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Wahl Global Stage brings 50% off tickets and Vapor CE debut to Chicago

Two-day international event brings top barbers from 14 countries together for education, competition and first access to Wahl® Professional's newest tool.

2 min read

STERLING, Ill. – The world's top barbers are headed to Chicago this weekend, and  is offering 50% off tickets to its  event with code FAMILYANDFRIENDS50, available through the show.

Taking place May 3–4, 2026 at the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture, Wahl® Global Stage will unite top barbers from 14 countries for a two-day experience blending world-class education, cultural exchange and a high-energy international competition.

This year's event will also serve as the debut of Wahl® Professional's newest innovation, the Vapor CE (Championship Edition), a limited-edition professional clipper inspired by the energy of global competition and designed for precision, control and performance when it matters most.

Attendees will have the rare opportunity to purchase the Vapor® CE on-site in limited quantities, making Global Stage one of the first places in the world to experience and own the tool.

"Global Stage is about bringing the barbering community together to learn, compete and be inspired," said Stephanie Polansky, Global Director of Education at Wahl. "This year, we're taking it even further by introducing a tool that reflects that same energy and excellence, giving attendees a first look at what's next in the industry."

Part education summit, part international championship, Wahl® Global Stage offers something for every level of barber, from students to seasoned professionals. The weekend includes:

  • Education Summit (May 3, 12–6 p.m.)
    Live demonstrations, trend insights and business strategies from leading global educators
  • Global Barber Battle (May 4, 6–9:30 p.m.)
    A red-carpet-style competition where national champions compete for the title of Wahl® Global Barber of the Year
  • VIP Experience + After Party
    Networking, celebration and direct access to top talent in the industry

Throughout the weekend, attendees can explore emerging haircut trends, learn how barbers are leveraging social media and AI to grow their businesses, and connect with some of the most influential voices shaping the future of grooming.

To learn more about Wahl Global Stage and purchase 50% off tickets, visit . For more information about Wahl® Professional, visit  and follow @WahlPro on , ,  and .

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