The Winter Music Conference (WMC), the longest-running conference in the dance music industry, is gearing up for its highly anticipated return in 2026. Scheduled for March 24–26 at the Kimpton EPIC Hotel in Downtown Miami, this 36th edition aims to connect industry veterans with emerging talent and foster collaboration across the electronic music landscape.
WMC 2026 will feature a dual-track educational structure tailored to the unique needs of various industry sectors. The Industry track will delve into the commercial aspects of electronic music, addressing topics such as streaming economics and strategies for artists to cultivate direct relationships with their audience through brand partnerships. Meanwhile, the Creators track will offer technical workshops and panels focused on enhancing studio workflows and integrating new technologies into live performance settings.
A notable addition to this year’s programming is the A&R Pop-Up Lounge, created in collaboration with Label Radar. This dedicated space will facilitate direct interactions between artists and representatives from leading electronic music labels, including Ultra Records and mau5trap. Participants will have the opportunity to submit demos and engage in networking sessions designed to advance their careers.
Furthermore, the WMC Gear Exhibition Room will showcase the innovative L-Acoustics DJ spatial audio system, which allows DJs to manipulate tracks using machine learning and spatial positioning, heralding a new era in live performances. The event will also feature the Beatport Live pool party series, held on the rooftop of the Kimpton EPIC, showcasing prominent labels and artists in house and techno.
With the return of the International Dance Music Awards (IDMAs) and the introduction of new professional certifications, WMC 2026 is set to become a pivotal gathering for the global electronic music community. Badges for the event are currently available for purchase.
