Set for March 24–26 at Downtown Miami’s Kimpton EPIC Hotel, Winter Music Conference will continue its legacy as the longest-running electronic music conference.
Established in 1985 by industry visionaries Bill Kelly and Louis Possenti, Winter Music Conference has cemented its status as a defining institution in global electronic music. For nearly four decades, its legacy has fostered innovation across music, technology, education, and culture. Acquired by ULTRA Worldwide in 2018, WMC held a conference in 2019, followed by a five-year hiatus before returning to Miami Beach’s Eden Roc Hotel in 2025. Looking ahead to next year, the world-class forum has announced its consecutive return, this time at the official hotel partner of Miami Music Week.
Kicking off at its new headquarters, Downtown Miami’s Kimpton EPIC Hotel, on Tuesday, March 24, WMC 2026 will engage in three full days of pool parties, exclusive panels, keynote speeches, exhibitions, and the inaugural International Dance Music Awards (IDMA) Gala, all overlooking South Florida’s historic Biscayne Bay.
Winter Music Conference 2026 will offer two distinct programming tracks for industry professionals and creators alike. The WMC // INDUSTRY track will consist of panels and workshops touching on event production, emerging technologies, and the dance music business as a whole. Alternatively, the WMC // CREATORS track, expertly tailored for DJs, producers, and content creators, will tackle artistic growth through artist-led seminars, career-path breakout sessions, and gear demos and showcases.
Following badge pickup and the opening pool party on March 24, and after a full day of panels and networking on the 25th, the world-class forum will culminate on March 26 with the Bridges for Music × International Dance Music Awards Gala. A momentous collaboration between the IDMAs and a global nonprofit committed to “empowering undeserved communities through music and education,” known for its Skrillex, Martin Garrix, and Black Coffee-approved South African Music Academy, the 2026 Gala will feature award presentations and highly anticipated performances, all in support of Bridges for Music’s social impact mission.
Amidst the chaos of Miami Music Week, expect Winter Music Conference 2026 to be a safe haven for genuine human connection. Those interested in Early Bird WMC Access and/or Pro Badges can visit the conference’s official website for details.
