Nearly 1,000 special event professionals talked and rocked last night at the Welcome Party, the traditional kick-off of The Special Event. Sponsored by Special Events Magazine and CMI, both publications of Primedia Business Magazines & Media, The Special Event 2002 trade show and conference runs Jan. 9-12 in Phoenix.

Held at Patriot’s Park, the Welcome Party featured 19 food stations hosted by members of the National Association of Catering Executives. The highlight of the event was the performance of the World Classic Rockers, a band made up of original and former members of famed rock groups including the Eagles, Steppenwolf, Wings, Toto, Foreigner and The Moody Blues.

Special features of today’s program include the sold-out Leadership Lunch, where industry leaders will share their visions of the business outlook for the special event industry, and the Opening Night Party, an extravaganza taking place at the Arizona Science Center. The education program will feature 16 sessions including “Corporate Event Project Management,” “Everyday Rental Dilemmas” and “Events as Brand Marketing.” Attendees can also visit more than 400 booths presenting a wide array of products and services for event professionals.

For more information, visit www.thespecialeventshow.com or call 800/288-8606.