CattleCon 2026 is officially underway in downtown Nashville, bringing nearly 9,000 cattle producers, industry partners and stakeholders together for what remains the largest annual gathering in the U.S. cattle sector. Running February 3–5, the event blends policy, education, leadership development and culture in a way that reflects how the industry is evolving.

This year’s program places a strong emphasis on insight and inspiration. Educational and keynote sessions feature a diverse lineup, including NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., New York Times bestselling author Jon Acuff and award-winning songwriter Jimmy Yeary. Market and weather outlooks from the CattleFax team, led by CEO Randy Blach and atmospheric scientist Matt Makens, are expected to provide critical context for planning beyond 2026.

Several new elements introduced this year point to a deliberate focus on the future workforce and leadership pipeline. “Next Generation Day,” held Thursday, invites collegiate attendees to engage with American National CattleWomen in sessions focused on shaping the future of beef production. The Emerging Leaders event and the new Career Crawl within the NCBA Trade Show further connect students and early-career professionals with potential employers, mentors and industry leaders.

CattleCon 2026 also debuts the Prime Cut Awards, a signature Tuesday evening event recognizing excellence through the National Environmental Stewardship Award and Beef Quality Assurance Awards. The addition reinforces a broader industry narrative that ties operational excellence to environmental responsibility and consumer trust.

Education remains central to the event experience. All registration options now include access to Cattlemen’s College sessions and demonstrations, while the Learning Lounge and Cattle Chats offer informal, on-the-floor opportunities for peer learning. A new Marquee Stage on the trade show floor expands live programming, broadcasts and high-profile conversations.

True to its Nashville setting, CattleCon weaves Music City’s culture throughout the week, including performances by Gracyn Stevens, Paul Bogart and a headlining appearance by Vince Gill during Cowboy’s Night at the Opry at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

Alongside the programming, producers are actively shaping the industry’s direction through NCBA policy discussions and Beef Checkoff meetings, with annual sessions for NCBA, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and the National Cattlemen’s Foundation taking place on site.

For those still considering attending, on-site registration remains open. More information is available at convention.ncba.org.