WEFTEC 2026 | New Orleans, Louisiana
Conference: September 26–30, 2026 | Exhibition: September 28–30, 2026
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center | New Orleans, Louisiana
WEFTEC — the Water Environment Federation's Technical Exhibition and Conference — is the largest annual water quality event in North America, and the 2026 edition is one of the most significant in its 99-year history. Held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, WEFTEC 2026 runs September 26–30 for the full conference program, with the exhibition floor open September 28–30.
More than 23,000 water professionals from over 100 countries converge on New Orleans this fall — utilities, engineers, equipment manufacturers, regulators, researchers, and operators — all under one roof for five days of technical education, product exhibitions, and industry connection.
The Scale of WEFTEC
950+ world-leading exhibitors across the exhibition floor. Hundreds of technical sessions and workshops. An attendee base that spans every segment of the global water sector. WEFTEC is where the most significant water quality technologies get their broadest industry exposure — and where engineers, utility operators, and municipal decision-makers come to evaluate what's next for their systems.
This year's specialty pavilions continue to emphasize the circular water economy, digital and advanced technology solutions, and workforce development — themes that align directly with where municipal utilities are being pushed by regulators and funding agencies.
What's on the Floor in 2026
WEFTEC's exhibition pavilions for 2026 are organized around WEF's core strategic goals. Technology focus areas reflect the industry's current pressures: energy efficiency in treatment operations, nutrient removal compliance, biosolids management under evolving PFAS regulations, smart water systems and remote monitoring, and advanced filtration for water reuse applications.
2026 Opening General Session
The WEFTEC 2026 Opening General Session is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 8:30–9:30 AM. The session will address how the water sector is navigating accelerating change — from climate pressures and aging infrastructure to workforce challenges and evolving sustainability expectations.
Looking Ahead: WEFTEC 2027 — The 100th Annual
WEFTEC 2027 is the 100th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference — a milestone event at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, running September 25–29, 2027 (exhibition September 27–29).
- Conference dates: September 26–30, 2026
- Exhibition dates: September 28–30, 2026
- Location: Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
- Organized by: Water Environment Federation (WEF)