CLEVELAND — The 59th Biennial Convention of the International Association of Fire Fighters will be in Cleveland in 2028 after the city secured the bid last month.
According to a release from the association, which has more than 350,000 members, Cleveland was chosen as the host city by around 4,000 fire fighters from the U.S. and Canada.
“Our city has a rich tradition of honoring and supporting fire fighters, and we are proud to be selected as the host for this distinguished event,” Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb said in the release. “This achievement is a testament to the commitment, hard work and dedication of our local fire fighters, represented by Local 93 President Jake Konys, and the collaboration with IAFF General President Edward Kelly and Destination Cleveland. We look forward to welcoming fire fighters from across the country and highlighting the important work they do to keep our communities safe. We are excited to showcase everything our city has to offer.”
Bibb presented the bid alongside Konys and with support from Destination Cleveland. Konys said it’s an honor to be chosen as the host city and they’re looking forward to welcoming the association’s members to the city in four years.
“Our city is rising, and we have much to showcase,” he said in the release. “Cleveland is home to a strong labor force, and we will continue collaborating with our City’s Leadership to build a better tomorrow. I look forward to working with Mayor Bibb, and City Hall, and the incredible talent we have at Destination Cleveland to make this convention an economic driver for the region.”
David Gilbert, the president and CEO of Destination Cleveland, said the city wins when they bring events and conventions here.
“The IAFF’s selection of Cleveland reflects the commitment of many organizations and individuals to advancing our city’s reputation as both an event host as well as an overall destination city,” Gilbert said in the release. “With an estimated economic impact of nearly $1.8 million and the likelihood of delivering 10,500 room nights, this event is another significant opportunity to show visitors what makes our city so special.”