Events & EducationHighlights
Thursday Outings
Viva Fresh Open
Thursday, April 16th | 1:00pm (Tee Off) | TPC San Antonio
This year, the Viva Fresh Open Golf Tournament is heading to TPC San Antonio, elevating the experience at one of Texas’ premier golf destinations. Taking place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, players will have the exclusive opportunity to tee off on both championship courses at the same time, the renowned AT&T Canyons Course and AT&T Oaks Course.
Home to PGA TOUR events, TPC San Antonio delivers world-class playing conditions, breathtaking Hill Country views, and a championship-caliber challenge for golfers of all skill levels. With both courses in play simultaneously, we’re expanding capacity while creating an even more dynamic and memorable tournament atmosphere.
This exciting enhancement allows more participants to join the tradition while experiencing two exceptional layouts in one unforgettable day.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the elevated Viva Fresh Open at TPC San Antonio.
*Registrants for Golf must be registered to attend the Viva Fresh Expo.
Pickleball Tournament
Thursday, April 16th | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm |
We’re excited to bring back the Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or trying the sport for the first time, this high-energy event offers something for everyone. It’s a perfect blend of competitive play and industry networking, giving you a chance to connect with colleagues while enjoying one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.
More details about tournament registration, rules, and event scheduling will be announced soon. Get ready to serve up some fun, make lasting connections, and be part of the excitement at the first-ever Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament!
Glow Golf – 19th Hole Celebration
Thursday, April 16th | 7:00 pm- 9:00 pm | River Bend Pavilion (Near Pool Area)
Light up the night at our Glow Golf Evening, where championship fairways transform into a vibrant, neon playground. Enjoy illuminated tee boxes, glowing golf balls, music, and a high-energy atmosphere set against the stunning backdrop of the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort in San Antonio. Whether you’re playing or just soaking in the scene, this after-dark experience blends friendly competition with unforgettable networking under the Texas stars.
Friday Education, Keynote & Kickoff
Power in Partnership:
How TIPA Drives Policy, Trade & Profitability for Produce Professionals
Friday, April 17th | 8:45 am – 9:25am
Speaker: Dante Galeazzi; President TIPA
Behind every load of fresh produce crossing a border in the Tex-Mex corridor and hitting the shelves, is a network of advocacy, strategy, and industry support.
In this session, discover how the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA)is shaping the future of fresh—from water, to trade and tariffs, labor and Immigration. Here about millions in disaster relief and trade wins to pioneering water advocacy and championing commodity-specific initiatives that impact your bottom line. Whether you’re a grower, importer, or distributor operating in the Tex-Mex corridor, learn how TIPA’s work is directly influencing market access, cost-savings, and long-term sustainability for B2B leaders like you.
TIPA Women in Produce Reception
Friday, April 17th | 9:30 am – 11:30am
In Bloom is a dynamic organization within TIPA dedicated to empowering and advancing women in the produce industry through networking, mentorship, advocacy, and professional development. With a focus on fostering a supportive community, In Bloom creates opportunities for growth throughout the year, culminating in an exciting women-focused event at Viva Fresh. United by the belief that “When one woman wins, we all win,” In Bloom is cultivating female leaders ready to drive the industry forward while championing fresh produce and mutual success.
2026 Keynote Speaker: Hunter Pinke
Friday, April 17th | 12.00 pm – 2:00pm
Hunter Pinke’s journey is a testament to resilience. After suffering a life-altering spinal cord injury at the young age of 22, he was forced to reevaluate his understanding of success and leadership. As a former Division I football captain and collegiate wheelchair basketball team leader, he learned how to adapt and lead in adversity.
Today, Pinke applies these lessons to his work in construction and family farming, sharing insights on resilience and perspective across North America. His experiences translate powerfully to the produce industry, where the stakes are high, and decisions carry real consequences.
Finding Your Why:
The Clean Eating Challenge & the Power of Produce
Friday, April 11th | 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm
Speakers: Panel of Participants
Six years. Nearly 100 participants. One powerful movement. The Clean Eating Challenge has inspired produce professionals from across the industry to transform their health by embracing more whole foods—especially fruits and vegetables—moving more, and committing to better overall wellness.
In this uplifting session, hear firsthand stories from challenge takers as they share the real-life ups and downs of reshaping habits, finding motivation, and staying consistent. From weight loss to renewed energy, mental clarity to physical strength, these journeys are proof that positive change starts with a simple why.
Whether you’re looking to reset, recharge, or just reconnect with your health goals, this session offers the inspiration and practical takeaways to spark your own transformation.
Tariffs & Turbulence:
Navigating the Political and Practical Realities
Friday, April 17th | 3:30 pm – 5:00pm
Speakers: Dante Galeazzi; President, TIPA & Anne MacMillan; Partner, Invariant Government Relations
Tariffs remain one of the most unpredictable and impactful forces shaping the fresh produce industry—and the months ahead could bring even more disruption.
In this timely and candid session, Dante Galeazzi of TIPA and Anne MacMillan of Invariant Government Relations break down what B2B leaders need to know now. From behind-the-scenes political wrangling to emerging trade dynamics, get a front-row seat to the conversations happening in D.C. that could directly affect your cost of goods, sourcing strategies, and market access.
This session will explore what’s at stake, what’s likely, and most importantly—how to prepare. Bring your questions for an open Q&A on everything from tariff structures to advocacy strategies, and leave with actionable insights to help you navigate what’s next.
Y-TIPA: Networking Event for ages 35 and under
Friday, April 17th | 5:30 pm – 6:30pm
The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) offers Y-TIPA, a dedicated networking group for industry members under the age of 35. Y-TIPA focuses on fostering connections, networking, and providing educational opportunities tailored to the next generation of fresh produce professionals.
As part of the upcoming Viva Fresh Expo, Y-TIPA will host a special networking event on Friday, April 11th, at 5:30 PM. This is a great opportunity for young professionals to connect, share ideas, and build relationships within the industry. Don’t miss it!
Welcome Reception
Friday, April 17th | 7:30 pm – 9:30pm
After a full day of insightful educational sessions, it’s time to relax and have some fun at the Viva Fresh Welcome Reception! Join us on Friday, April 17th, at 7:30 PM at the JW Hill Country Resort – Event Lawn 1. Enjoy a refreshing spring evening with great company and and plenty of energy to set the tone for the rest of the event.
Saturday Expo
Expo Hall Opens
Saturday, April 18th | 10:30 am – 4:00pm
Get ready to explore the heart of the Viva Fresh Expo at the Expo Hall Opening! Join us on Saturday to connect with exhibitors showcasing the best and freshest in the industry. From innovative products to key insights, this is your chance to engage with industry leaders, discover new opportunities, and take your business to the next level.
EDGE: Encouraging Discovery and Growth in Education
The Viva Fresh Expo is proud to support EDGE: Encouraging Discovery and Growth in Education, a networking opportunity that introduce students from colleges and universities across Texas to internships and immediate job openings in the region’s fresh produce industry. EDGE will once again be bringing students to Viva Fresh in hopes of replicating the same success. You’ll have an opportunity to meet these talented students at the EDGE Reception on Saturday, April 13.
This program is available to all Texas colleges and universities.
If your company is looking for hard-working and intelligent students to fill available positions EDGE is here to help! If you have internship or job openings or are interested in volunteering as a mentor in EDGE please contact us.
Our 2026 Sponsors
