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Affiliate events at SOF Week are independently organized gatherings that complement the main program, offering additional opportunities for networking and collaboration. These events are hosted by industry partners and other organizations to enhance the overall SOF Week experience. An item listed as an affiliate event does not automatically grant it Widely Attended Gathering (WAG) status. Be sure to check out the Official SOF Week Networking Events:
Please see the list of events below, submitted in conjunction with SOF Week.
Sunday, 17 May
Veterans, Guns & Cigars Tampa
WAG Approval: Approved
WHEN: Sunday, 17 May, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Pinellas Outdoor Shooting Range
3700 126th Ave N, Clearwater, FL 33762
Monday, 18 May
The Honor Foundation Transition Seminar
Join The Honor Foundation for an interactive half-day career transition workshop. Guided by THF faculty and military transition experts, this session provides transitioning veterans with the foundational tools needed to establish a framework for a successful move into the private sector.
The workshop will address how to overcome the greatest challenges veterans face as they leave military service, deciding what they want to do, and conveying their unique value and experience to civilian organizations to find the best fit.
WHEN: Monday, 18 May, 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Holland & Knight LLP, Downtown Tampa
100 North Tampa St., Suite 4100, Tampa, FL 33602
ClearanceJobs Career Event
Ready to take your cleared career to the next level? Join ClearanceJobs at SOF Week for an exclusive career fair connecting you with top defense, intelligence, and government contracting employers actively hiring now. Meet face-to-face with recruiters, explore mission-driven opportunities, and make meaningful connections that can move your career forward. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—secure your spot today!
WHEN: Monday, 18 May, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
WHERE: Hilton Tampa Downtown
211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602
OneArc Innovation Social
WAG Approval: Approved
As SOF Week 2026 kicks off, join NDIA, BAE Systems OneArc, and a curated group of strategic partners for an evening that transcends the traditional exhibit hall experience.
- Expert Panel: “Operationalizing Simulation: Bridging Training and Real-World Operations” — Join government and industry leaders for a fast-paced discussion on pressing readiness challenges.
- Integrated Tech Demo: Explore a live ecosystem of cutting-edge capabilities from OneArc and strategic partners.
- Elite Networking & Catering: Connect with peers from SOCOM, NATO SOF, and industry in a premier social setting. This event features an open bar, and complimentary food will be provided.
WHEN: Monday, 18 MAY, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Oak & Ola, Downtown Tampa
1910 N Ola Ave Tampa, FL 33602
Registration is required for entry.
SOF Week Welcome Reception
The SOF Week Welcome Reception is the kick-off event that launches SOF Week. It provides a relaxed setting for attendees to network and engage with the global special operations community.
WHEN: Monday, 18 May, 6:00 PM
WHERE: Sparkman Wharf, Downtown Tampa
615 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Tuesday, 19 May
Blue Cross Blue Shield SOF Week Breakfast
WAG Approval: Approved
Join Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) during SOF week for an exclusive breakfast that brings together members of the Special Operations community. This intimate gathering will feature distinguished BCBSA board members who have served in Special Operations Forces in different capacities:
- Ramon ‘CZ’ Colon-Lopez, 4th SEAC
- Robert Abernethy, Senior Enlisted Leader, CSM of U.S. European Command (Retired)
- Scott H Stalker, MGySgt, Command Senior Enlisted Leader, U.S. Space Command (Retired)
This breakfast is designed to foster relationships and create space for candid dialogue in a relaxed, collegial setting
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
WHERE: Harpoon Harry’s
225 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
The SOF Social and Online Auction
Reception and online auction benefitting all of SOF through the Task Force Dagger Special Operations Foundation. Join us in support of the mission alongside our Special Operations members and industry leaders.
Live bidding opens on 11 May at 8:00 AM and closes on 19 May at 8:00 PM ET.
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY
WHERE: Embassy Suites
Skyway Ballroom | Level 2
SOF Select
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Hilton Downtown Tampa
211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602
GRVTY’s Harbour Hour
Join GRVTY on the Tampa Bay for an evening of craft cocktails, exceptional bites, and a live cigar rolling experience. Sip, savor, and mingle as the waterfront sets the stage for new connections and memorable conversations. Don’t miss it
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
WHERE: Jackson’s Bistro
601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Ste 100
Bourbon, Brotherhood & Promise
A Sterling Promise Foundation SOF Week Fundraiser
Join us and our annual partners, during SOF Week for an unforgettable evening of community, camaraderie, and purpose as we gather to support the mission of Sterling Promise Foundation. Built on the values of service, sacrifice, and brotherhood, this special event honors the life and legacy of Staff Sergeant Scott Sterling and his commitment to supporting fellow service members long after his military career.
Scott served with honor and distinction in the U.S. Army Special Operations community, including the 75th Ranger Regimental Reconnaissance Detachment and 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta. After a courageous battle with colorectal cancer, Scott turned his fight into a mission to raise awareness for early detection, veteran wellness, and proactive healthcare advocacy. His strength and resilience continue to inspire the work of SPF today.
During SOF Week, SPF, in partnership with Guardant Health, will once again offer private on-site blood draws for cancer screenings for active duty military members and veterans, along with opportunities to sign up for advanced body scans on-site.
The evening will feature OY6 bourbon, live music, and both silent and live auctions featuring exclusive experiences, gear, memorabilia, travel opportunities, and partner-donated items. Every donation, sponsorship secured, and auction bid placed directly supports life-saving screenings, wellness initiatives, and healthcare advocacy for our military and veteran community.
Special thanks to our annual partners On Your 6 Bourbon, S&S Precision, Forgeline, Gentex Corp and Guardant, along with our many generous sponsors and supporters who help make this mission possible.
Together, we raise a glass not only in remembrance and honor — but in continued promise to those who serve.
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
WHERE: Westin Tampa Waterside – Channelside Room
Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Celebrating 25 Years of Partnership
WAG Approval: Approved
The program includes a 25-minute preview from the documentary NOORI followed by a panel with the cast and filmmakers. We’ll conclude with an hour-long, celebratory networking reception.
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 May
5:00 PM to 5:30 PM: Arrival
5:30 PM to 5:35 PM: Welcome Remarks
5:35 PM to 6:00 PM: Film Preview
6:00 PM to 6:30 PM: Q&A Panel
6:30 PM to 7:30 PM: Reception
WHERE: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Tampa Bay Ballroom | Level 4
Mantech SOF Week Social
WAG Approval: Approved
ManTech and our partners are proud to host the SOF Hawaiian-themed Social honoring the noble work of Grey Bull Rescue and JSOA. Put on your best Hawaiian attire and join us for an evening of Hawaiian-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, and great company. Aloha!
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Onboard Yacht Starship 1
Docked at the Tampa Convention Center Marina, 333 S. Franklin St. Tampa FL 33602
BAE Systems Reception
WAG Approval: Approved
BAE Systems cordially invites you to a cocktail reception at the 2026 SOF Week trade show. We hope you will join us for an evening of light refreshments as we celebrate National Military Appreciation Month.
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
WHERE: American Social
601 S. Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, FL
Combat, Cancer, & Cocktails Screening Event
Join the HunterSeven Foundation during SOF Week for an exclusive, limited-capacity cancer screening event designed for at-risk veterans, service members, and members of the Special Operations community. Attendees will have access to free advanced blood-based screening for 25+ cancers, along with non-invasive skin cancer detection through DermaSensor.
This private event will also feature complimentary food, unlimited top-shelf spirits, live music, and mission-aligned organizations and companies, including Special Forces Foundation, ALLTRU, 5by5 Performance Therapy, Black Rifle Coffee Company, Decisive Point, Comrod, and Avon Protection. Admission and screening spots are limited and available by reserved ticket only – please reserve your spot below.
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Jackson’s Bistro & Bar
601 S. Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, FL
Warriors Ethos American Victory Boat Fundraiser
WAG Approval: Approved
Join us for an evening of fun and camaraderie while supporting transitioning service members. Your ticket provides unlimited cocktails, food by Mission BBQ, live music by the Black Honkey band, cigars, and more!
WHEN: Tuesday, 19 MAY, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
WHERE: American Victory Ship
705 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Wednesday, 20 May
SOF WEEK Exhibition Athletic Training (SWEAT)
WAG Approval: Approved
SWEAT is an interactive fitness and readiness challenge at SOF Week that engages military, industry, and partners in a high-energy test of endurance, teamwork, and problem-solving—highlighting the resilience of the Special Operations community.
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 May, 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
WHERE: Cotanchobee Park
601 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602
SOF Select
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 MAY, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Hilton Downtown Tampa
211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602
Ridgeline’s SOF Week Midday Mixer & Demo Viewing
WAG Approval: Approved
Join Veilant (formerly Ridgeline International) for drinks, appetizers, and prime viewing of the Live Demo from the sixth-floor balcony of the JW Marriott.
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 MAY from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
SiX Tampa | Level 6
MIC Unplugged: SOF Week Happy Hour
Join us on Wednesday, May 20, for a special MIC Unplugged, in conjunction with SOF Week. This gathering is an opportunity to connect with the Recurrent Military & Defense team, learn more about the upcoming Military Influencer Conference (MIC) coming to Tampa in September, and explore ways we can work together to better serve service members, veterans, and their families.
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 MAY 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
WHERE: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
H.B. Plant Ballroom Foyer | Level 2
Liberty Alliance SOF-TECH EXPO
WAG Approval: Approved
Join Liberty Alliance and industry leaders for an evening of technology showcases, networking, and discussions on the future of defense innovation.
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 May, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
WHERE: The Florida Aquarium | Coral Reef Galleries
701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
The Harbour Island Small Business Social
WAG Approval: Approved
Agile Lion, a partnership between Agile Defense and Neaman Solutions, is hosting The Harbour Island Social at American Social Tampa — a waterfront venue on Harbour Island with skyline views, premium food and drink, and the kind of high-energy atmosphere that turns introductions into relationships.
This is not a typical reception, it is where meaningful conversations happen once the badges come off.
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 MAY from 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
WHERE: American Social
601 S Harbour Island Blvd #107, Tampa, FL 33602
Registration is required for entry.
Please direct any registration, sponsorship, or general event questions to SOFWeek@agiledefense.com
Rally Point Tactical/ Fibrotex Networking Event
WAG Approval: Approved
WHEN: Wednesday, 20 May, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
WHERE: Grand Cathedral Cigar
2201 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Thursday, 21 May
SOF Select
Connect with top brands in a laid-back, social setting – grab a drink, some food, start a conversation, and stay a while.
WHEN: Thursday, 21 MAY, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Hilton Downtown Tampa
211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602
Leader Perspectives from the Information Fight
Chatham House rules — no media or recording. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served during the session, followed by a relaxed social hour in the same venue. There is no cost to attend. This event is proudly sponsored by the Information Professional Association.
Featured Speakers:
- COL Chris Wilson — USSOCOM J39
- COL Steven Santa Maria — USCENTCOM J39
Moderator:
- Dave Pitts — Former IC Senior Executive and IPA Board Member
Discussion Focus:
- Leadership insights from the information fight, Warfighting challenges in contested information environments, Capability needs for the fight, USSOCOM’s and CENTCOM’s role(s) in shaping and leading the information mission, What “winning” might look like in the information domain, and Where industry can be more helpful and better aligned
WHEN: Thursday, 21 MAY from 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
WHERE: Marriott Tampa Water Street
Terrace Room | Level 1
USSOCOM Awards Ceremony & Dinner
The closing USSOCOM Awards Ceremony and Dinner takes place on Thursday, 21 MAY.
WHEN: Thursday, 21 MAY from 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
WHERE: Marriott Tampa Water Street
Grand Ballroom | Level 2
HALO Happy Hour
Join the Green Beret Foundation to close out SOF Week with a lively happy hour! Connect with Green Berets, Special Operations members, and defense industry professionals while enjoying an evening of community, music, and mission.
WHEN: Thursday, 21 MAY from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: American Social
601 S. Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, FL
Widely Attended Gatherings (WAG)
Widely Attending Gatherings (WAG):
Please be advised that the Department of Defense (DoD) no longer provides “blanket” Widely Attended Gathering (WAG) determinations for external events taking place around SOF Week. Events on this page may qualify as a WAG pursuant to 5 C.F.R. § 2635.204(g). All personnel are strongly encouraged to consult with their supervisor or ethics advisor prior to attending any event.
WAG Applications are now closed.
An event does NOT require a WAG Approval to occur; however, an event without a WAG Approval may have restrictions on military/government employee attendance in a formal capacity.
We can still post Affiliate Events on the SOF Week website without a WAG Approval. If you would still like your Affiliate Event posted on our website, please reach out to the email listed below.
Please reach out to Triana Militello, TMilitello@gsof.org, with any additional questions!
Looking to host a dinner or event during SOF Week? Click the button below to see a list of potential locations to host your event at!