With Vision Expo exiting New York, a new wave of independent-focused events is emerging, offering fresh opportunities.
NEOS Washington 2026
October 18 @ 10:00 - 17:00
NEOS Washington 2026
Independent Eyewear Comes Together in Washington DC
October 18, 2026
Union Market District, Washington DC
NEOS Washington 2026 brings the North East Optical Show to Union Market District in Washington DC, creating a relaxed and focused platform for independent optical retailers, eyewear collections, labs and vendors. Built around connection, autonomy and discovery, NEOS offers an alternative trade show experience for professionals who want to strengthen their independent business.
Square meters
Exhibitors
Visitors
Why NEOS Matters for Independent Optical Retailers
The North East Optical Show (NEOS) is a novel optical trade show, designed to highlight independent optical collections and encourage networking within the optical community. The main objective of NEOS is to assist optical professionals in reclaiming their independence by offering a distinctive platform. This platform is aimed at independent frame collections, labs, and other optical-related services to collaborate and prosper in a relaxed ambiance complemented with music and refreshments throughout the day. With over 80 collections and more than 400 attendees gathered at one location, NEOS presents an unmatched opportunity for discovery and connection.
In the wake of the pandemic, the North East Optical Show (NEOS) was established. Initiated as a gathering during these challenging times, it served as a networking platform for two representatives, both proprietors of optical stores.
Their aim was more than just networking—it was to bring a semblance of normality to a radically altered period. As word spread about NEOS, interest surged, and within weeks, it grew from a casual dinner at a restaurant to a large-scale event held at the Renaissance Hotel in Providence, RI, featuring over 50 collections.
This transformation occurred on April 23, 2022. Joanna and Jessica, the founders of NEOS, both represent independent companies and exclusively stock independent collections in their stores.
“We encourage you, as a small independent business, to collaborate with other independent vendors, showcasing these collections to regain or maintain your independence. This initiative allows you to retain full control over your future business direction.”
NEOS stands at the cutting edge of revolutionizing the optical trade show landscape, particularly focusing on independent eyewear collections. The open plan layout and restricted table count ensure an even competition, facilitating a one-of-a-kind platform for representatives and buyers to establish connections, thus cultivating novel alliances and synergies. With a cap of two collections per table spread across roughly 45 tables, the show proudly exhibits the most extensive range of independent eyewear nationwide. The exposition is accessible to all professionals within the optical industry, irrespective of their tenure.
NEOS Washington 2026 – Event Details
| Date | October 18, 2026 |
| Location | Washington DC, United States |
| Venue | Union Market District |
| Organizer | North East Optical Show |
| Event Type | Independent Optical Trade Show |
| Focus | Independent eyewear collections, optical retailers, labs, vendors and industry networking |
| Exhibition Space | 1,850 square meters |
| Exhibitors | 45 exhibitors |
| Visitors | 500 visitors |
| Collections | 80+ independent collections |
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