Events & EducationHighlights
Thursday Outings
Viva Fresh Open
Thursday, April 10th | 7:30am (Tee Off) & 1:30 pm (Tee Off) | Golf Club of Houston
Thursday, April 10th | 9:30am (Tee Off) | Tour 18 Golf Club
This year, the Viva Fresh Open Golf Tournament is expanding to include a second course, the Tour 18 Golf Club, alongside its established location at the Golf Club of Houston. Taking place on Thursday, April 10th, this exciting addition offers players a unique opportunity to experience two incredible courses in one unforgettable day.
The Golf Club of Houston remains a favorite, offering its championship-caliber layout and premium facilities. Now, with the inclusion of Tour 18 Golf Club, players can also enjoy the thrill of teeing off on replicas of some of the most famous golf holes from around the world.
This expansion ensures more players can join the fun while enhancing the tournament experience with greater variety and memorable challenges. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enhanced Viva Fresh tradition
*Registrants for Golf must be registered to attend the Viva Fresh Expo.
Pickleball Tournament
Thursday, April 10th | 9:00 am – 3:00 pm | Drop Shots – Houston Farmer’s Market
We’re excited to introduce the inaugural Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament, hosted at Drop Shots HTX, located in the historic Houston Farmers Market in the Greater Heights Houston area. With six indoor courts and a lively atmosphere, this unique venue sets the stage for an unforgettable experience where fun meets friendly competition.
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!
Astros Reception
Thursday, April 10th | 7:00 pm- 9:00 pm | Astros Stadium
Step up to the plate for an unforgettable evening at Astros Stadium! The Astros Reception invites Viva Fresh attendees to experience the home of the Houston Astros in a truly unique setting. Whether you’re exploring the stadium’s iconic features, connecting with fellow industry professionals, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, this event promises to be a home run.
Friday Education, Keynote & Kickoff
Power in Partnership:
How TIPA Drives Policy, Trade & Profitability for Produce Professionals
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 11th | 9:30 am
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.
2025 Keynote Speaker: José M. Hernandez
Friday, April 11th | 12.00 pm
Jose M. Hernandez is a former NASA astronaut, engineer, and entrepreneur. He flew aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-128 and now leads Tierra Luna Engineering, an aerospace consulting firm.
His journey from migrant farmworker to astronaut was chronicled in the 2023 biographical film A Million Miles Away. He has shared his story on major platforms, inspiring audiences with his message of perseverance and determination.
Hernandez has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, and NPR and has spoken at Fortune 500 companies, universities, and global conferences. We are excited to welcome him to Viva Fresh’s 10th anniversary for an inspiring keynote that will motivate and energize attendees.
Finding Your Why:
The Clean Eating Challenge & the Power of Produce
Friday, April 11th | 2:15 pm – 3:00 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.
2025 Educational Session 2
Friday, April 11th | 4:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Stay Tuned! We haven’t announced this year’s educational session yet—but here’s a look back at one of last year’s impactful discussions.
2024 Educational Session:
Feeding the World:
Understanding America’s Ag Strategy for National Security
Last year’s session featured Colonel (Ret.) Mark Purdy, Chief Operations Officer and former military leader with over 30 years of experience in operations, logistics, and national security strategy. Mark shared how his leadership background—spanning combat command, managing multi-billion-dollar security portfolios, and directing strategic war games—informs his approach to guiding organizations toward operational success.
Raised on his family’s farm in Ohio, Mark connected his agricultural roots with his national security expertise, offering a unique perspective on how America’s ag strategy impacts global stability. His insights shed light on the critical role the produce industry plays in supporting both economic growth and national defense.
Tariffs & Turbulence:
Navigating the Political and Practical Realities
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 11th | 5:30 pm
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 11th | 7:30 pm
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 11th, at 7:30 PM at the Houston Marriott Marquis – Altitude Pool Deck. 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 12th | 10:30 am
Get ready to explore the heart of the Viva Fresh Expo at the Expo Hall Opening! Join us on Saturday, April 12th, at 10:30 AM 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 2025 Sponsors
