Top 10 Data Engineering Conferences in 2026

Discover the most popular data engineering conferences and events scheduled in 2025.

Updated Dec 30, 2025 · 7 min read

Staying ahead in data engineering requires continuous learning and networking. One of the best ways to achieve this is by attending data engineering conferences. These exciting conferences bring together industry experts discuss innovations in data architecture, cloud computing, ETL pipelines, real-time processing, and much more. They offer valuable networking opportunities, hands-on workshops, and insights into emerging technologies shaping the future of data engineering.

I've put together a list of must-attend data engineering conferences in 2026. Whether you are new in the industry or have experience, these conferences will help you stay ahead of all the latest trends.

1. Radar: Hybrid Human-AI Teams

Date: April 1, 2026
Location: Online
Cost: Free of charge

RADAR returns in 2026 with a focus on the evolving relationship between human expertise and artificial intelligence. As organizations continue to navigate the integration of AI into their workflows, this coming event will explore how successful teams are building collaborative frameworks where human insight and AI capabilities work in tandem.

The conference will bring together industry leaders and data professionals of all stripes to discuss real strategies. Attendees can expect insights into how forward-thinking organizations are approaching AI adoption, developing the skills needed to work alongside AI systems, and building cultures that embrace this technological shift.

Full agenda and speaker details will be announced soon.

The recordings from previous years are available in case you missed them: RADAR: AI Edition (2025), Radar Skills Edition, Radar Forward Edition, Radar: The Analytics Edition, and Radar: The AI Edition (2024).

Sign Up to Radar: The AI Edition

Join us to explore how top organizations are turning AI into a competitive advantage.

Watch the Recordings

2. Google Cloud Next

Date: April 22–24, 2026
Location: Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, & Online
Cost: Free (Virtual) / USD 299 - USD 2,099

Google Cloud Next is a premier event showcasing Google Cloud’s latest advancements in data engineering, AI/ML, and cloud solutions. Attendees can explore cutting-edge innovations through keynotes, demos, workshops, and technical sessions. The event features expert-led presentations, customer success stories, hands-on learning labs, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. From deep technical insights to strategic discussions, it offers a comprehensive experience for cloud professionals looking to enhance their skills and stay ahead in the industry.

3. MDS Fest 4.0

Date: May 4 - 7, 2026
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free

MDS Fest is a virtual conference celebrating the modern data stack, featuring expert talks on key industry challenges and innovations. Topics include building data-driven organizations, scaling infrastructure efficiently, ensuring data quality, improving data literacy, and advancing data careers. Attendees will gain insights into best practices, real-world use cases, and strategies for optimizing data workflows and driving business value.

4. Data Innovation Summit

Date: May 6 - 8, 2026
Location: Kistamässan, Stockholm, Sweden and virtual
Cost: EUR 249 - EUR 549

The Data Innovation Summit showcases the latest advancements in Data Science, AI, and Machine Learning through real-world case studies, cutting-edge research, and hands-on technology showcases. Attendees will explore applied and generative AI, human-centered design, and strategies for deploying production-ready AI solutions. Key topics include data infrastructure, large-scale data preparation, ethical AI, and governmental investments shaping the industry. With a focus on practical applications and innovation, this event provides insights into building intuitive AI interfaces, optimizing workflows, and leveraging AI-driven decision-making to drive business growth.

5. World Data Summit

Date: May 20-22, 2026
Location: Malta
Cost: EUR 2,050.95

The World Data Summit is a premier data engineering conference focused on building data-driven organizations through advanced data management strategies. Key topics include data governance, warehouse automation, Kappa architecture, and open-source data distribution. Experts will also explore machine learning applications, privacy and ethics in data, and strategies for improving data literacy and leadership. Featuring insights from senior industry leaders, this event offers a deep dive into the future of data engineering and analytics.

6. Snowflake Summit

Date: June 1-4, 2026
Location: San Francisco, California
Cost: USD 1,495 - USD 2,495

This four-day Snowflake Summit is a must-attend event for data professionals. It features inspiring keynotes, expert-led breakout sessions, and a dynamic expo. Attendees will dive into cutting-edge topics like AI, machine learning, data engineering, DevOps, and next-gen data architectures, including lakehouses and data meshes. With a strong focus on innovation, governance, and real-world applications, this event offers unparalleled networking opportunities with industry leaders, peers, and top Snowflake partners, making it the ultimate destination for those looking to stay ahead in the data-driven era.

7. AI and Big Data Expo

Date: Feb 4 - 5, 2026
Location: Olympia, London, UK
Cost: Free (Expo Pass)

The AI and BIG Data Expo will showcase cutting-edge technologies from hundreds of exhibitors, with over 250 speakers sharing industry knowledge and real-life experiences. You will learn topics such as Enterprise AI, Machine Learning, Security, Ethical AI, Deep Learning, Data Ecosystems, and NLP. The event is co-located with other tech events, including those focused on Edge Computing, IoT, Cyber Security & Cloud, Digital Transformation, Data Centers, Intelligent Automation, and Unified Communications.

8. Data + AI Summit by Databricks

Date: June 15 - 18, 2026
Location: Hybrid - San Francisco, California, US, and available online
Cost: USD 1,395 - USD 1,895 in-person. Free for virtual admission

The Data + AI Summit, hosted by Databricks, brings together data engineers, data scientists, analysts, and leaders to explore the latest advancements in data and AI technologies. The summit includes hands-on training, inspiring keynotes, and sessions led by industry pioneers covering topics such as machine learning, data engineering, analytics, and open-source technologies. Attendees can expect panel discussions, networking, and workshops on data engineering, governance, and machine learning. Past conference panels and training sessions are available on YouTube.

9. Big Data LDN (London)

Date: September 23 - 24, 2026
Location: Olympia, London, UK
Cost: Free

The Big Data LDN is the UK’s leading free data, analytics, and AI event, featuring a two-day conference and exhibition. It offers insights from top data leaders and success stories from major brands, helping attendees discover new tools and techniques for data-driven business success. The event provides opportunities to connect with technology vendors, consultants, and expert speakers through a comprehensive conference program.

10. AWS re:Invent

Date: November 30 - December 4, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA
Cost: Varies (Tickets open in 2026, summer)

AWS re:Invent is Amazon’s premier annual cloud computing event, featuring keynote announcements, technical sessions, hands-on training, and certification opportunities. With over 2,000 sessions, interactive workshops, and networking events, it offers insights into the latest AWS services, cloud data engineering, and business transformation through the cloud. Attendees can explore innovation talks, choose specialized learning tracks, and engage in community activities, making it a key event for cloud professionals looking to enhance their skills and stay ahead in the industry.

Summary

Here is a final table to keep you organized. Don't forget to mark your calendar!

Conference	Date	Location	Cost	Summary
Radar: Hybrid Human-AI Teams	April 1, 2026	Online	Free	Focuses on the relationship between human expertise and AI, building collaborative frameworks, and AI adoption strategies.
Google Cloud Next	April 22–24, 2026	Las Vegas, NV & Online	Free (Virtual) / $299–$2,099	Showcases Google Cloud’s latest in data engineering and AI/ML with keynotes, demos, and hands-on labs.
MDS Fest 4.0	May 4–7, 2026	Virtual	Free	Celebrates the modern data stack with talks on infrastructure scaling, data quality, and data careers.
Data Innovation Summit	May 6–8, 2026	Stockholm, Sweden & Virtual	€249–€549	Covers applied/generative AI, data infrastructure, and ethical AI with real-world case studies.
World Data Summit	May 20–22, 2026	Malta	€2,050.95	Focuses on data governance, warehouse automation, and advanced management strategies for data-driven orgs.
Snowflake Summit	June 1–4, 2026	San Francisco, CA	$1,495–$2,495	Deep dive into Snowflake, AI, lakehouses, and data meshes with networking for data professionals.
AI and Big Data Expo	Feb 4–5, 2026	London, UK	Free (Expo Pass)	Features Enterprise AI, ML, Security, and NLP; co-located with IoT and Cyber Security events.
Data + AI Summit (Databricks)	June 15–18, 2026	San Francisco, CA & Online	Free (Virtual) / $1,395–$1,895	Explores open-source technologies, lakehouse architecture, and ML with hands-on training.
Big Data LDN	Sept 23–24, 2026	London, UK	Free	The UK’s leading free data & AI event featuring insights from top leaders and technology vendors.
AWS re:Invent	Nov 30–Dec 4, 2026	Las Vegas, NV	Varies	Amazon’s premier cloud event with 2,000+ sessions on AWS services, cloud engineering, and certification.

Staying ahead in data engineering requires continuous learning and networking, and attending top conferences in 2026 is a great way to achieve that. If you are getting started in data engineering, I highly recommend our Understanding Data Engineering course to understand how the role of a data engineer differentiates from a data scientist and how they facilitate the flow of data through an organization. The Introduction to Data Engineering is also a good intermediate course to help you understand ETL processes through a case study. As data engineering evolves rapidly, investing in your skills and staying informed about emerging trends will keep you competitive in this ever-growing field.