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Data science conferences provide a great venue to learn from industry leaders who successfully implement data solutions in their daily work. These conferences can cover a broad range of data topics, including how to grow your career in the industry, best practices and tips for implementing data and analytics products, industry use cases on how to build a data culture and more. Most conferences also offer networking opportunities with industry leaders, recruiters, and other data practitioners in similar positions to you.
This article focuses on some of the biggest and most useful conferences to attend in 2026. They include a mix of locations and virtual availability as well as a broad range of data topics that are useful for all data people, regardless of skill level, experience, and position in their organization. Some of these conferences focus more on hands-on workshops, while others focus more on growing scalable business solutions and strategic decisions to consider while building a data-focused organization.
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).
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2. Big Data & AI World
- Dates: March 4-5, 2026
- Location: Excel London
- Cost: Free of charge
The Big Data & AI World conference, part of Tech Show London, is scheduled for 4-5 March 2026 at ExceL London. It's an event for exploring the latest advancements in big data and artificial intelligence, offering attendees the chance to delve into the potential of their data, network with industry pioneers, witness innovative solutions, and stay ahead of trends and developments. A single free ticket provides access to a suite of related events, including Cloud Expo Europe and Cloud & Cyber Security Expo, making it a gathering for business leaders and technologists aiming to shape their digital future.
3. Gartner Data & Analytics Summit
- Dates: March 9-11, 2026
- Location: Orlando, FL, US
- Format: onsite and virtual
- Cost: $4,925 (early bird from $4,475)
The Gartner Data & Analytics Summit is a unique gathering for chief data analytics officers and data and analytics leaders aspiring to transform their organizations through the power of data, analytics, and AI.
The conference is set up with several tracks to meet each attendee's individual goals and interests. These tracks cover a wide range of topics, including Leadership, Data Management, Analytics, Business Strategy, Machine Learning, and Governance and Privacy.
4. ODSC
- Dates: April 28-30, 2026
- Location: Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Boston, MA, US, and available virtually.
- Cost: $559 - $1670
Open Data Science Conference is a collection of conferences hosted across the US and Europe. The currently featured ODSC East will be held in early April and offers a hybrid attendance format. The event includes training, networking opportunities, as well as expos and demos. Many tracks range from Machine Learning, NLP, MLOps, and Data Visualization. There is a track for most people in data to get personalized value out of the event. There will be over 250 speakers, 300 hours of content, 1700 companies, and thousands of attendees.
5. Data Science Next Conference Europe
- Dates: May 7-8, 2026
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cost: $750 (In-person in Amsterdam)
The Data Science Next Conference is an international AI & data conference aimed at both data science professionals and AI enthusiasts. It covers a range of topics and technologies, live in Belgrade, with topics including NLP, Computer Vision, Open Data, and more.
6. World Data Summit
- Dates: May 20-22, 2026
- Location: Corinthia St George's Bay, Malta
- Format: onsite and virtual
- Cost: €2,050.95
The World Data Summit is a three-day event that focuses on topics in data governance, data literacy and leadership, privacy and ethics, applications of machine learning, and open-source data technologies.
Attendees range from every seniority level, from analysts to directors and vice presidents. Featured speakers are from strong data-focused organizations like AT&T, Wayfair, Google, and Nike.
The summit can be followed virtually for a reduced registration rate. The virtual pass includes access to the event platform where you can watch main agenda presentations, check exhibition areas, and connect and chat with participants.
7. The Data Science Conference
- Dates: May 28-29, 2026
- Location: Chicago, IL, US
- Cost: $1,500
The Data Science Conference is a sponsor-free, vendor-free, and recruiter-free data science conference. The goal is to provide an opportunity for attendees to learn without needing to worry about being sold or prospected. This allows for more genuine networking opportunities and more informative, sales-free panels and discussions. For networking, you can leverage a virtual business card, which helps you share your contact information and your data science work in a hassle-free way. Speakers cover a wide range of topics, including Speech Models, Computer Vision, Privacy and governance, and other data topics and case studies.
8. Data + AI Summit
- Dates: June 15-18, 2026
- Location: San Francisco, CA, US
- Format: Onsite
- Cost: TBC (Historically, early-bird passes start around $1,500)
The Databricks Data + AI Summit 2026 is the leading global event for the data, analytics, and AI community focused on the Lakehouse Architecture and the Databricks Platform. It brings together data engineers, data scientists, and architects to discuss Apache Spark, Delta Lake, MLOps, and the convergence of data warehousing and data lakes. Attendees gain practical knowledge and advanced strategies required to build and deploy high-value, AI-powered solutions at scale using the latest open-source and proprietary tools.
9. World Conference on Data Science & Statistics
- Dates: June 16-17, 2026
- Location: London, England
- Cost: $599-$899, depending on timing and job or student status
Data Science Week, also called World Conference on Data Science & Statistics, is a 2-day event in the UK that emphasizes academic research and industry-focused discussions around machine learning, math, and statistics topics. The theme for this year’s event is on Data Science in the age of ChatGPT and AI.
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FAQs
What are the benefits of attending a data conference in person versus virtually?
Attending a data conference in person offers several benefits, including the opportunity to network face-to-face with industry leaders, peers, and potential employers. In-person attendees often have access to exclusive workshops, hands-on sessions, and more interactive experiences that can enhance learning. Additionally, the immersive environment can foster deeper engagement with the content and speakers. On the other hand, virtual attendance provides flexibility, cost savings, and the ability to access recorded sessions at your own pace, making it a convenient option for those who cannot travel.
How can I choose the right data conference to attend?
Choosing the right data conference depends on your professional goals, interests, and budget. Start by identifying the topics that are most relevant to your work or areas where you want to expand your knowledge. Look at the agenda, speaker lineup, and workshop offerings to ensure the content aligns with your needs. Also, consider the location, cost, and networking opportunities. If possible, seek recommendations from colleagues or peers who have attended similar conferences. Lastly, check if the conference offers recordings or other resources that can be accessed later, which can add value to your experience.
What should I do to prepare for attending a data conference?
To prepare for attending a data conference, start by reviewing the agenda and selecting the sessions, workshops, and keynotes you want to attend. It’s helpful to research the speakers and topics in advance to better understand the content and engage more effectively. If networking is a priority, prepare your elevator pitch and business cards, and identify key individuals or companies you’d like to connect with. Additionally, plan your schedule to include time for breaks and informal networking opportunities. For virtual conferences, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet environment for attending sessions.
What are some common themes or topics covered in data conferences?
Data conferences typically cover a wide range of themes and topics, including machine learning, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, data governance, and data ethics. Other common areas of focus include data visualization, data engineering, natural language processing (NLP), and emerging trends like MLOps and data democratization. Conferences may also explore industry-specific applications of data science, such as healthcare, finance, and retail. In addition, there is often a focus on the practical application of data technologies, case studies, and the future of data science.
How can attending a data conference advance my career?
Attending a data conference can significantly advance your career by providing opportunities to learn from industry experts, stay updated on the latest trends and technologies, and gain new skills through workshops and training sessions. Networking at conferences can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship connections. Additionally, presenting your work or participating in discussions can enhance your professional visibility and credibility. Conferences also offer a platform to discover new tools and solutions that can be applied to your work, making you more effective and innovative in your role.
Author
Data Science writer | Senior Technical Marketing Analyst at Wayfair | MSE in Data Science at University of Pennsylvania
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