The Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo is a premier event dedicated to the craft spirits industry, held annually in Las Vegas, USA. This conference and expo bring together distillers, vendors, industry experts, and enthusiasts from all over the country and beyond. It offers a unique platform to explore the latest trends, innovations, and technologies in craft distilling while fostering networking and business opportunities within the spirits community.
Venue and Date
The event is hosted at the Las Vegas Convention Center, one of the largest and most versatile venues in the city. The venue is located centrally on the Las Vegas Strip, offering easy access to a variety of amenities, accommodations, and entertainment options.
For 2025, the Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo is scheduled to take place from October 14th to October 16th. The event runs over three full days, starting each day at 9:00 AM and concluding by 6:00 PM. This timing allows attendees to fully immerse themselves in the conference programs, vendor exhibits, and tasting sessions.
Product categories and exhibitors
This expo showcases an extensive range of product categories central to the craft distilling industry. Visitors can expect to see:
- Craft spirits including whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and brandy from small-scale producers.
- Distilling equipment and machinery such as stills, fermentation tanks, and bottling lines.
- Ingredients and raw materials suppliers offering grains, yeast, botanicals, and flavorings.
- Packaging and labeling solutions tailored for craft spirit brands.
- Marketing, branding, and distribution service providers.
- Technology innovations including quality control systems and compliance software.
The vendor floor typically hosts over 150 exhibitors, ranging from established suppliers to innovative startups focused on sustainability and craft authenticity.
Visitor count and audience profile
The Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo attracts around 3,000 to 4,000 attendees each year. The audience includes:
- Craft distillers and brand owners eager to discover new suppliers and trends.
- Distillery operators and production managers.
- Beverage industry professionals and distributors.
- Bar owners, restaurateurs, and hospitality buyers.
- Industry consultants, marketers, and media representatives.
This diverse attendee profile ensures rich networking possibilities and knowledge exchange, making it a vital event for anyone involved in craft spirits.
Nearby hotels and accommodations
Since the conference is located on the Las Vegas Strip, attendees have a vast range of nearby hotels to choose from, suiting various budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:
- The Venetian Resort: A luxury hotel offering spacious suites and excellent amenities, just minutes from the convention center.
- MGM Grand: One of the largest resorts on the Strip, featuring multiple dining and entertainment venues.
- Caesars Palace: Known for its classic Vegas grandeur and prime location.
- Tropicana Las Vegas: A more affordable option with comfortable accommodations close to the venue.
- Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel: A boutique hotel offering a quieter stay but still within walking distance.
Booking early is recommended, as these hotels often fill up quickly during major events.
Cost and registration details
Registration fees for the Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo vary based on the type of pass and early bird discounts. Generally, the pricing structure includes:
- Full conference pass: Grants access to all keynote sessions, workshops, vendor expo, and tasting events.
- Expo-only pass: Provides entry to the vendor floor and select sessions but excludes conference workshops.
- Student or industry newcomer discounts are sometimes available with proper verification.
Early registration is encouraged to secure the best rates. Group discounts may also be available for companies sending multiple representatives.
Benefits of attending the show
Attending the Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo offers numerous benefits for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike:
- Gain insights from expert-led seminars covering distilling techniques, regulatory updates, marketing strategies, and sustainability practices.
- Discover the latest equipment and ingredient innovations that can enhance production efficiency and product quality.
- Build relationships with suppliers, distributors, and fellow distillers, opening doors to new business collaborations.
- Sample a wide variety of craft spirits in dedicated tasting sessions, providing firsthand experience of market trends.
- Access valuable resources on compliance, safety standards, and industry best practices.
- Stay ahead of emerging trends through panel discussions and networking events.
- Showcase your brand or products if you participate as an exhibitor, increasing visibility among key decision-makers.
The Craft Distillers Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo in Las Vegas is an indispensable event for anyone serious about the craft spirits industry. Whether you are a distiller, supplier, or industry professional, the conference offers unparalleled opportunities to learn, network, and grow your business. With its strategic location, diverse exhibitor presence, and comprehensive program, the event continues to set the standard for craft distilling conferences in the United States.