31 Jul Round Up: Noteworthy: Annual Western Design Conference moves to Bozeman, Montana

After 30 years in Jackson, Wyoming, the annual Western Design Conference (WDC) is moving locations. Beginning in 2026, the celebrated show and sale will take place in Bozeman, Montana at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse on the Montana State University campus.

Known for featuring quality craftsmanship and showcasing a range of design trends, the conference offers attendees the opportunity to experience and acquire unique, handcrafted pieces. The WDC takes no commission, directly uniting talented artists and designers with the public and trades. Held over four days, the event celebrates Western home and lifestyle design, furniture, fashion, jewelry, and more.

WDC Executive Director Allison Merritt looks forward to welcoming attendees in Bozeman next year with a return of the event’s most popular features and activities. | PHOTO BY WESTERN DESIGN CONFERENCE

With the Jackson Hole venue no longer available, organizers sought a new location that would honor the scale and spirit of this legacy event. According to event organizers, Bozeman offers the best of both worlds: a rich arts culture and the accessibility of a larger city. With a population of over 50,000, Bozeman is easily reachable via the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, making it an ideal destination for both local and regional buyers, as well as visitors from across the country.

“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,” says WDC Executive Director Allison Merritt. “Join us in Bozeman for an unforgettable celebration of the best in Western design.”

Currently, Merritt and her team are connecting and collaborating with national, regional, and local partners, as well as galleries, publications, and sponsors, to enhance the experience for both attendees and exhibitors alike. Attendees can look forward to the opening night couture fashion show — a fan favorite during the WDC preview party — an interior designer showhouse, and over 100 exhibiting artists from 28 states showcasing the richness and diversity of Western design. Additionally, guests will enjoy live podcasts, lectures from industry leaders, and the unveiling of annual WDC award winners.

Follow the WDC on Instagram for the latest news and exhibitor sneak peeks leading up to the event, scheduled for August 6–9, 2026. Early exhibitor applications are now open. For applications and additional information, visit westerndesignconference.com or contact Allison Merritt at allison@westerndesignconference.com or (307) 690-9719.