I've been a performing magician for many years and have never attended a convention. I've been to many lectures, but just never a convention or similar event. Be that as it may, I'm curious what people mind suggest to be the best FIRST convention someone like me should attend? I know very few magicians personally so I wouldn't be going to meet up with friends, just for the experience. Suggestions?

I highly recommend the IBM convention

I would recommend Magic Live. There is a great variety of lectures, a wonderful dealers hall and it is set in Las Vegas, so you can see top notch magic shows like Mac King and David Copperfield.