CiderCon® 2026 Arrives February 2–5 in Providence, RI: Celebrating a Category on the Rise
Portland, OR – While overall alcohol sales across the United States continue to soften, hard cider is gaining momentum, and the data confirms it. After two consecutive years of steady growth, the hard cider category is reporting year-to-date increases in both dollar sales (+1.9%) and volume (+1.7%). This upward trend is driven by the continued strength of regional craft producers along with renewed growth among national brands.
This positive trajectory sets the stage for the industry’s premier gathering: CiderCon® 2026, presented by the American Cider Association, taking place February 2–5, 2026 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. Nearly 900 professionals from around the world participated last year including orchardists, cidermakers, taproom managers, distributors, retailers, and suppliers.
“Cider is not just holding its own in a challenging beverage landscape. It is growing because innovation, craftsmanship, and passion are alive and thriving in this industry,” said Monica Cohen, CEO of the American Cider Association. “CiderCon® is where that energy comes together. It is where knowledge is shared, relationships are built, and the future of cider is shaped. Providence is the place to be for anyone serious about the success of this category.”
Official CiderCon® programming will run Wednesday, February 4 through Thursday, February 5. The conference will feature multiple educational tracks, expert-led sessions, tastings, and in-depth conversations covering production, terroir, marketing, business strategy, and category development.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive before the official start of CiderCon® and stay through the week to experience the full scope of learning, networking, and collaboration that defines CiderCon® each year.
Tours begin on Monday, followed by workshops and certification exams on Tuesday. The highly anticipated Cider Sharewelcome reception will take place Tuesday, February 3 from 5:00 to 7:30 PM. This energetic kickoff event brings together cidermakers from around the world to pour their favorite selections in a fun, interactive, and
2026 Tour Options Include:
Pre-conference tours consistently sell out, and the 2026 lineup highlights the very best of New England’s orchards, craft traditions, history, and hospitality. These immersive experiences provide behind-the-scenes access, regional discovery, and meaningful industry connections.
- Connecticut Cidery Tour
- Rhode Island Cidery Tour
- Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour
- Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts Museum Tour and Demonstration
Tours may be added during registration. Space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.
Register Now
Complete details and registration information for CiderCon® 2026 are available on the American Cider Association website (https://ciderassociation.org/
