California is a major hub for the food industry, hosting some of the most influential trade events and expos in the United States. These gatherings attract thousands of industry professionals, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and foodservice operators. Whether you are looking to explore new products, network with industry leaders, or stay on top of the latest trends, California’s food trade shows offer valuable opportunities. Here’s a detailed overview of 7 to 10 top food trade events and expos held in California, including key information like venue, product categories, visitor and exhibitor counts, nearby hotels, and more.
1. Natural Products Expo West
Industry: Natural, Organic & Healthy Products
Venue: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA
Product categories: Organic foods, supplements, beverages, health & wellness products
Visitor count: Over 85,000
Exhibitor count: Around 3,000
Date & time: Typically held in early March, 4 days event
Cost: Varies; early bird and group discounts available
Nearby hotels: Hilton Anaheim, Marriott Anaheim, Residence Inn by Marriott
Benefits: This is the largest natural, organic, and healthy products event in North America. Attendees gain access to cutting-edge product innovations, networking with buyers, and educational sessions from industry experts. Exhibitors showcase everything from plant-based foods to clean supplements, making it a comprehensive platform for health-focused brands.
2. Specialty Food Association’s Winter & Summer Fancy Food Shows
Industry: Specialty Food and Beverage
Venue: Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA (Winter Show) / Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA (Summer Show)
Product categories: Gourmet foods, artisanal beverages, specialty snacks, ethnic foods
Visitor count: 20,000+
Exhibitor count: 1,400+
Date & time: Winter Show in January; Summer Show in June, both 3-4 days
Cost: Registration fees apply, with discounts for members
Nearby hotels: Hyatt Regency San Francisco (Moscone), Anaheim Marriott (Anaheim)
Benefits: The Fancy Food Shows are the go-to events for discovering innovative specialty food products and expanding retail and distribution networks. Educational seminars, tastings, and networking receptions add value for all attendees.
3. Food Expo California
Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing and Processing
Venue: Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA
Product categories: Food processing machinery, packaging, ingredients, food safety technology
Visitor count: Approximately 10,000
Exhibitor count: 300+
Date & time: Annually in October, 3 days
Cost: General admission tickets available; trade professionals often get free access
Nearby hotels: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel, Omni Los Angeles Hotel
Benefits: Food Expo California is ideal for manufacturers and suppliers looking to explore the latest in food processing technology and packaging solutions. It provides direct access to equipment demonstrations, vendor consultations, and regulatory updates.
4. California Food & Beverage Expo
Industry: Food & Beverage Retail and Manufacturing
Venue: Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA
Product categories: Packaged foods, beverages, dairy, bakery, and snacks
Visitor count: 7,000+
Exhibitor count: 200+
Date & time: Usually held in late September, 2 days
Cost: Free for qualified trade professionals; registration required
Nearby hotels: Hyatt Regency Santa Clara, Hilton Santa Clara
Benefits: This expo caters to both established and emerging brands seeking to connect with retailers, distributors, and foodservice buyers. There are opportunities to attend workshops on sales growth, market trends, and regulatory compliance.
5. World Ag Expo
Industry: Agriculture and Food Production
Venue: International Agri-Center, Tulare, CA
Product categories: Fresh produce, agricultural technology, food processing, farm equipment
Visitor count: Over 100,000
Exhibitor count: 1,500+
Date & time: Annually in February, 3 days
Cost: Admission is free
Nearby hotels: Best Western Tulare, Holiday Inn Express Tulare
Benefits: Although more agriculture-focused, this event is essential for anyone involved in food production, farm-to-table operations, and fresh food supply chains. It provides exposure to innovative farming technologies and food safety standards.
6. WestPack
Industry: Packaging for Food and Beverage
Venue: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA
Product categories: Packaging machinery, materials, labeling, automation for food and beverage industries
Visitor count: 10,000+
Exhibitor count: 400+
Date & time: Annually in March, 3 days
Cost: Registration fees vary
Nearby hotels: Anaheim Marriott, Hilton Anaheim
Benefits: WestPack focuses on the packaging side of the food industry, offering insight into new materials, automation, and sustainable packaging solutions. It is essential for brands looking to improve shelf appeal and reduce environmental impact.
7. California Restaurant Expo
Industry: Foodservice, Restaurant Supplies
Venue: San Francisco Marriott Marquis, San Francisco, CA
Product categories: Kitchen equipment, foodservice supplies, beverages, and restaurant technology
Visitor count: 5,000+
Exhibitor count: 150+
Date & time: Annually in May, 2 days
Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on package
Nearby hotels: Hilton San Francisco Union Square, Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Benefits: This expo is perfect for restaurateurs, chefs, and foodservice professionals seeking the latest kitchen technology, menu trends, and operational solutions. Educational panels and tastings enhance the experience.
8. Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival
Industry: Food and Beverage, Culinary Arts
Venue: Various locations in Los Angeles, CA
Product categories: Gourmet foods, wines, spirits, craft beers
Visitor count: 15,000+
Exhibitor count: Numerous chefs, wineries, and food brands participate
Date & time: Annually in August, multiple days
Cost: Ticket packages vary widely
Nearby hotels: The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott Los Angeles
Benefits: While more of a public event, it attracts industry insiders looking to connect with chefs, beverage producers, and food artisans. It is an excellent networking event with a festive atmosphere.
9. Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America
Industry: Craft Beer and Beverage
Venue: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA
Product categories: Craft beer, brewing equipment, ingredients, packaging
Visitor count: 13,000+
Exhibitor count: 600+
Date & time: Annually in April, 4 days
Cost: Registration fees apply
Nearby hotels: Hilton Anaheim, Residence Inn Anaheim Resort
Benefits: This is a must-attend event for brewers and beverage professionals focused on craft beer trends, brewing technology, and distribution strategies.
10. California Cheese Festival
Industry: Dairy and Specialty Cheese
Venue: Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa, CA
Product categories: Artisan cheeses, dairy products, food pairings
Visitor count: 5,000+
Exhibitor count: 100+
Date & time: Annually in July, 2 days
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Nearby hotels: Flamingo Resort & Spa, Hotel La Rose
Benefits: A niche event that celebrates California’s rich cheese heritage. Ideal for cheese makers, retailers, and enthusiasts interested in artisan dairy products.
Benefits of Attending Food Trade Shows in California
Attending food trade shows in California presents numerous advantages. Industry professionals can:
- Discover innovative products and emerging trends before they hit the market.
- Build relationships with suppliers, buyers, and potential business partners.
- Gain knowledge from expert-led workshops, panels, and seminars.
- Explore solutions that improve product quality, safety, and sustainability.
- Network with peers and influencers across multiple sectors of the food industry.
- Access unique promotional opportunities to increase brand visibility.
These events are designed to cater to a diverse range of stakeholders, from small artisan producers to multinational corporations.
Nearby Stay and Travel Tips
Most major California food expos are held in cities like Anaheim, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Santa Clara. These locations offer extensive hotel options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations. Popular hotels near the venues include Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and boutique properties that provide convenience and comfort.
For travel, major airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and John Wayne Airport (SNA) serve the area with easy connections. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and rental cars provide flexible transportation options.
Where to Book Tickets and More Information
For those interested in attending these top food trade events and expos in California, official event websites are the best source for up-to-date information on dates, registration, ticket prices, and exhibitor details.
To explore and book tickets for multiple events, visit the original websites through this centralized directory:
https://www.tsnn.com