If you’re part of the craft brewing world — or even just thinking about joining it — there’s one event that should be on your calendar: the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America. Happening in Las Vegas, USA, this annual gathering is one of the most important events for small and independent brewers across the globe.
It’s not just a trade show. It’s a place to learn, connect, explore, and get inspired by the possibilities brewing has to offer. Whether you run a brewery, work in the industry, or want to open your own taproom one day, this conference has something for you.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about the 2025 edition.
Where and When Is It Happening?
- Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
- Dates: April 28 – May 1, 2025
Las Vegas is no stranger to big events, and the Convention Center is one of the most advanced and accessible venues in the country. It’s close to the Strip, surrounded by restaurants and entertainment, and has all the space needed for a conference of this size.
What Is the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America?
This event is a blend of two key experiences:
- Craft Brewers Conference (CBC): An educational conference packed with sessions for brewery professionals — from startup to advanced
- BrewExpo America: One of the largest brewing industry trade shows in the U.S., with hundreds of exhibitors showing off the latest products and innovations
Together, they create a complete experience for learning, sourcing, and networking. And it’s all designed to help the small and independent brewing community grow stronger.
What You’ll See at BrewExpo America
Walking the show floor is like stepping into a brewer’s dream. You’ll see:
- Brewing systems and tanks of all sizes
- Canning and bottling lines
- Lab equipment and testing kits
- Sustainable packaging solutions
- Ingredients: hops, malts, yeasts, and flavoring agents
- Taproom furniture, POS systems, and glassware
- Safety gear, apparel, and cleaning products
Whether you’re just browsing or seriously shopping, this expo gives you a chance to compare tools, ask questions, and see products in action.
What You’ll Learn at the Conference
The Craft Brewers Conference goes way beyond the basics. It includes:
- Educational sessions covering brewing science, equipment maintenance, QA/QC, and fermentation
- Marketing and branding classes tailored for craft brewers
- Finance and business strategy sessions to help you grow profitably
- Sustainability and operations insights to keep your brewery efficient
- Hands-on workshops and deep dives with real-world examples
The talks are led by industry experts, fellow brewers, scientists, and even successful business owners. You can sit in on sessions that match your current challenges — whether that’s starting out, scaling up, or staying ahead.
Who Should Attend?
This event is perfect for:
- Brewery owners and founders
- Brewmasters and production teams
- Taproom managers and sales staff
- Equipment suppliers and ingredient vendors
- Distributors, marketers, and logistics professionals
- Aspiring brewers and students
- Anyone passionate about the craft beer industry
Even if you’re not working in the field yet, attending the show gives you an inside look into how the industry works — and where you might fit in.
Cost to Attend
Pricing depends on how much of the event you want to access:
- Full Conference Pass (early registration): Starts around $650–$800
- Expo Only Pass: Lower cost, perfect for those only visiting the trade floor
- Additional Workshops or Brewery Tours: May require separate fees
- Group Rates and Member Discounts: Available through the Brewers Association
It’s best to register early to save money and ensure your spot in popular sessions or events.
Where to Stay Nearby
Las Vegas has no shortage of hotel options. Some of the most convenient ones near the venue include:
- Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino – Connected to the Convention Center
- Las Vegas Marriott – Just a short walk away
- Renaissance Las Vegas – Quiet, clean, and business-friendly
- The STRAT Hotel – A more budget-friendly option close by
- The Venetian, Bellagio, and other Strip hotels – A short ride from the venue
Most hotels in Vegas offer great amenities, and many offer discounted rates during conference weeks — but rooms go fast, so booking early is a smart move.
Perks of Attending the Show
There’s a lot more to this event than just the talks and trade booths. Here’s what makes it special:
- Networking events where you can meet brewers from all over the world
- Welcome receptions and after-hours parties in iconic Las Vegas spots
- Brewery tours in and around the city
- Industry award ceremonies, including the popular World Beer Cup
- Tasting lounges featuring new products and collaborations
It’s a great place to be social, make friends, share stories, and exchange ideas.
Why You Should Attend in 2025
Still wondering if it’s worth going? Here are some reasons why thousands of brewing professionals make it a point to attend every year:
- Stay current with the latest brewing trends and tools
- Meet suppliers face-to-face, ask questions, and test products
- Get inspired by success stories and creative brewing ideas
- Solve real challenges with advice from experts and peers
- Expand your network in an industry built on collaboration
- Have fun in a city known for excitement, food, and entertainment
Whether you’re starting your journey or looking to take your brewery to the next level, this show delivers the tools, people, and ideas that can make it happen.
Getting There
Las Vegas is easy to reach:
- By Air: Fly into Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran) — just minutes from the Strip
- By Car: Drive in and find parking at the Convention Center or nearby garages
- By Transit: Vegas has monorail service directly to the Convention Center
Once you’re in the area, getting around is simple — rideshare, taxi, or even walking.
Tips Before You Go
- Register early to get the best prices and session availability
- Plan your schedule — the event is packed, and it helps to know which sessions and booths you don’t want to miss
- Download the event app (once available) to stay organized
- Dress comfortably but professionally — you’ll be on your feet a lot
- Bring business cards or a digital contact method — networking is constant
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself — Vegas and beer can be a strong combo
Final Thoughts
The Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America is more than just a trade show. It’s a community event that celebrates what makes the craft beer world so exciting — the passion, the people, the creativity, and the constant push to do things better. It’s where learning meets opportunity, and where connections are made over shared values and great brews.
If you’re serious about brewing, dreaming of opening your own place, or already in the thick of it — this event will give you exactly what you need to grow and thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to register and explore more? Visit:
https://www.craftbrewersconference.com