Friendly Unofficial Networking (F.U.N.) is back in Las Vegas next week, bringing its off-the-floor energy to Licensing Expo. This year, F.U.N. has two events built for dealmakers who know the best conversations don’t always happen on a trade show floor.
Founded by Marc Mostman, F.U.N. has become a Licensing Expo-adjacent tradition over the past decade.
This year, F.U.N. kicks things off with a Beach Cabana Pool Take Over Monday, May 18, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Mandalay Bay pool. The group has secured all seven Beach Bungalows, with licensing agencies hosting each cabana, including Striker Entertainment, Reemsborko, Brandgenuity, Licensing Street, Joester Loria Group, and Brand Central. The event features food, drinks, and casual poolside networking — a welcome break from indoor meetings.
F.U.N. also brings back the “Official Unofficial After Party” on Tuesday, May 19, beginning at 9:30 p.m. at Skyfall Rooftop Lounge at the W Hotel. The invite-only event is presented by Bioworld Merchandising and Striker Entertainment in partnership with Manhead, VIZ Media, and Horror, Inc.
Sometimes called “The After Prom,” the party keeps the night rolling after the official Expo party winds down, team dinners wrap, and the licensing crowd heads for the roof.
Of course, our team from Adventure Media & Events will be on the ground in Las Vegas. Visit us at Booth No. F106 to grab The Toy Book‘s 2026 Licensing & Entertainment Issue (featuring The Licensing Book supplement), and the spring edition of The Pop Insider.
