California Main Street 2026 Conference: Carlsbad

About this event

proudly presents:

November 3-5, 2026Carlsbad Village, California

Commercial district revitalization professionals and community stakeholders from around the state have chosen Carlsbad as the location for this year's annual California Main Street Conference. The dynamic, three-day event is planned for November 3-5 at venues across the village.

Our conference theme The Next Wave of Main Street explores the future of commercial districts in California through innovation, small business support and community growth. Don't miss it!

Three days of content, conversation, and connection

• Passionate Main Street professionals sharing best practices• Information-rich sessions with local and national experts• Sunset networking reception with peer-to-peer connections• Explore Carlsbad Village's seaside downtown with fellow attendees Targeted Main Street Trainings• Orientation for Main Street Executive Directors• Board essentials• Revitalization strategies• Housing and real estate• Tourism and economic development• Streetscape strategies• Special assessment districts• Entrepreneurial ecosystems• Legislative updates

Carlsbad: The Villlage By The Sea

Located in North San Diego County, Carlsbad offers a polished yet relaxed beach-city atmosphere. Known for its ocean-view resorts, vibrant State Street shopping corridor, celebrated dining scene, and thoughtfully curated, art-filled public spaces, it strikes a balance between refinement and coastal charm. Carlsbad is both a world-class tourist destination and, at heart, an easygoing Southern California surf town.

Carlsbad is a city that balances growth with preservation, where extensive open spaces, lagoons, and trail systems are woven into the urban fabric, supported by careful zoning, managed density, and infrastructure. The result is a city that feels both economically vibrant and environmentally grounded, offering a model for sustainable coastal living without sacrificing charm or livability.

Carlsbad Village Association (CVA) is a 501(c)(6) non-profit dedicated to driving the ongoing improvement of Carlsbad Village. Their mission is to enhance the area's business, cultural, and community vitality, positioning it as a premier destination. Originally established in the late 1970's, Carlsbad joined the CAMS network in 2019.

Registration Fees

CAMS Members:

Two (2) complimentary registrations per membership.Additional registrations:$275 before October 1$325 on and after October 1, online and on-site.

Non-Members:$425 before October 1$325 on and after October 1, online and on-site.

Single-Day Passes: $125Student Pass: $75

Conference Agenda At-A-Glance

Things to Look Foward To!

In addition to educational workshops, sessions, panel discussions, and networking, also enjoy:

Dr. Downtown - one-on-one advice from a 20+ year Executive Director

Exhibitor booths from top Main Street partners, companies, and service providers

Plenary session with keynote speakers

Sunset networking reception

Carlsbad Village Scavenger Hunt with fantastic prizes

Artist led "Murals of Carlsbad Village" Walking Tour

State Street Farmers Market

Trolley Tour of "Coastal Five" Main Street Associations

Free Time to experience the beach or get creative with fun "hands-on" art projects

Where to Stay

Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort - Official Conference Hotel3075 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 760.434-7020Walking distance to all conference venues.Special conference rate of $179/night.

Call the Hotel Direct @ 760.434.7020 by 9-19-26Ask for the California Main Street Association BlockNote: there is no online booking available for this block rate.