#United States #Montana #Bozeman #Western Design Conference

Western Design Conference's New Chapter in Bozeman, Montana

The Western Design Conference (WDC), a cherished event that has been a staple in the art and design community for over thirty years, is moving to Bozeman, Montana, beginning August 6-9, 2026. After three decades in Jackson, Wyoming, the conference is ready to embrace its new chapter at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse located on the Montana State University campus.

Exciting Changes for 2026

The announcement of this transition is thrilling not just for the organizers but for artists, designers, and attendees who are passionate about Western home and lifestyle design. This year's exhibit will continue to showcase a wide range of handcrafted items including furniture, fashion, jewelry, and art. As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the WDC is known for its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and diverse design trends.

With Jackson Hole no longer being a viable venue, the WDC team undertook the task of finding a new location that would honor the event's legacy. The choice of Bozeman captures the essence of what the WDC represents: a beautiful setting that fosters creativity and celebrates the Western lifestyle.

Bozeman: An Ideal Destination

Bozeman, with its charming small-town atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop, offers a perfect blend of arts culture and urban amenities, making it highly appealing to both local and out-of-state visitors. The city is home to over 50,000 residents and is conveniently accessible via the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. With numerous hotels, ample parking, and a vibrant community, it provides the ideal atmosphere for an event dedicated to Western design.

Scheduled for four exciting days, attendees can look forward to not only discovering unique handcrafted items but also experiencing engaging events such as a couture designer fashion show during the WDC Preview Party, a showhouse presented by interior designers, and exhibitions featuring over 100 American artists representing 28 states.

Enhancing the Experience

In preparation for the upcoming conference, the WDC is actively collaborating with national and regional partners, galleries, and sponsors to elevate the experience for all involved. They aim to deliver the same vibrant celebration that fans have come to associate with Jackson Hole — a shopping event that ignites inspiration and nurtures both contemporary and cowboy aesthetics.

Key attractions include live podcasts, insightful lectures led by industry leaders, and the announcement of award winners from their annual design competition. Importantly, the WDC continues its philosophy of taking no commission, which directly connects talented creators with both the public and the trade. This unique approach fosters a personal relationship between artists and attendees, enhancing the overall experience of the event.

Save the Date and Stay Tuned

The WDC team invites the public and previous exhibitors, designers, and attendees to mark their calendars for this unmissable event in 2026. They are encouraged to follow the WDC on Instagram for updates and sneak peeks into exhibitor showcases leading up to the event. The call for early exhibitor applications is now open, and the anticipation for this relocation continues to build as the event approaches.

Allison Merritt, the Executive Director of the Western Design Conference, expressed excitement about the new venue, stating, "The WDC team is dedicated to delivering an elevated experience that celebrates the finest in Western-inspired design and craftsmanship at a variety of price points. Join us in Bozeman for an unforgettable celebration of the best in Western design—see you there!"

For more details, applications, and ongoing updates, interested parties can visit westerndesignconference.com as the event date approaches.