World Massage Festival
About World Massage Festival
Elevating the industry and its professionals through global unity, education, and fun.
Our purpose
Education, resources, connection, and room to grow
World Massage Festival is a fun and safe place for massage therapists to network, obtain continuing education, and grow in their careers. We provide an all-in-one home for education and resources under one roof.
Our Festival brings together hands-on learning, professional connection, recognition, and a welcoming atmosphere for massage therapists from across the community.
About the event and location
Festival quick answers
When is the American Massage Championship?
The American Massage Championship takes place just before the Festival, from July 23 to 25, 2027, at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, Nevada.
When and where is the World Massage Festival held?
World Massage Festival is held July 25 to 30, 2027, at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Can I watch the American Massage Championship?
Yes. Spectator attendance is free with an optional donation to a charity for the Deaf Community. You are welcome to watch the nation’s best therapists showcase their skills. There is a fee to register and participate as a Championship competitor.
Will I earn continuing education credits at World Massage Festival?
Absolutely. The Festival is filled with hands-on workshops and classes designed to fulfill or exceed your state’s CE requirements, as well as classes you can take for fun.
What is the average CE requirement for license renewal?
Requirements vary by state. The most common requirement is 24 continuing education hours every two years, although some states require more, some require less, and a handful have no statewide CE requirement. World Massage Festival offers a wide variety of class options, often in a single event. Always check with your state licensing board to confirm your specific renewal requirements.
Does festival registration include the massage-space fee?
For 2027, your registration includes a required massage-space fee. It ensures every participant has access to a table for hands-on practice, so you no longer have to worry about classes not having enough tables.
The Freedom Package
One payment, ongoing Festival access
The Freedom Package is a one-time payment that secures ongoing access to World Massage Festival. It includes:
- Free access to all World Massage Festival classes.
- The ability to earn all the continuing education you need every year, for the life of the Festival.
- No future Festival registration fee.
Is the Freedom Package recurring or annual? No. The Freedom Package is a one-time, non-recurring payment. Once you sign up, that is that.
Disclaimer: World Massage Festival reserves the right to change the terms of these packages or stop offering them to new members at any time.
General information
Registration and Stay & Travel
How do I register for World Massage Festival and the American Massage Championship?
You can register for the Festival and the Championship, as a competitor, through the official World Massage Festival registration portal. Freedom Members use a special link to secure their free class seats.
Are special hotel rates available for attendees?
Yes. World Massage Festival works to secure discounted group rates for attendees. Current accommodation information and the booking link are maintained on the Stay & Travel page.
Owner and steward
Ana Malachowski
Ana Malachowski holds many job titles beyond Licensed Massage Therapist. She is a registered massage therapy continuing education provider, is working toward certification as an aquatic bodywork instructor with WABA, and travels the world bringing various forms of massage education to different nations.
After winning a trip to Su Casa, raffled off and hosted by Mike Hinkle for several years, Ana shared with Mike her heartfelt desire to one day own something like World Massage Festival. As their friendship developed, Ana became an assistant to the Festival, helping Mike plan and carry it out for the last two years.
As their business relationship grew, Mike approached Ana with an offer to purchase World Massage Festival. Ana agreed to purchase it and carry on the legacy of WMF’s founding father, with the stipulation that Mike would help with the transition process.
Founder
Mike Hinkle
Mike Hinkle founded World Massage Festival in 2006 after one year in the massage industry. He saw a large gap in the educational side of the field and a lack of recognition and honor for massage therapy pioneers and instructors who pour their hearts into their work.
Mike recognized the need to honor fantastic therapists throughout time, including people massage therapists might never hear of or learn about during their careers. His heart to recognize and acknowledge the history of other therapists was the foundation in the birth of World Massage Festival.
After Mike’s first AMTA convention experience in Atlanta, Georgia felt more political than helpful, he saw the need for a more relaxed and fun atmosphere. That experience drove him to create World Massage Festival, where education and recognition blend with a more chilled and enjoyable environment.
The first year began by simply making it work with very limited financial support. That foundation created momentum for the next year as people returned with friends. The Festival multiplied year after year, eventually receiving recognition from Caesars, which asked Mike to use its casinos.
World Massage Festival changed Mike through learning curves and the education he received as a massage therapist. He grew into his career alongside the Festival, making connections and friends he now calls family.
After 18 years of carrying and growing World Massage Festival, Mike and his faithful, trusted sidekick Cindy, who handled Festival administration, were ready to hand the Festival to the next generation. In 2024, they sold World Massage Festival to Ana Malachowski, who carries Mike’s legacy and vision forward.
World Massage Festival legacy
A history of gathering, learning, and recognition
World Massage Festival has been built around the belief that education, recognition, and community belong together. Each year reflects the people, places, and professional connections that shaped the Festival’s journey.
2025 Las Vegas, Nevada
World Massage Festival 2027
A Festival built for the whole massage community
Come learn, connect, recognize the people who built this field, and add your story to the legacy.
Explore 2027 Registration