PDAC 2026 Toronto | Preparation Guide

The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Convention is the world’s premier event for the mineral exploration and mining industry. Held annually in downtown Toronto, Canada, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), this global gathering attracts over 25,000 attendees from over 130+ countries. The event typically takes place in early March and serves as the top platform for networking, deal-making, education, and showcasing the latest innovations in mining and exploration.

PDAC brings together a diverse mix of attendees, including mining executives, government officials, investors, geologists, and equipment and service providers. Whether you’re an exploration company looking to raise capital or a supplier offering new solutions to the industry, PDAC is where global connections are forged.

In 2026, PDAC will return to Toronto from March 1–4, filling both the North and South buildings of the MTCC with exhibits, presentations, and networking events. For many, it’s the most important event on their calendar—an opportunity to strengthen relationships, launch new projects, and stay on the cutting edge of mining and exploration developments. If you’re part of the industry, attending PDAC isn’t just valuable—it’s essential.

Müller Expo developed this exhibitor guide to help exhibitors prepare for the show and ensure a smooth, successful exhibit experience. It will walk you through every key step of the process.

1. Secure Your Booth Provider Early

PDAC 2026 is expanding (including in Trade Show North, Halls A‑C and Halls D‑E), accommodating over 1,100 exhibitors and attracting more than 27,000 attendees from 135‑plus countries (Metro Toronto Convention Centre, PDAC). Booth space is allocated by priority renewal: existing 2025 exhibitors receive first-round access until August 14, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET; after that, space opens to new applicants starting September 16, 2025 at 10 a.m. ET (PDAC).

Top tips:

• If you’re renewing a booth, apply early in that priority window—early August is essential. 
• If you’re applying as a new exhibitor, mark your calendar for September 16 to apply immediately, when applications open. 
• Many companies use rental providers like GES or regional pavilion organizers (e.g. MineAfrica) for turnkey booths; contact them well in advance to secure graphics production and booth setup logistics (PDAC, ordering.ges.com). 
• Don’t forget to confirm Müller Expo will be at the show building representing multiple suppliers there—this can be great for connecting or using their services onsite. 

2. Book Your Hotel When You Book Your Booth

PDAC reserves blocks at downtown Toronto hotels, often with promotional rates. Hotel details and rates for 2026 will be posted on August 6, 2025 at 2 p.m. ET, and bookings open immediately then.

Why that matters:

• Downtown hotels near the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) sell out fast during PDAC. Waiting increases cost and commute time (Downtown Toronto Hotels). 
• Priority exhibits and early booth selection often come with an opportunity to reserve hotel rooms through official PDAC links—grab those. 
• Choose hotels within walking distance or easy transit access (e.g. Union Station, streetcar routes) to maximize convenience. 

3. Getting To and From the Event

PDAC is held at the MTCC across both the North and South buildings at 222 Bremner Blvd (South) and 255 Front St. W (North).

Transportation options:

• Air travel: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is approx. a 30–40 min taxi or UP Express train ride to Union Station downtown. 
• Train: VIA Rail and GO Transit connect into Union Station, just minutes from the venue. 
• Hotel shuttle or taxi/Uber: Downtown hotels often offer shuttle service or are cheap rides away. 
• On-site parking: MTCC offers paid parking; rates and options available via their “Getting Here” pages. 
• Local transit: Toronto’s streetcar and subways (TTC) are reliable—many hotels require only a short walk plus a ride or two to MTCC. 

Plan transportation routes ahead—especially for booth move‑in/out days. Coordinate with your booth provider (e.g. GES,Expo Group, Müller Expo) about loading docks and service hours.

4. Eat Like a Local: Best Restaurants & Reservations

Toronto’s downtown core offers ample dining options close to the MTCC. Book ahead for dinner plans, especially March evenings.

Top picks near MTCC:

• Harbourfront / Queen’s Quay grill: Great for waterfront lunch or cocktails with views. 
• ByWard Market cafés: For casual meals and brunch. 
• King West district: Trendy restaurants like Café Nicole at Novotel (known PDAC happy hour spot), Constantine at Anndore House, or Stages at Pantages for piano‑lounge vibes. 

Popular reservation zones:

1. Downtown Financial District: business‑friendly with fine dining and power lunches. 
2. Entertainment District / King West: upscale and stylish. 
3. Union Station area: fast casual but convenient. 

Reservation advice:

• Many places fill early during conventions—book 2–3 weeks in advance. 
• Ask your hotel concierge or use OpenTable/reservation apps. 
• Happy hours in places like Constantine (4–6 p.m.) or Café Nicole (4–8 p.m.) are popular for industry mixers post‑booth hours. 

5. Use Local Vetter / Supplier Services to Comply with Union and Show Regulations

MTCC follows strict union, show-regulation, and exhibitor-service rules. To ensure everything runs smoothly, work with local vetted suppliers who know the venue—and PDAC—inside out.

Why this matters:

• Union labour rules govern booth assembly, rigging, electrical, carpentry, cleaning, and material handling. 
• Vendors unfamiliar with MTCC procedures may cause delays or additional costs. 
• The Convention Centre lists Suppliers & Partners that are pre‑approved for services like catering, rigging, cleaning, AV, etc. 

Steps to take:

• Ask your vetted supplier (local company) to provide booth labor using union rates and follow show regulations. 
• Confirm electrical, AV, and cleaning services are ordered from authorized providers to avoid service disruptions. 
• Many rental booth companies (e.g. GES, Müller Expo,) include compliance with union rules—inquire during planning. 
• If you’re shipping materials in, ensure the supplier can handle customs, storage, and material handling across MTCC docks. 

6. Müller Expo’s Presence & Why It Matters

You mentioned Müller Expo will be at the show building representing multiple suppliers—that’s key for exhibitors, because:

• Müller Expo specializes in delivering customized booth solutions for multiple clients. 
• Being onsite, they can support installation, graphics, logistics, or modular booths. 
• Network with them pre‑event to see if they offer services you can leverage or partner with. 

Sample Timeline & Action Plan

Why Early Planning Pays Off

• Best booth locations on the floor fill fast—early priority ensures visibility amid 1,100+ exhibitors.
• Hotel rooms in the desirable downtown core are limited; PDAC rates disappear quickly. 
• Local suppliers are in high demand—book your labor, AV, and rigging early. 
• You avoid unauthorized intermediaries or scams; PDAC explicitly warns attendees to book only through official channels. 

Travel Tips & On-Site Etiquette

• Pack smart: Montreal winters linger into early March—bring layers, waterproof shoes. 
• Move‑in/out days: usually before and during March 1 and after March 4—confirm timings from PDAC exhibitor guide. 
• Badge access: Booth staff passes allow hall entry; shared All‑Access passes allow program attendance. 
• Networking events: schedule time for PDAC-hosted events like Canada Night Finale, Investors Exchange sessions, breakfasts and mixers. 

Final Checklist

• Submit booth application (renew or new) during priority window. 
• Book a downtown hotel through official PDAC link starting Aug 6, 2025. 
• Choose a trusted booth provider and confirm Müller Expo services if relevant. 
• Plan transportation: flying, trains, local transit, and MTCC logistics. 
• Reserve dinner spots, especially King West restaurants and happy‑hour venues. 
• Use local vetted suppliers for booth labor, compliance, AV, and move in/out. 
• Prepare your team: badges, schedule, booth materials, collateral. 

Summary

Preparing for PDAC 2026 in Toronto requires strategic planning to ensure your company stands out among thousands of global attendees. Whether you’re showcasing with PDAC trade show exhibits, Toronto trade show booths, or using custom booths for PDAC, early preparation is key. Secure your booth rental in Toronto well in advance, reserve your hotel when space opens in August, and streamline travel logistics to and from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

For a seamless setup, it’s essential to work with local experts who understand union regulations and venue requirements—especially if you’re using exhibit rentals in Toronto. Trusted providers like Müller Expo, who will be onsite supporting multiple exhibitors, can help you navigate the process and deliver a polished, compliant exhibit.

From bold PDAC trade show booths to full-service support, leveraging local knowledge ensures a smoother experience. And while you’re in the city, take advantage of Toronto’s vibrant dining scene—reservations fill quickly during PDAC week. By planning ahead and working with experienced local partners, you’ll set your brand up for a high-impact, stress-free showing at one of the industry’s most influential events.