WASHINGTON, July 30, 2025—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is excited to announce that registration for Dairy Forum 2026 opens today.
From January 25–28, 2026, more than 1,200 leaders from across the dairy supply chain will unite in Palm Desert, California, for the industry’s premier annual event. Held at the luxurious JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Dairy Forum 2026 will bring together executives from dairy processors, cooperatives, retailers, and suppliers to strengthen collaboration, spark innovation, and shape a bold, dynamic future for the industry. This year’s theme—UNITED FOR DAIRY—highlights the industry’s shared commitment to progress through innovation, leadership, and cross-sector partnerships.
“Dairy Forum 2026 is where the future of dairy takes shape,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. “This is the place for leaders to come together, build meaningful connections, and explore new strategies to grow, adapt, and lead. When we are united, the dairy industry is more resilient, more innovative, and more prepared to meet the moment.”
Dairy Forum includes main sessions, deep dive sessions, panel discussions, special presentations by conference partners, and numerous opportunities to connect with leaders in the dairy industry. The 2026 event features keynote presentations from:
- Rahm Emanuel, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Mayor of Chicago, White House Chief of Staff, and U.S. Congressman
- Sarah Frey, farmer, best-selling author, speaker, and entrepreneur
- Jason Dorsey, researcher, speaker, and best-selling author
- Brad Nordholm, president and chief executive officer, Farmer Mac
Set against the stunning backdrop of the California desert, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa offers panoramic views, two championship golf courses, world-class tennis and pickleball courts, sparkling pools, and a luxurious day spa. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at signature restaurants offering fresh, local cuisine. With over 234,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor event space, it’s an ideal destination for gatherings in the heart of the desert.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to organizations looking to elevate their brand among the industry’s most influential decision-makers.
To register for Dairy Forum 2026 and explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.dairyforum.com.
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Contact: press@idfa.org
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation’s dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA’s diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.