The Winter Music Conference (WMC) returns to Miami. It celebrates its 36th edition. The dates are March 24-26, 2026. The Kimpton EPIC Hotel hosts the event. This is the Official Miami Music Week Hotel. WMC is the world’s longest-running electronic music conference. It serves as a global hub for music innovation. This year’s program promises more depth. A second wave of programming was just announced. Many new speakers and partners are joining.
Event Details and Location
The conference takes place in Downtown Miami. It runs from Tuesday, March 24 to Thursday, March 26, 2026. The Kimpton EPIC Hotel offers a central location. It perfectly aligns with Miami Music Week. This setting is ideal for industry connection. It blends business with the vibrant Miami atmosphere.
Two Tracks Shape the Experience
WMC 2026 features two distinct tracks. The WMC // INDUSTRY track targets professionals. It covers business strategy and tech. Marketing and dance culture shifts are explored. The WMC // CREATORS track focuses on artists. DJs and producers will find workshops here. Gear demos and practical career sessions are included. This dual approach serves the entire music ecosystem.
Expanded Programming Announced
The second wave of programming reveals many new names. Artists like Sara Landry and Radio Slave will speak. DJ Minx and Doc Martin are also on the roster. Junior Sanchez and Lizzy Jane join them. Arielle Free and OOKAY are confirmed. Sirus Hood and Alleycvt will participate. Sydney Blu and Sippy add to the lineup. Sandflower Dyson and Eli from Soulclap are featured. Representatives from SoundCloud and TikTok are present. Major labels like Ultra Records and Dirtybird are involved. Many other industry leaders are confirmed. This ensures diverse and current discussions.
Innovative Features for 2026
New features enhance the 2026 conference. The A&R Pop-Up Lounge is a key addition. It partners with Label Radar. Artists can submit demos directly to labels. Participating labels include Ultra Records and Dirtybird. Create Music Group imprints are also present. The Beatport Live rooftop pool party series returns. It spans three days of music. Top labels curate these showcase events. Mood Child and Rekids are featured curators. DJ Sneak and Danny Tenaglia will perform. The SoundOn at TikTok Presents mixer offers networking. It connects emerging talent with industry players. The WMC Gear Exhibition Room returns. It allows hands-on technology exploration. Brands like AlphaTheta and L-Acoustics showcase their latest gear.
The IDMAs Return to Their Roots
The International Dance Music Awards (IDMAs) are back. They reunite with their original home at WMC. The IDMAs were founded in 1985. This year, they partner with Bridges for Music. They will host a gala celebration. This event honors achievements in electronic music. It also supports music education initiatives. The IDMAs have a long history of recognition. Their return highlights WMC’s legacy.
A Legacy of Music and Innovation
Winter Music Conference began in 1985. It was founded to unite the electronic music community. WMC helped popularize global dance music. It fostered countless collaborations and trends. The conference has historically drawn thousands. Attendees come from over 70 countries. It has been a launchpad for many artists. It even gave birth to Ultra Music Festival. ULTRA Worldwide now owns WMC. We Group handles production for this edition. This partnership revitalizes the event. It focuses on education and professional growth.
Connecting the Music Industry in Miami
WMC 2026 offers unparalleled networking. It brings together DJs, producers, and executives. Label owners and managers will be present. Promoters and tech innovators attend. Aspiring creators and passionate fans gather. The conference directly feeds into Ultra Music Festival. This creates a continuous week of electronic music. Miami truly becomes the global epicenter. The event promises insights into music’s future. Topics include AI, sustainability, and artist careers. It is a vital gathering for the music industry.
Shaping the Future of Dance Music
The conference explores pressing issues. It covers AI’s impact on music. Sustainability in club culture is a focus. Artist ownership and new revenue streams are discussed. WMC 2026 is more than just a conference. It is a dynamic platform for growth. It connects the past, present, and future of dance music. Attendees will gain practical skills. They will make valuable industry connections. The energy in Miami will be palpable. WMC is set to redefine electronic music events. It solidifies its status as a cornerstone of global music news.
