Social media moves fast. Marketers need to learn new skills constantly to keep up. In-person events can help: 80% of professionals say conferences and conventions are critical to their organization’s success. The 2026 lineup of social media conferences has something for everyone. It includes both social media marketing conferences and influencer-focused conventions. Some conferences cater to creators and influencers, while others focus on industry professionals. All of them offer valuable insights, networking, and fresh strategies to sharpen your social media marketing skills.
SXSW 2026
Dates: March 12 to 18, 2026
Location: Austin, Texas
SXSW 2026 is an iconic festival that sits at the intersection of technology and culture. Its programming spans many creative industries. It covers media, innovation, film, music, and more. Attendees can explore cutting-edge tech innovations. They can enjoy film premieres and join fun networking events during this week-long experience.
Social Fresh 2026
Dates: March 19–20, 2026
Location: New York, NY
An in-person social media marketing conference built “by marketers, for marketers.” Social Fresh is a two-day event packed with exclusive case studies, fresh consumer trends, creative strategies and insights on what’s working now in social media.
It brings together leading experts in social media, content and influencer marketing, creator strategy, paid media, community management, and AI to explore current tactics and what’s coming next. This social media networking event is known for practical sessions that help sharpen attendees’ skills and strategy.
Read More: Biggest Social Media Updates 2025
ANA Creator Marketing Conference
Dates: March 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV
A new creator and influencer marketing conference launched by the Association of National Advertisers, focused on the booming creator economy. Billed as “the event for the industry’s top brands, agencies, platforms, and creators,” it offers a front-row seat to the future of creator and influencer marketing.
Over multiple days, expect bold ideas, case studies, and discussions on building brand partnerships with creators, leveraging emerging platforms, and nurturing online communities. The 2026 edition is scheduled for Las Vegas in spring 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed), with Pinterest as a presenting sponsor, signaling a deep dive into social commerce and creator-driven strategy.
Social Media Week 2026
Dates: April 14 to 16, 2026
Location: New York City, New York
Social Media Week 2026 (hosted by Adweek) will center on social-first strategies as a driver of growth. The event is set to feature top industry leaders and marketers. They will tackle pressing issues in social media marketing, including platform fragmentation and the rise of AI-generated content. Expect three days of insightful keynotes, case studies, and hands-on sessions in the heart of NYC.
Social Media Marketing World 2026
Dates: April 28 to 30, 2026
Location: Anaheim, California
Social Media Marketing World 2026 is one of the best social media marketing conferences for hands-on learning. The 2026 convention marks the 13th year of this event. A major focus is the impact of AI on social media strategy. Other core topics include marketing tactics, organic vs. paid social media, and emerging trends in content. Expect sessions from expert trainers that will help you stay ahead of the curve.
ANA Digital & Social Media Conference 2026
Dates: July 8 to 10, 2026
Location: Los Angeles, California
The ANA Digital & Social Media Conference 2026 is known for its emphasis on in-person networking. Marketers gather at this event to connect with peers and keep up with the latest digital marketing trends. Attendees can connect with fellow professionals. They also stay updated on new best practices in social media and digital advertising. Topics on the agenda include retail media networks and connected TV (CTV). Sessions will also cover influencer marketing and the latest AI advancements in marketing.
Content Marketing World 2026
Dates: October 5 to 7, 2026
Location: Denver, Colorado
Content Marketing World 2026 is an annual conference catered toward content marketing professionals. It is a massive event that regularly draws thousands of attendees from the marketing community. Sessions cover a wide range of smart content strategies. Topics include leveraging AI, improving brand storytelling, and digging into marketing analytics. This Content Marketing World conference is a must-visit for anyone looking to level up their content game.
Advertising Week 2026 (New York)
Dates: TBD (expected Fall 2026)
Location: New York City, New York
Advertising Week 2026 is a premier gathering for the broader marketing and advertising industry. It features a mix of panels, seminars, and keynote talks. There are also hands-on workshops and exhibits from top companies. Attendees can network with leaders across advertising, tech, and media. This yearly event acts as a one-stop shop to learn about trends in advertising, branding, and social media marketing in a global context.
Also Read: Top Social Media Trends in 2025
VidSummit 2026
Dates: September 29 to October 1, 2026
Location: Dallas, Texas
VidSummit 2026 is slated for September 29–October 1 in Dallas, Texas. It is one of the leading influencer conventions geared toward video creators and social media influencers. VidSummit offers insider tips on building a personal brand and monetizing content. Attendees learn how to grow their online audiences effectively. Top YouTubers and digital creators often take the stage. They share their strategies and success stories on content creation and audience engagement.
VidCon 2026
Dates: June 25 to 27, 2026
Location: Anaheim, California
VidCon 2026 will take place from June 25–27, 2026, in Anaheim, California. It’s one of the world’s biggest social media events for content creators and fans. VidCon unites online video fans, top creators, and major brands under one roof. The conference offers three distinct tracks: Community, Creator, and Industry. Each track provides a tailored experience for its audience. Whether you’re a superfan, an emerging creator, or an industry professional, VidCon offers sessions and networking designed just for you.
TwitchCon 2026
Dates: TBD (expected in 2026)
Location: San Diego, California (North America); Rotterdam, Netherlands (Europe)
TwitchCon 2026 has not announced exact dates yet. However, it is expected to return to San Diego for its North American edition. This convention is entirely dedicated to Twitch streamers, gamers, and their communities. The whole event revolves around the Twitch streaming culture and platform. Attendees can join panel discussions, community meetups, and live gaming events. It’s also a great place for networking. Creators and fans get to mingle and connect in person with the personalities they follow online. (TwitchCon will also have a European event in 2026, continuing in Rotterdam, for international streamers and fans.)
Final Thoughts
The above conferences are among the best social media conferences to consider for 2026. Each one provides unique value. All these conferences also double as social media networking events.
They are great places to meet peers and industry leaders face-to-face. There’s something for everyone in 2026, from huge conventions to intimate social media seminars and workshops.
Attending one of these social media conventions can help you gain fresh insights and valuable connections. By planning ahead and participating in these social media events, you’ll stay current on trends and bring back actionable ideas to boost your social strategy in the year ahead.
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