Why Attend Food & Beverage Events in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is more than just a city of movies and celebrities. It’s a hub for food trends, innovation, and global flavours. Each year, LA hosts many major food and beverage trade events. These shows attract:
- Restaurant owners
- Food entrepreneurs
- Chefs and caterers
- Retailers and wholesalers
- Distributors and suppliers
- Food lovers and curious visitors
Whether you’re in the business or just exploring, these expos offer a world of ideas, tastes, and business opportunities.
1. Natural Products Expo West (Near Los Angeles)
- Location: Anaheim Convention Centre (about 35 miles from LA)
- Time: Every March
- Cost: Free for verified professionals
- Nearby Hotels: Hilton Anaheim, Anaheim Marriott, Hyatt Place
What to Expect:
- 3,000+ food, drink, and wellness brands
- Thousands of new natural and organic products
- Cooking demos, expert panels, and tastings
- Great for those in health-focused food businesses
Why Go:
It’s the most significant event for natural, clean-label, and wellness foods. If you want to keep up with market trends, this is the place to be.
2. SIAL America (With Strong LA Participation)
- Location: Las Vegas Convention Centre
- Time: March (Annually)
- Cost: Free with pre-registration
- Nearby Stay (for LA attendees): Travel to Las Vegas or join virtually
What to Expect:
- 60+ countries participating
- International food, beverage, and packaging brands
- One-on-one business meetings
- Product tastings from around the world
Why Go:
Perfect for importers, exporters, and those looking to expand globally. Many LA companies attend or exhibit.
3. The Los Angeles Coffee Festival
- Location: Magic Box @ The Reef, Downtown LA
- Time: Every November
- Cost: Tickets from $35 (General Admission)
- Nearby Hotels: Freehand LA, The Hoxton, Ace Hotel
What to Expect:
- Tastings from top coffee brands
- Live latte art battles and workshops
- Panels on coffee trends and sustainability
- Tea, chocolate, and café equipment booths
Why Go:
Ideal for café owners, baristas, and coffee fans. Learn, taste, and connect in one eventful weekend.
4. Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo
- Location: Los Angeles Convention Centre
- Time: Held in August
- Cost: Free if registered early
- Nearby Hotels: Hotel Indigo, Sheraton Grand, JW Marriott LA
What to Expect:
- Focused on restaurants and foodservice businesses
- Equipment, ingredients, POS systems, and more
- Live cooking demos by well-known chefs
- Business talks and industry insights
Why Go:
If you run a restaurant or are starting one, this show is a must. You’ll leave with new ideas, tools, and contacts.
5. Plant-Based World Expo – West Edition
- Location: Los Angeles Convention Centre
- Time: September or October
- Cost: Free for trade visitors
- Nearby Hotels: The Wayfarer, InterContinental LA, Moxy Downtown
What to Expect:
- 100% plant-based product showcase
- Dairy alternatives, meat-free products, and healthy snacks
- Speakers discussing trends and nutrition
- Great space for sampling and connecting
Why Go:
The plant-based industry is booming. Whether you sell, serve, or develop plant-based items, you’ll get fresh insights and ideas.
What You Gain from Attending These Shows
Here are just a few of the real-world perks:
- Discover New Products: Be among the first to see what’s trending
- Meet Industry Experts: Build strong business relationships
- Grow Your Network: Connect with brands, buyers, and service providers
- Learn From the Best: Attend workshops, demos, and educational talks
- Expand Your Business: Meet potential suppliers and customers
- Taste and Experience: Try new food, drinks, and tools for your business
Tips Before You Go
Make the most of your visit with these simple tips:
- Register Early: Avoid entry fees and long lines
- Plan Your Day: Check event schedules ahead of time
- Bring Business Cards: Always be ready to network
- Dress Smart & Comfortable: You’ll walk a lot
- Book Your Stay Early: Hotels fill up fast during big expos
- Take Notes: You’ll get loads of ideas—don’t forget them
Where to Stay Near Expo Venues
If you’re attending an event at the Los Angeles Convention Centre, try:
- JW Marriott at LA Live
- Hotel Figueroa
- E-Central Downtown LA
- InterContinental Downtown LA
For Anaheim events, stay near the convention centre:
- Hilton Anaheim
- SpringHill Suites
- Hyatt Regency Orange County
All offer superb amenities, walking distance access, and business-friendly setups.
Final Thoughts
Food and beverage expos in Los Angeles are more than just trade shows. Their experiences are full of flavour, learning, and connections. Whether you’re a business owner, a buyer, or a curious foodie, there’s something for you here.
With so many exciting events each year, LA is a leader in the global food and beverage industry. Take the opportunity to explore, taste, learn, and grow. It’s time to put your brand—or your passion—on the food map.