Bold Optical Fair 2026
10 Years of Bringing Optics Together
Some trade shows grow bigger over the years. Others grow into something the industry genuinely looks forward to. Over the past decade, BOLD Optical Fair has become exactly that, a celebration of eyewear, creativity, friendships, and the people who continue to shape independent optics across Europe, while creating one of the most vibrant and recognisable gatherings in the international optical industry.
On 6 and 7 September 2026, that spirit reaches a new milestone with the tenth anniversary edition of BOLD XXL at the Brabanthallen. What started years ago as an ambitious Dutch fair has evolved into one of the most energetic gatherings in optics, now bringing together the worlds of BOLD, Centrop, and Hall of Frames under one roof for the fourth time.
This anniversary edition is not simply about looking back. It is about celebrating how far the fair has come, and how many people from across the optical industry now come together through it.
BOLD Optical Fair 2026 Expands Beyond Borders
Since the launch of the XXL concept, the fair has seen strong growth in both exhibitors and visitors, with opticians from Belgium and Germany increasingly travelling to Den Bosch specifically for the event.
Recent editions welcomed more than 500 optical professionals from neighbouring countries alone, proving that BOLD XXL is becoming far more than a Dutch optical trade show. It has evolved into a European meeting point where established names, independent eyewear brands, and exciting newcomers all share the same floor.
That international growth is driven largely by the fair’s carefully balanced brand mix. Visitors can expect familiar industry names alongside collections appearing in the Netherlands for the very first time. Several exhibitors are even preparing exclusive launches specifically for BOLD Optical Fair 2026, saving new collections for this anniversary edition.
BOLD Optical Fair 2026 Expands Beyond Borders
“Anyone who attended the unforgettable 2023 Utrecht edition still remembers the atmosphere. The hottest September days ever recorded in the Netherlands, crowded terraces, packed aisles, and conversations continuing long after closing time. It became one of those editions people in optics still talk about years later.”
That energy remains central to the identity of BOLD. Suppliers reconnect with longtime clients, independent opticians discover new collections, and meetings naturally turn into dinners, drinks, and lasting partnerships. It is business, but with the relaxed atmosphere that has always made BOLD feel different. For many visitors, that combination is exactly what keeps them coming back year after year.
BOLD XXL Celebrates Ten Years With a Purpose
To mark the tenth anniversary, the organisation is also launching a charity lottery supporting three good causes nominated directly by exhibitors and visitors. Tickets will be available throughout both fair days, with prize draws taking place at the end of each day.
It adds another layer to an event that has always focused not only on eyewear, but also on the people behind the industry itself.
BOLD Optical Fair 2026 Event Details
What: BOLD XXL, 10th anniversary edition of BOLD Optical Fair
When: Sunday 6 and Monday 7 September 2026
Where: Brabanthallen
For: Optical entrepreneurs, opticians, optometrists and contact lens specialists
Visitors can explore participating brands, nominate a charity, and request free tickets via BOLD Optical Fair.
About Bold Optical Fair
BOLD Optical Fair 2026
BOLD XXL Eyewear Trade Show Netherlands
September 6-7, 2026
De Brabanthallen, Den Bosch, The Netherlands
BOLD Optical Fair 2026, also known as BOLD XXL, is the Netherlands’ leading independent eyewear and optics trade show. Hosted at De Brabanthallen in Den Bosch, the fair brings together passionate designers, opticians, and innovators. Known for its creative spirit and welcoming atmosphere, BOLD XXL is the meeting point for independent brands that push the boundaries of design and quality.
Square meters
Brands
Visitors 2024
BOLD Optical Fair 2026 will offer much more than a standard optical trade fair in the Netherlands. This edition will feature a wide selection of independent eyewear brands, exclusive product launches, and inspiring presentations that highlight both creativity and craftsmanship. By bringing together opticians, designers, and international exhibitors, BOLD XXL 2026 in Den Bosch creates a platform where business opportunities meet artistic vision. For professionals eager to explore the latest eyewear trends, it is the event that sets the tone for the coming season.
Key Facts Bold Optical Fair 2026: Dates and Location
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Dates: September 6-7, 2026
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Venue: De Brabanthallen, ’s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), Netherlands
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Focus: Independent eyewear & optics
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Audience: Opticians, designers, brand owners, eyewear retailers
Why BOLD XXL 2026 is the Place to Be
Every year, BOLD XXL transforms De Brabanthallen into the creative hub of the eyewear world. Unlike mass-market exhibitions, Bold Optical Fair is dedicated to showcasing independent eyewear brands that combine craftsmanship, originality, and passion.
"With so many confirmed brands, new elements, and the trusted BOLD ambiance, BOLD XXL is once again shaping up to be the optical event of the year."
At BOLD Optical Fair 2025, visitors will discover new collections, connect with designers in an intimate setting, and be inspired by the diversity of independent eyewear. This is not just an optical trade fair in the Netherlands; it’s a celebration of the artistry and innovation that define true eyewear culture.
Eyewear Trends at Bold Optical Fair 2025
The fair is a hotspot for spotting upcoming eyewear trends. From bold color statements to minimalist frames, sustainable materials, and avant-garde silhouettes, BOLD XXL has become the stage where tomorrow’s eyewear directions are first revealed. Opticians attending gain valuable insights into trends that will soon reach their own stores.
Networking and Community Spirit
Bold Optical Fair 2025 offers a unique, welcoming atmosphere where professionals connect on a personal level. Whether you are a store owner, designer, or brand representative, the fair provides a space for building collaborations, sharing ideas, and celebrating the independent eyewear community.
Highlights of BOLD Optical Fair 2026 (BOLD XXL)
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Independent Brands
Meet some of the most creative and disruptive eyewear designers. -
Product Launches
Be the first to see new collections unveiled for the season. -
Networking Opportunities
Intimate setting for meaningful business connections. -
Inspirational Setting
De Brabanthallen offers a spacious, accessible venue in the Netherlands.
Staying Connected with Bold Optical Fair
The conversation continues beyond the fair. With regular updates, digital features, and media coverage by platforms like TEF Magazine, the Bold XXL Optical Fair keeps the independent eyewear community connected all year round.
More news on BOLD
CLUB BIZARRE // The Underground Awaits
TEF Magazine launches the Club Bizarre eyewear exposition, a dark, immersive stage for avant-garde frames, wearable eyewear art and designs that refuse to behave.
Bold Light 2026 // Targeted Purchasing and Networking
Bold Light 2026 in Den Bosch once again proved the value of focused industry gatherings, where opticians can concentrate on targeted purchasing and meaningful networking.
Bold Light 2026 // A Fresh Spring Edition Reimagined
Bold Light 2026 marks a refreshed spring edition of the Bold Optical Fair, bringing a compact format, a newly renovated industrial hall and a strong mix of over one hundred brands. The event focuses on clarity, creativity and efficient buying for opticians preparing their spring collections. With 70 percent already booked, this edition promises renewed energy and a sharp start to the season.
BOLD XXL 2025 // The Benelux Optical Trade Show That Connects the Industry
BOLD XXL 2025 brought the optical industry together in Den Bosch on September 7–8. As the largest optical trade show in the Benelux, it offered inspiration, innovation, and community through spaces like the Luxury Lounge and Ooggezondheidsplein. Independent opticians and global brands alike valued the Bold Optical Fair as the ideal place to network, buy new collections, and strengthen connections.
BOLD XXL 2025 // Bigger, Bolder, Brabanthallen
Join us at BOLD XXL 2025 on September 7–8 in Den Bosch. With over 335 brands and the all-new Eyecare Square for modern optical talks, this vibrant show remains a personal favorite and a must for every independent optician.
Bold Light // A Curated Showcase of Eyewear Excellence
Bold Light is set for March 24, 2025, at the 1931 Congress Centre in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, featuring over 135 brands.
TEFtalkBOLD // FFIN Eyewear
I sit down with the brilliant Anna Lewis, the creative force behind the award-winning independent eyewear brand FFIN, to discuss her latest retro-inspired frame design. Known for pushing the boundaries of eyewear design, Anna shares how she combines vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge materials and technology to create this bold, modern frame that is both stylish and functional.
BOLD XXL // International Allure in the Dutch World of Optics
On 8 and 9 September 2024, the Brabanthallen transformed into the epicenter of the optics world, hosting BOLD XXL, the premier optics trade fair of the Benelux region—and beyond! With over 360 brands and an impressive turnout of 2,772 visitors (including 376 from Germany and 147 from Belgium), this year’s event was nothing short of a triumph.
BOLD XXL // Uniting the optical world
At the heart of the Dutch optical scene, BOLD XXL stands as a beacon of unity. This esteemed tradeshow is all set to unveil the best of what’s new in the industry this year.
BOLD XXL // Experiencing Excellence on a Grand Scale
The much-anticipated Bold Optical Fair is not simply another run-of-the-mill event. It’s a spectacular showcase of more than 340 distinctive brands. The fair features an expansive BOLD stage, a dynamic experience square captivating attendees, and a dedicated restaurant for the utmost comfort. Offering a variety of engaging activities, this fair transcends being just a show – it’s a bona fide experience.
