NATIONAL: The Events News Industry Council has announced its incoming officers and 2021 board of directors. Mark Cooper, CEO of IACC, will serve as chair of the board, while Cathy Breden, COO of IAEE and CEO of CEIR, is chair-elect. Other 2021 directors include PCMA president Sherrif Karamat, SISO director David Audrain and Destinations International CEO Don Welsh.

SXSW has announced the initial wave of programming for its upcoming virtual conference, taking place March 16-20. Musician Willie Nelson will deliver the keynote, and additional speakers include Samantha Bee, Sir Richard Branson, Taraji P. Henson and more. Over 230 conference sessions will take place during the four-day event.

AUSTIN: Colton House Hotel opened its doors Jan. 6. The property on South Congress Avenue offers 80 expansive custom suites, with room styles that include apartments and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, all fully fitted with a kitchenette or full kitchen and living room. There's also a 5,000-square-foot outdoor event space, plus a 1,200-square-foot Penthouse.

SEATTLE: Eventcore has announced that Chris Emerson is the Seattle-based company's new vice president of sales and marketing. Emerson brings over 16 years of event industry sales and leadership experience to the new role.

WELLINGTON, FLA: The village of Wellington, Fla., will host its 22nd annual South Florida Garlic Festival March 6-7 as a socially distant event. The two-day festival will occur at Wellington Green Park and feature full bars, live entertainment, children's rides and over 180 exhibitors selling art, products and homemade goods.

What's happening on the event scene in your city? Email us and share the news!