Conferences In California, 2024

California is home to a dynamic conference scene that attracts industry leaders, professionals, and innovators from around the world. These conferences span a wide range of sectors, including technology, healthcare, entertainment, education, and sustainability. Here are some of the most famous current and upcoming conferences in California:

Tech Conferences

TechCrunch Disrupt (San Francisco):

This annual event, held in September, focuses on startup innovation and the future of technology. The event draws entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders from around the globe. It features startup pitches, keynote speakers from major tech companies, and networking opportunities.

Google I/O (Mountain View):

Usually held in May, Google I/O is one of the most anticipated tech conferences, showcasing the latest in Android, AI, and software development. It’s a must-attend for developers and tech enthusiasts.

Dreamforce (San Francisco):

Organized by Salesforce, Dreamforce takes place every year in September or October. It is one of the largest tech conferences globally, focusing on customer relationship management (CRM) and innovation, drawing professionals from various industries.

Healthcare and Biotech Conferences

J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference (San Francisco):

This invite-only conference held in January is one of the largest healthcare investment symposiums in the world. It brings together industry leaders from biotech, pharma, and healthcare technology sectors to discuss trends and business opportunities.

BioInternational Convention (San Diego):

A prominent global event for the biotechnology industry, held in June, it brings together the global biotech community for networking, business development, and insight into the latest industry trends.

MedTech Conference (Anaheim):

This annual event, typically held in September, brings together leaders in medical technology, device manufacturing, and healthcare innovation to discuss regulatory updates, new products, and future trends.

Entertainment and Creative Industry Conferences

VidCon (Anaheim):

A prominent event in the digital video and creator space, VidCon is held annually in June. It attracts content creators, social media influencers, and brands to explore trends in video marketing and content creation.

SXSW (South by Southwest) Satellite Events (Los Angeles):

While the main SXSW event takes place in Austin, Texas, there are satellite events and industry-specific meetups in California, particularly in Los Angeles, focusing on film, music, and interactive media.

American Film Market (Santa Monica):

Held in November, this is a major conference for the independent film industry. It serves as a marketplace where film producers, distributors, and financiers gather to network and make deals.

Business and Entrepreneurship Conferences

TED (Monterey/Los Angeles):

Though the main TED conference has relocated, there are still key TED-related events and independently organized TEDx events across California. TED is known for its inspiring talks by thought leaders across various fields, including science, business, and the arts.

The Women’s Leadership Conference (Long Beach):

Held annually in March, this event empowers women in leadership roles by providing them with tools, strategies, and support for success in business and entrepreneurship.

California Economic Summit (Location Varies):

This is a key event held each fall that brings together leaders from business, government, and nonprofit sectors to discuss economic policies and sustainable growth strategies across the state.

Sustainability and Environment Conferences

Verge (San Jose):

This sustainability-focused event takes place annually in October and brings together thought leaders, businesses, and government officials to discuss the future of clean energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable innovation.

Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (San Francisco):

This event, held in November, focuses on sustainable building, architecture, and eco-friendly design, attracting professionals in green construction and energy-efficient building solutions.

Bioneers (Marin County):

Held in October, the Bioneers Conference is a leading event for environmental sustainability, social justice, and nature-inspired innovations. It brings together visionaries and activists to explore solutions for a sustainable future.

Education and Learning Conferences

ASCD Annual Conference (Anaheim):

The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development hosts its annual conference for educators and administrators to share new teaching strategies and classroom innovations. This event takes place in March.

California Association for the Gifted (CAG) Conference (Palm Springs):

This educational event in February is designed for teachers, administrators, and parents of gifted children. It covers best practices, curriculum design, and strategies to support high-ability learners.

SXSW EDU (Los Angeles Satellite Events):

Similar to SXSW’s focus on entertainment and media, the EDU version offers educators an opportunity to learn about new technologies, tools, and techniques for enhancing the learning experience.

Legal and Compliance Conferences

LegalTech West Coast (Los Angeles):

Held in June, this conference is part of the larger LegalTech series, focusing on technology’s impact on the legal profession. It covers topics like AI in law, compliance, and legal tech innovations.

California Lawyers Association Annual Meeting (San Diego):

This event in October provides legal professionals with the latest updates on legislation, regulations, and compliance in California law.

Design and Innovation Conferences

Adobe MAX (Los Angeles):

Known as “The Creativity Conference,” Adobe MAX happens annually in October and brings together creative professionals across industries like design, photography, video, and digital media. The event features Adobe’s latest software updates and workshops by industry experts.

Dwell on Design (Los Angeles):

This architecture and design conference takes place in June, focusing on modern home design trends, interior decor, and innovative building solutions.

Agriculture and Food Conferences

World Ag Expo (Tulare):

The World Ag Expo is the largest agricultural trade show in the world and takes place every February in California’s Central Valley. It focuses on agricultural innovations, farm equipment, and sustainable farming practices.

Fancy Food Show (San Francisco):

Held in January, this is a premier event for the specialty food industry, showcasing gourmet products, new trends, and culinary innovations.

Upcoming Conferences in 2024:

CES Satellite Events (Los Angeles, January 2024):

A spin-off from the Las Vegas-based Consumer Electronics Show, various tech companies host satellite events in California to showcase new gadgets and innovations.

AI Summit (San Francisco, March 2024):

Focused on artificial intelligence, this conference gathers experts, researchers, and tech companies to discuss the future of AI and its applications across industries.

With California’s diverse industries and innovative culture, the state continues to host a wide array of conferences that cater to professionals from nearly every field. Whether you’re in tech, entertainment, education, or sustainability, there’s a conference in California to expand your knowledge and network with leaders in your industry.