Craft Brewers Conference 2026: A fresh format

Sharper focus | As the craft brewing industry continues to evolve, so too does its premier gathering. The 2026 Craft Brewers Conference® returns with a reimagined format, a sharper focus on attendee engagement, and a once-in-a-generation backdrop: Philadelphia, host of the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence.

Promising to bring together thousands of brewing professionals from around the world, CBC 2026 delivers a streamlined, more impactful experience through a bold new schedule, curated programming, and improved accessibility – reflecting the needs of today’s beverage alcohol professionals to maximize value while minimizing time and cost demands. For a movement built on independence, creativity, and community, there could be no better setting.

A reimagined schedule

In 2026, CBC condenses its programming into three high-impact days – Monday 20 April through Wednesday 22 April – to deliver more connection and content in less time.

Monday kicks off with the Opening Keynote featuring Will Guidara, hospitality visionary and author of the New York Times bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality. Guidara, the former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park – named the Best Restaurant in the World – shares insights on how intentional, people-first service can transform businesses and communities. His philosophy on hospitality transcends industries, offering powerful lessons for brewers and business owners alike.

The day continues with a BrewExpo America Preview and closes with the Welcome Reception in the Grand Hall, a high-energy evening featuring local entertainment, Pennsylvania breweries, and signature Philly dishes.

Tuesday and Wednesday center on the BrewExpo America trade show, immersive educational sessions, and sponsor activations. The format is designed to reduce travel time and costs for attendees while maintaining deep engagement and networking opportunities throughout the event.

Throughout the week, the Industry Awards honor innovation, leadership, and collaboration across the brewing community.

The excitement builds to Wednesday afternoon, when Brewers Association President and CEO Bart Watson delivers the Closing Keynote: State of the Industry Address. Known for his data-driven analysis and deep understanding of market trends, Watson will reflect on where the industry stands today – and where it’s heading next.

Immediately following his keynote, the spotlight shifts to the World Beer Cup Awards Ceremony, celebrating brewing excellence on a global stage and closing CBC 2026 on an unforgettable high note.

Curated programming – tailored for every brewery

The 2026 conference introduces curated educational experiences – a more personalized approach to professional development. Whether a brewer at a small startup, a marketing manager at a regional craft brand, or an operations director at a large production facility, every attendee can follow content aligned to their specific challenges and goals.

Programming will span brewing science, distribution strategy, finance, workforce culture, leadership development, and experiential opportunities. The goal: ensure every participant leaves with actionable insights they can apply the moment they return home.

The All-Access Pass

A new All-Access Pass simplifies participation. With one badge, attendees gain entry to all conference programming, the trade show floor, networking functions, sponsor activations, and special events. This unified approach streamlines budgeting for breweries and beverage producers while guaranteeing that no one misses a moment of the CBC experience.

Accessibility and community

CBC’s updated pricing model is designed to make participation more accessible to breweries and beverage producers of all sizes. With flexible options and transparent value, the conference continues to fulfill its mission of supporting the entire craft brewing ecosystem – from first-time entrepreneurs to global leaders.

To help new attendees feel at home, the First-Timers Reception returns – held directly on the trade show floor before the Welcome Reception – offering a friendly introduction to CBC’s community and culture.

Relevance for the international brewing sector

For more than 30 years, the Craft Brewers Conference has served as a platform for technical knowledge exchange and international cooperation. It has been the place where ideas are shared, collaborations are born, and the future of brewing is shaped. The changes debuting in 2026 – shorter schedule, curated learning, accessible pricing, and reimagined networking – are built for the realities of today’s industry while honoring its creative, independent spirit.

Anchored by Will Guidara and Bart Watson, CBC 2026 will inspire attendees to think beyond the glass – to the people, stories, and possibilities that make craft brewing thrive.

Visit CraftBrewersConference.com to learn more.

See you in Philly!