California Main Street 2026 Conference: Carlsbad

proudly presents:

November 3-5, 2026
Carlsbad Village, California

 

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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!

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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

 

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 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.

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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: $125
Student Pass: $75

 

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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 Hotel
3075 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 760.434-7020
Walking distance to all conference venues.
Special conference rate of $179/night.

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

The California Main Street 2026 Conference in Carlsbad brings together professionals focused on downtown revitalization and economic development. This year's event will feature workshops and discussions on urban planning, community engagement, and sustainable growth strategies, with a particular emphasis on adapting to future economic trends. Attendees can expect a program spread across multiple venues within Carlsbad Village on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. This setup allows for a dynamic conference experience, suitable for city planners, business owners, and community leaders interested in the future of California's main streets.