HR Conferences to Attend in 2026

The 2026 HR conference calendar is out, and it’s shaping up to be a busy year. Whether you’re looking to attend an industry staple, a specialized event, or a virtual option with no travel requirements, there’s plenty to choose from. 

Before booking your ticket, it’s worth thinking about what you’re hoping to get out of the experience. If you’re looking to connect with as many of your peers as possible, a big event makes sense. But if you’re keen to focus on a single topic, like diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) or ethics, a smaller, more specialized event might be the answer. 

We’ve gathered the HR conferences and events worth adding to your diary.

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How to Choose the Right HR Conference 

Choosing the right HR conference isn’t just about picking an event with the best advertising or the biggest names. The best choice is a conference that directly supports your team’s goals while also matching your budget and time constraints. Here’s how to narrow it down.

Start with what your team actually needs. 

Before you book a ticket for the hottest HR conference of the year, check how each event on your shortlist aligns with your team’s current goals or objectives and key results (OKRs):

• If one of your main OKRs is improving the talent acquisition process, choose a conference with sessions on talent attraction, recruitment, and retention. If you’re looking to create more equitable internal processes, look for one that focuses on DEIB.
• Before booking, a quick alignment check helps ensure the event will yield actionable insights rather than just networking opportunities or interesting but disconnected takeaways. 

Consider the real ROI: cost, time, and connections. 

Conference ROI goes beyond the ticket price. Instead, it’s worth looking at the full investment and what you get back in return: 

• Budget: In addition to the cost of tickets, consider how many people will attend, plus any travel, accommodation, and expense requirements. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of any time spent away from the office. 
• Time: Multi-day events can offer a lot of depth, but single-day and hybrid formats also offer value with less disruption to day-to-day work. 
• Networking: Some events prioritize peer connections, vendor meetings, and roundtable discussions. Others focus on content, rather than connection. If networking is a key goal, decide what type you’re looking for and choose a conference that offers those opportunities. 

Choose a format that fits your needs. 

Not every conference has the same format, so choose one that works for your team and your goals.

• Local events are great for building regional relationships, tapping into local talent market trends, and keeping travel costs to a minimum. 
• Global conferences typically offer access to broader market perspectives, high-profile speakers, and plenty of networking opportunities — but usually come with bigger time and budget commitments. 
• Virtual options are great for flexibility, sharing sessions across a team, or when travel isn’t practical. They’re also a good way to explore hybrid conferences for the first time before committing to in-person attendance. 

The best format is the one that your team will actually benefit from. To make that choice a little easier, here’s our roundup of the HR conferences worth bookmarking for 2026. 

Top HR Conferences in 2026

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Leap HR

When: Throughout 2026

Where: Across the US and Europe

Running year-round across multiple regions, Leap HR’s event series drills down into the priorities faced by HR leaders in specific industries. Events covering life sciences, energy, construction, healthcare, higher education, and more are a chance for industry leaders to connect with other professionals facing the same challenges. 

From Day One

When: Throughout 2026

Where: Across the US

From Day One’s event series hits major US cities across 2026, aiming to unite HR professionals for insightful conversations and actionable ideas. This year’s main theme covers how HR leaders can make technology empowering, and the series features location-specific speakers across a broad range of themes.

DisruptHR

When: Throughout 2026

Where: Multiple locations worldwide, including Sofia, Cincinnati, and Dublin

DisruptHR acts as a worldwide information exchange designed to empower and inform HR professionals. Every event includes 14 speakers who each have five minutes to make an impact. If you can’t make an in-person session, recordings of previous talks are available to watch on demand for each location. 

HR Technologies France 

When: January 28 – 29, 2026

Where: Paris, France 

HR Technologies France is a chance for the French-speaking HR community to get together and tackle local HR issues. This year’s event covers four flagship HR issues, including employee experience and talent management, how AI is transforming HR, how employer brand shapes recruitment, and broader topics around work and society.

CIPD Annual Conference 2026 

When: February 5, February 25, and March 17, 2026

Where: Cardiff, Belfast, and Edinburgh, respectively 

The CIPD’s Annual Conference series includes three events across Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Designed to help HR professionals deliver business value and impact in their respective regions, these conferences feature keynote speakers, masterclasses, panel discussions, and workshops, as well as opportunities to connect with other HR professionals facing similar challenges. 

HR Summit 

When: February 11 and September 17, 2026

Where: Manchester and London, UK, respectively 

Landing in two UK cities in 2026, HR Summit is billed as the ultimate meeting platform for HR professionals and suppliers. One-to-one meetings allow buyers to explore different platforms to find the best match. The HR Summit also offers keynote seminars and discussions, plus the chance to connect with others in the industry. 

Workplace Futures 

When: February 26, 2026

Where: London, UK, and virtual

Back for its 19th installment, Workplace Futures turns its focus to the future. Attendees can hear from experts about the status quo before exploring how to improve the future. There will also be plenty of chances to network with other professionals and service providers. If you can’t make the conference in person, there’s also a virtual option. 

HR Week Europe 

When: March 3 – 4, April 28 – 29, date TBC, and date TBC, 2026

Where: Warsaw, Lisbon, Stockholm, and Barcelona, respectively 

The two-day HR Week Europe conferences offer thoughtfully curated programs across four European cities. Attendees can look forward to insights from world-class speakers on a range of topics, from the future of HR to how humans and AI can work together. There will also be panels, coaching sessions, and interactive workshops. 

HRcoreLAB Summit

When: March 11 – 12, 2026

Where: Barcelona, Spain

The HRcoreLAB Summit returns for its 14th year. This two-day event hosts three simultaneous conferences: Human-AI, HR Agility, and Recruitment. Featuring over 80 world-class speakers, the event is billed as “the most comprehensive, disruptive, and inspiring” HR event of its kind.

UNLEASH America 

When: March 17 – 19, 2026

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada

UNLEASH America bursts into Las Vegas in March, with a packed lineup including breakthrough technology, real-world case studies, deep dives into artificial intelligence, and a range of inspirational keynote speakers, including Amy Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at the Harvard Business School.

Transform

When: March 23 – 25, 2026

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada

At Transform 2026, the theme of the Human + AI Equation explores how HR professionals can forge the next era of work. This year’s bumper schedule features three days of panels, showcases, fireside chats, and interactive workshops. There are also more than 350 speakers, including leaders from Docusign, Toshiba, REI Co-op, Wells Fargo, and AIG. 

HR Vision

When: March 25 – 26, June 3 – 4, and November 17 – 18, 2026

Where: London, Amsterdam, and London, respectively

The HR Vision conferences promise packed schedules for HR professionals. The London events boast three parallel talk tracks covering the future of work, digitization, leadership, learning and development (L&D), and culture and the employee experience. HR Vision Amsterdam will highlight modern leadership, L&D, and future talent acquisition strategies.

HR Tech Europe

When: April 22 – 23, 2026

Where: Amsterdam, the Netherlands 

HR Tech Europe’s 2026 conference will connect HR professionals for two days of valuable insights, opportunities to share knowledge, and moments of meaningful connection. The conference will feature keynote sessions by industry expert Josh Bersin and Byron Clayton, the CHRO of Pandora.

HCI SPARK HR

When: April 28 – 30, 2026

Where: St. Pete Beach, Florida 

Human Capital Institute’s SPARK HR conference includes hands-on workshops, actionable insights, and beachside networking opportunities. Sessions will explore the new rules of retention, next-gen leadership, employee engagement, and what it takes to build a future-ready workforce.

HR Tech MENA Summit 

When: May 13 – 14, 2026

Where: Dubai, UAE

The 12th annual HR Tech MENA Summit focuses on how HR leaders can blend tech and touch to shape tomorrow’s workforce. This two-day conference includes more than 40 speakers, plus the opportunity for attendees to meet with over 40 HR solution providers and consultants. 

Lattiverse

When: June 10, 2026

Where: London, UK, and San Francisco, California

All aboard the rocket ship to Lattiverse! Last year’s edition attracted more than 20,000 registrants for our digital and in-person events, with sessions including navigating AI in HR, strengthening engagement and clarity amid uncertainty, and future-proofing HR without losing the human touch. Plus, our People Success Awards ceremony honored incredible people leaders from around the world. 

SHRM Annual Conference & Expo

When: June 16 – 19, 2026

Where: Orlando, Florida 

The four-day SHRM Annual Conference offers more than 375 sessions across the latest HR innovations, executive-level trends, cutting-edge tech, and much more. As one of the largest HR conferences, it’s also a great place to network with other professionals. But if the high ticket price isn’t within budget, there are plenty of other options to explore in 2026. 

World Class Workforce Transformation 

When: July 7 – 8, 2026

Where: Frankfurt, Germany 

Back for its ninth year, the World Class Workforce Transformation conference promises a jam-packed agenda covering topics on digital transformation in the age of AI. This leading business conference features 20 speakers, plus roundtable discussions and hands-on workshops. It’s also limited to 150 attendees, guaranteeing a personalized experience. 

Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo

When: October 6 – 8, October 26 – 28, and November 16 – 17, 2026

Where: London, Orlando, and Sydney, respectively 

Billed as “the world’s most important gathering of CHROs and HR executives,” the Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo takes place in London, Orlando, and Sydney. Each event will explore leading trends shaping HR today. Expect deep dives on the foundations for performance, the new human-AI workforce, and navigating shifting skills requirements. 

HR Tech

When: October 20 – 22, 2026

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada

Running for over 25 years, HR Tech’s event series heads to Las Vegas in October for three days of programming, including a Women in HR Tech Summit, HR Icons Award Evening, and exclusive first looks at the latest HR tech releases. Attendees also get the chance to interact with top industry thought leaders, plus join think tanks designed to foster collaboration. 

UNLEASH World 

When: October 20 – 22, 2026 

Where: Paris, France 

If you can’t make it to UNLEASH America, UNLEASH World heads to Paris in October for three full days of insightful talks, workshops, and exhibitions from the most innovative HR tech brands around. For over a decade, UNLEASH World has been the place to go for HR, recruitment, and learning professionals. 

HRWest

When: Exact date TBC

Where: TBC, California 

Covering everything you need to know in human resources for 2026, HRWest’s schedule is likely to include multiple content tracks covering leadership, HR tech, talent, HR strategies, and more. This year’s conference also promises global, national, and California HR content. 

Emerging Conferences to Watch Out For 

Not all conferences have thousands of attendees or big-ticket prices. There’s also plenty of smaller, up-and-coming conferences to choose from, whether you’re looking for DEIB-focused programming or events focused on AI, ethics, and the future of work.

NexTech Human Capital India Summit

When: February 18 – 19, 2026

Where: Gurugram, India

Organized by The Economic Times, the NexTech Human Capital India Summit brings together policymakers, HR leaders, strategists, and technologists. With over 80 speakers and four experiential tracks, this summit focuses on AI, ethics, and the future of work. 

National Diversity & Leadership Conference 

When: April 14 – 16, 2026

Where: Virtual 

The theme for the 2026 National Diversity & Leadership Conference is “Empowering Visionary Leaders.” This virtual event combines dynamic workshops, meaningful dialogue, and a range of keynote speakers. 

Diversity & Inclusion Conference 

When: April 30, 2026

Where: London, UK

The one-day, cross-sector Diversity & Inclusion Conference is aimed at DEIB leaders looking to drive transformative change. The program includes talks by over 30 speakers on a range of topics, including navigating global change, empowering leaders, championing neurodiversity, and what’s next for diversity and inclusion. 

d&i Leaders Global Workplace Inclusion Forum

When: May 12 – 13, 2026

Where: London, UK, and virtual

Now in its eighth year, the d&i Leaders Global Workplace Inclusion Forum isn’t a newcomer, but it’s an important global event focused on workplace inclusion and culture. The two-day forum is a strong choice for HR teams looking to move beyond surface-level DEIB initiatives and toward long-term impact. 

Virtual-Only Conferences and Webinars

If your team is spread across the globe, or your budget doesn’t cover the high ticket price of larger events, virtual-only conferences and webinars are a great alternative. They’re also the perfect option for HR teams looking to limit travel for sustainability reasons. 

Lattice ‘Predicting 2026 HR Trends’ 

When: On demand 

Where: Virtual 

In partnership with Ethena, the Lattice Predicting 2026 HR Trends webinar explores the top trends and biggest shifts across HR. The panel of forward-thinking experts will also discuss ways leaders can plan for the year ahead and proactively prepare for change, rather than just reacting to it. 

Lattice AI + Work Virtual Summit 

When: On demand 

Where: Virtual 

The Lattice AI + Work Virtual Summit brings together industry leaders to break down what’s next. Run in partnership with MasterClass at Work, this event covers emerging trends, real-world strategies, and responsible ways to use AI. 

Of course, those aren’t the only webinars Lattice is offering in 2026. Choose from a vast catalog of on-demand content tailored to your team. Enjoy discussions about designing growth, turning insights into impact, or building a talent journey that lasts. 

Discover Lattice’s on-demand webinar and summit series. 

BambooHR’s HR Virtual Summit 

When: On demand 

Where: Virtual 

The HR Virtual Summit by BambooHR is dedicated to connecting HR professionals, and you don’t have to travel anywhere! Access webinars from experts and thought leaders, covering a range of HR topics, including building great onboarding experiences, boosting engagement, and turning HR insights into action. 

Paycor’s HR & Compliance Virtual Summit 

When: On demand 

Where: Virtual 

Paycor’s HR & Compliance Virtual Summit features on-demand recordings covering various HR topics, including workplace culture, leadership, and the kinds of best practices that help drive business results. 

From Day One

When: Throughout 2026

Where: Virtual

In addition to its in-person conferences, From Day One is running virtual HR conferences throughout 2026. Join sessions on a wide range of topics, including L&D, talent acquisition, frontline workers, benefits, and much more. 

HR Leadership and Culture 

When: April 21, 2026

Where: Virtual 

Organized by the Executive Leaders Network, the 90-minute HR Leadership and Culture virtual roundtable explores how HR can build resilient workplace cultures while sustaining high performance and supporting their people through times of uncertainty. Attendance is limited to ensure a valuable conversation, so if you’d like to attend, reserve your spot now. 

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Conferences 

Attending a conference is only part of the work. The real value comes from planning how to make the most of your time and budget. Here’s what that can look like:

• Plan ahead. Review the agenda and highlight any relevant sessions. If there are speakers, meetings, roundtables, or networking events you’d like to attend, book these in advance to avoid missing out. 
• Make the most of post-event content. Many conferences provide post-event content, including session recordings, slide decks, and summaries. Share these with your team to spark discussion and get the most value from each conference. 
• Encourage cross-functional attendance. Sometimes, the best insights happen when you involve other teams. For example, your chief financial officer might benefit from a session on compensation, or legal teams can help interpret compliance updates. 

With a bit of planning, conferences can offer a real return on your investment. And if you’re ready to put that planning into action, here’s where you can meet the Lattice team in 2026. 

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