Tip number six in my tips for 2026 is simple: attend a guitar show. A guitar show is a wonderful place to see all different types of guitars—new and old—and to experience them up close. Sometimes we don’t even know what we like because we haven’t seen it, heard it, or felt it in our hands. Your local shops hardly carry any archtops, but at a show you can try all makes, models, and years in one room and discover what truly fits your sound. I also point you toward a few events I’m excited about. I’m a big fan of the shows put on by the “four amigos” at TexasGuitarShows.com—they’re all over the country, so there’s no reason you can’t attend one. Guitar College will be sponsoring two events: the Central Coast Jazz Guitar Festival (March 13–15) in Buellton near Solvang, with exhibitors, teachers, classes, and jam rooms; and the Yosemite Guitar & Bass Workshop (June dates listed on the site), an intensive few days with no distractions—just you, your guitar, great teachers, and a beautiful setting. Bottom line: get out of the house, get inspired, and make some real strides.