Just a month from now, on April 13-16, the National Association of Broadcasters will return to Las Vegas to host the NAB Show. The strongest concentration of TV and video enthusiasts under one roof will flock to the Las Vegas Convention Center for a lot of networking, idea sharing, and general good times. Best of all, dear reader, you can join in the fun for free if you use my special guest pass code GA02 when you register for an exhibits-only pass.

This January at the International CES, I was chatting with a public relations rep who volunteered that her most enjoyable trade show of the year is the NAB Show; I had to agree. There’s an underlying current of camaraderie and creativity at the NAB Show, that every newsroom editor is one step away from directing a feature film, and that every TV news director is just one cool on-screen gadget from having the highest ratings in his market.

On the other hand, you don’t need to work in the broadcast industry to attend, and there’s plenty for us TV/video enthusiasts to enjoy. In addition to the entertaining opening keynote address and a later address by FCC chairman (and surprising Net Neutrality champion) Tom Wheeler, all attendees will be able to see a special session on “The World of The Walking Dead” featuring Steven Yeun and executive producer Robert Kirkman.

Of course, the primary benefit of an exhibits-only pass is the exhibit area, spread out over every hall of the LVCC. All of the exhibitors are pitching to broadcasters, but we enthusiasts can see possible new technologies and delivery methods, such as last year’s Tablet TV. (I’ll tell you more about that in my next post.) There are always surprises and plenty of personal networking opportunities, especially at the ubiquitous happy hours every afternoon. So come spend a day or three with at the NAB Show, where I’m sure you’ll have a good time.