World Architecture Festival is an event like no other. It is the only global architecture festival that combines a unique live-judged awards programme, seminars and networking. By attending WAF, you will gain inspiration for your own work from the leading architects of the most innovative projects.
Download your copy of this year's festival guide! Including the speaker line-up, finalist presentations, fringe events and ticket options.
What's on
What's On Panel
Keynotes and talks
Gain knowledge from expert speakers & presenters from around the world across two stages. This year’s conference explores the theme 'Water.' View the programme and speakers here.
Live awards judging
Hear from the judges on each project as you view hundreds of live pitches from your peers in 16 crit rooms! View the schedule here.Gala Dinner
On Friday 20 November, celebrate your team's achievements and the overall winners at the Gala Dinner. Taking place at the Broward County Convention Center from 7pm. Seats are included as part of the Premium Ticket, or you can book tables and individual seats separately. The Gala Dinner drinks reception is supported by Della Townships.
Welcome reception
Supported by Della Townships
All WAF delegates are invited to join us for welcome drinks on the Tuesday before the festival to kick off the week in style, and a chance to collect your delegate badge early. Taking place at the Broward Beach Convention Center.New location for 2026
Welcome to Fort Lauderdale for World Architecture Festival 2026
World Architecture Festival 2026 returns to Greater Miami, this time in an exciting new location, Fort Lauderdale. Often described as the 'Venice of North America', Fort Lauderdale boasts 165 miles of inland waterways, a spectacular natural feature that shapes the city’s character and lifestyle. The waterways attract residents and visitors alike, including the iconic cruise ships that form a distinctive part of the skyline. These impressive vessels can be seen from our outstanding venue, the Broward County Convention Center, which is surrounded by excellent hotels both adjacent to the centre and throughout the nearby area.
WAF 2026 will take place from the 18 - 20 November 2026.
Book now
WAF 2026: Premium Ticket
- Access to Main Stage sessions
- Access to Festival Hall Stage sessions
- Access to all live judging sessions
- Exhibition access
- Access to the welcome drinks reception
- Access to partner fringe events, including drinks and workshops
- Access to the WAF app for networking
- A seat at the Gala Dinner on Friday evening
- One WAF Tour, with selection available after 1 September
WAF 2026: Standard Ticket
- Access to Main Stage sessions
- Access to Festival Hall Stage sessions
- Access to all live judging sessions
- Exhibition access
- Access to the welcome drinks reception
- Access to partner fringe events, including drinks and workshops
- Access to the WAF app for networking
WAF 2026: Gala Dinner seat
Taking place on Friday 20 November 7pm at the Broward County Convention Center where the overall WAF 2026 winners are revealed!
This ticket will be for one individual seat at £450. The evening will include:
- Drinks reception
- Dinner
- Awards ceremony
- Networking opportunities with winners, judges and speakers
Limited availablity. The WAF Gala Dinner usually sells out and tickets are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Please note the Premium Festival ticket includes one seat at the Gala Dinner.
WAF 2026: Gala Dinner table of 10
Taking place on Friday 20 November 7pm at the Broward County Convention Center where the overall WAF 2026 winners are revealed!
This is for a table of 10. The evening will include:
- Drinks reception
- Dinner
- Awards ceremony
- Networking opportunities with winners, judges and speakers!
Limited availablity. The WAF Gala Dinner usually sells out and tickets are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Please note the Premium Festival ticket includes one seat at the Gala Dinner.
Venue and accommodation
Discounted accommodation
We have partnered with MICE Concierge to offer our delegates the best rates of hotels in Fort Lauderdale. Visit the dedicated accommodation service page.
Venue accessibility
The Broward County Convention Center sets a standard for accessibility, ensuring that meetings, trade shows, events, conferences, and conventions held at the venue are accommodating. Learn more.
Parking and directions
The Broward County Convention Center is conveniently located 2 miles from Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood Airport, 1.5 miles to Fort Lauderdale Beach, and 2.5 miles to Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Learn more.
Sustainability
Broward County Convention Center’s sustainability goal is to ensure a safe and healthy atmosphere for their valued guests. They have successfully implemented several green initiatives throughout our facility with ongoing efforts continuing. Learn more.
WAF 2025 film
Founder Partner
WAF x Della Townships
Strategic Future Cities Partner
