelerates the technology selection process.
5. The Running Event 2025
The Running Event brings run and outdoor specialty retail professionals to San Antonio for three days of industry programming, featuring 360+ exhibiting brands across 100,000+ sq ft of exhibit space. This trade show demonstrates ecommerce and retail operations principles applicable across product categories.
Event Details:
- Date: December 2-4, 2025
- Venue: Henry B. González Convention Center, 900 E. Market Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Format: In-person trade show and conference
- Registration: xpressreg.net/register/trec1225
Event Schedule:
Tuesday, December 2:
- Registration opens 7:00 AM
- RIA Member Meeting for Running Industry Association members
- Conference sessions throughout the day covering retail trends
- Opening Party: 6:00-7:30 PM with exhibitor previews
- Exhibit hall closed for setup
Wednesday, December 3:
- Exhibit hall: 8:30 AM-6:30 PM (peak attendance day)
- Training Camp Theater: 9:00 AM-5:30 PM with rotating presentations
- Educational sessions on retail operations and customer engagement
- Happy Hour: 5:00-6:30 PM on show floor
- RIDC Cookout: 6:30-10:00 PM (Run Indie Dealer Collective networking event)
Thursday, December 4:
- Indie 5K: 7:00 AM start (fun run for attendees)
- Exhibit hall: 8:30 AM-4:00 PM (final day for orders)
- Last chance sessions and closing activities
- Industry Awards: 6:00-7:00 PM recognizing excellence in specialty retail
Additional Features:
- Switchback integration: Outdoor brands showcase alongside run specialty
- TRE LIVE coverage: FloSports provides event streaming and content
- Best Running Stores awards: Recognition ceremony for top specialty retailers
- Educational programming: Sessions on inventory management, customer service, omnichannel retail
- Networking events: Multiple opportunities throughout the three days
Cross-Industry Ecommerce Insights:
While focused on run specialty, The Running Event offers valuable lessons for all ecommerce professionals:
- Product merchandising: How specialty retailers curate and present product assortments
- Customer experience: Building loyalty in competitive online/offline environments
- Omnichannel strategies: Integrating physical and digital retail experiences
- Inventory management: Balancing selection with cash flow requirements
- Community building: Creating brand communities that drive repeat business
The event represents a 7% increase in exhibitors from 2024, reflecting industry growth and expanded product showcases. For ecommerce professionals, observing how specialty retailers approach customer relationships provides insights applicable to online-only businesses seeking to build similar loyalty.
6. Bexar County Business Conference 2025
The Bexar County Business Conference celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025 with a full-day program focused on technology adoption and public-private sector collaboration at Freeman Expo Hall.
Event Details:
- Date: December 10, 2025
- Time: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Venue: Freeman Expo Hall, 3201 E. Houston Street, San Antonio, TX 78219
- Format: In-person workshops and vendor exhibits
- Registration: Via Bexar County website
Conference Programming:
- Technology workshops: Effective technology use in business operations
- Vendor education sessions: Product demonstrations and capability presentations
- CPS Energy Veterans Business & Resource Center: Support for veteran-owned businesses
- Public and private sector networking: Connect with government procurement professionals
- Small business resources: Access to financing, training, and support programs
- Procurement opportunities: Learn about contracting with local government entities
Why Attend:
- Government contracting insights: Understanding public sector procurement processes
- Technology evaluation: Compare business solutions from regional vendors
- Networking opportunities: Connect with Bexar County business community
- Resource access: Discover support programs for business growth
- Anniversary programming: Special 25th anniversary speakers and recognition
This single-day event targets local businesses seeking technology solutions and government contract opportunities, with programming spanning from early morning through mid-afternoon. The focus on technology adoption and efficiency aligns with ecommerce businesses' needs for operational excellence.
Completed 2025 Events (Plan for 2026)
Two significant events have already occurred in 2025 but warrant attention for 2026 planning:
Cvent CONNECT 2025 (Completed)
- 2025 Dates: June 9-12, 2025
- Venue: Henry B. González Convention Center
- Attendance: 3,500+ customers and partners with 200+ exhibitors
- Focus: Event management technology, venue sourcing, attendee engagement
- Note: Cvent CONNECT 2026 moves to Nashville (July 13-16, 2026)
NAED Marketing Summit 2025 (Completed)
- 2025 Dates: August 4-6, 2025
- Venue: InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk
- Focus: B2B marketing transformation, sales alignment, AI applications
- Programming: Keynotes, Mastery Labs, Activation Labs, networking events
- Target Audience: Electrical and industrial distribution marketing professionals
San Antonio's Convention Infrastructure
San Antonio's ability to host major ecommerce and retail events stems from world-class convention facilities:
Henry B. González Convention Center
- Total Space: 1.4 million square feet
- Exhibit Space: 440,000 square feet
- Meeting Rooms: 100+ flexible spaces
- Capacity: Up to 32,000 attendees
- Location: Downtown San Antonio near River Walk
- Advantages: Walking distance to 14,000+ hotel rooms, restaurants, entertainment
The Westin San Antonio North
- Event Space: Over 38,000 square feet of versatile meeting space
- Meeting Rooms: 9 flexible configurations
- Guest Rooms: 326 on-site accommodations
- Location: North San Antonio near La Cantera shopping district
- Advantages: Suburban setting with ample parking, modern facilities
JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa
- Event Space: 268,000 square feet across 27 meeting rooms
- Guest Rooms: 1,002 rooms and suites
- Location: Northwest San Antonio resort setting
- Advantages: Self-contained resort environment, golf course, extensive amenities
Maximizing Your San Antonio Event ROI
Attending ecommerce events generates value beyond the sessions themselves. Strategic preparation and follow-up multiply returns on your time and investment.
Pre-Event Preparation:
- Review speaker lists and session descriptions to prioritize attendance and identify must-see presentations
- Research exhibitors relevant to your business challenges and schedule booth visits
- Schedule one-on-one meetings through event apps or direct outreach to speakers and vendors
- Prepare talking points and business cards for networking efficiency
- Set specific goals for leads, partnerships, or knowledge areas you want to address
- Download event apps to access schedules, networking features, and real-time updates
- Book accommodations early at host hotels for convenience and networking opportunities
- Plan your schedule with buffer time between sessions for networking and mental processing
During Event Best Practices:
- Arrive early to sessions for best seating and speaker access
- Take strategic notes focusing on actionable takeaways rather than transcription
- Engage in Q&A to build visibility and clarify implementation questions
- Visit exhibitor booths with specific questions about your use cases
- Attend networking events even if you're introverted—these create the most valuable connections
- Share insights on social media to build your professional brand and attract connections
- Exchange contacts with people who share similar challenges or complementary services
- Take photos of slides, booth displays, and materials for later reference
Post-Event Engagement:
- Follow up with new connections within 48 hours while conversations remain fresh
- Implement session insights within 2 weeks for maximum retention and momentum
- Share learnings with team members who couldn't attend through presentations or documentation
- Evaluate vendors and solutions discovered at trade shows using structured comparison criteria
- Document ROI metrics for future event attendance decisions including leads generated, partnerships formed, and knowledge gained
- Create action plans from workshop insights with specific deadlines and ownership
- Nurture relationships beyond immediate follow-up with periodic check-ins
For businesses generating website traffic from event exposure, lead generation tools help capture and convert visitors who research your brand after meeting you at conferences. Building systems to grow email lists ensures event connections translate into long-term customer relationships.
Measuring Event ROI:
Calculate your event ROI by tracking:
- Direct revenue: Sales attributed to event connections
- Pipeline value: Qualified opportunities in your sales pipeline
- Cost savings: Vendor discoveries that reduce operational costs
- Time savings: Process improvements learned from sessions
- Network value: Quality of relationships formed
- Knowledge gains: Implementation of new strategies
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest ecommerce events in San Antonio in 2025?
The biggest ecommerce and digital marketing events in San Antonio for 2025 include DigiMarCon San Antonio (October 20-21) featuring comprehensive digital marketing programming, San Antonio Startup Week (October 13-17) offering free five-day entrepreneurship programming, and The Running Event (December 2-4) with 360+ exhibiting brands. TECHSPO San Antonio (October 20-21) runs alongside DigiMarCon, providing hands-on access to marketing technology solutions. October concentrates on three major events, making it the peak month for ecommerce-related programming in the city.
Are there any free ecommerce events in San Antonio?
Yes, San Antonio Startup Week (October 13-17, 2025) offers completely free admission across five days of programming at multiple downtown venues including Geekdom, Embassy Suites Riverwalk, and Launch SA. Pre-registration at sasw.co is encouraged but not required. The event celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025 and includes keynotes, workshops, and extensive networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and ecommerce professionals seeking budget-friendly professional development. The week also includes free shuttle service between venues.
How do I find ecommerce networking events near San Antonio?
For ecommerce networking events near San Antonio, check DigiMarCon San Antonio for October programming and sasw.co for Startup Week details. The Bexar County website lists the annual Business Conference. Most venues maintain event calendars including the Henry B. González Convention Center website for upcoming marketing and retail conferences. Local business organizations like the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and tech communities like Geekdom provide ongoing event notifications.
What should I bring to a multi-day conference in San Antonio?
Essential items for San Antonio conferences include business cards, a portable phone charger, comfortable walking shoes for venue navigation, and professional attire appropriate for networking events. October temperatures average 60-80°F with potential for both warm afternoons and cooler evenings, so layered clothing works best. December events require warmer options for evening events. Bring a clear bag meeting security requirements for convention center events, a refillable water bottle, and any presentation materials for scheduled meetings. Most venues offer Wi-Fi, but confirming connectivity needs in advance is recommended.
How far in advance should I register for San Antonio ecommerce events?
Register for San Antonio events 1-3 months in advance for best pricing and hotel availability. DigiMarCon San Antonio typically offers early bird pricing 2-3 months before the October event. San Antonio Startup Week encourages pre-registration but accepts walk-ups. The Running Event (industry trade show) requires pre-registration through their portal. Major events during peak seasons (October, December) see hotel rooms at host venues book 2-3 months early. For guaranteed access and lowest pricing, register when event registration opens, typically 3-4 months prior.
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