The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has announced that Justin Crossley, a prominent figure in the craft beer media landscape, will serve as the Headline Speaker for Homebrew Con 2026. The highly anticipated event, scheduled to take place in Asheville, North Carolina, from June 19-20, 2026, will feature Crossley as its central voice, marking a significant moment for the organization and the homebrewing community. This appointment underscores the AHA’s commitment to bringing influential voices and engaging content to its flagship annual gathering.
Crossley, widely recognized for his extensive work in broadcasting and his deep roots as a homebrewer, brings a wealth of experience to the role. As the founder of The Brewing Network and a seasoned broadcaster with two decades of experience, he has cultivated a substantial global following. His contributions to beer media have been instrumental in shaping conversations and fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts worldwide. For over a decade, Crossley has been a consistent presence at major beer events, including the National Homebrewers Conference, where he has often served as a host or commentator, making him a familiar and respected personality within the homebrewing sphere.
The selection of Crossley as the Headline Speaker for Homebrew Con 2026 is more than a traditional keynote address; it signifies his position as the event’s primary draw. His role will involve delivering a significant address that is expected to inspire and inform attendees, regardless of their brewing experience level. The AHA anticipates that Crossley’s insights, honed through years of broadcasting and active participation in the homebrewing community, will provide a unique and valuable perspective for the estimated 1,000 AHA members expected to attend.
Homebrew Con 2026 is set to be a pivotal event for the American Homebrewers Association, not only due to its distinguished speaker but also because it represents the association’s first annual gathering as an independent entity. Following a period of organizational transition, the 2026 conference will be entirely driven by volunteer member leaders and designed to celebrate the homebrewing community. This shift signifies a renewed focus on member empowerment and grassroots engagement within the AHA.
The conference will be held in Asheville, North Carolina, a city increasingly recognized as a hub for craft beer and culinary innovation. The choice of Asheville as the venue provides an ideal backdrop for the event, offering attendees ample opportunities to explore the local brewing scene. The official proceedings will span two days, June 19-20, 2026, and will be hosted at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in downtown Asheville.
Leading up to the main conference, the week will also host the final round of judging for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition (NHC). Scheduled for June 17-18, 2026, this prestigious competition brings together the world’s most accomplished homebrewers and their meticulously crafted beers, meads, and ciders. The culmination of the NHC, including the Awards Ceremony and the highly anticipated Knock-Out Party, will take place on June 20 at The Renaissance, providing a celebratory conclusion to a week of intense competition and camaraderie.
The AHA’s 46th Homebrew Con promises a comprehensive program designed to cater to the diverse interests of homebrewers. While Crossley’s headline talk is a major highlight, the full agenda includes a broad array of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities. These sessions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, from advanced brewing techniques and ingredient sourcing to the intricacies of fermentation science and the business of craft beverages. The event aims to provide tangible takeaways for attendees, equipping them with new knowledge and practical skills to enhance their brewing endeavors.
The National Homebrew Competition, established in 1979, has grown to become the largest and most esteemed homebrew competition globally. Its final judging phase at Homebrew Con draws significant attention from both competitors and enthusiasts, showcasing the pinnacle of homebrewed excellence. The NHC Awards Ceremony serves as a platform to recognize outstanding achievements and inspire future brewing innovation.
The AHA itself boasts a rich history, founded in 1978 with the mission to advance the common interests of homebrewers. The association functions as a central hub for thousands of members, providing a wealth of resources, including its flagship publication, Zymurgy magazine, validated recipes, and access to exclusive member deals. The AHA’s vision is ambitious: to see a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community, fostering a widespread appreciation for the craft.
Homebrew Con is the AHA’s premier annual event, bringing together its membership to celebrate the art, science, and community of brewing and fermentation. It is recognized as the world’s largest and longest-running gathering of homebrewers, attracting participants from across the globe. Registration for Homebrew Con 2026 is now open on HomebrewCon.org, and organizers anticipate a sell-out event, with hotel accommodations in Asheville also booking rapidly.
The significance of Homebrew Con 2026 extends beyond its programming and speakers. As the AHA navigates its future as an independent association, this conference will serve as a testament to its resilience and its deep connection with its member base. The emphasis on volunteer member leaders highlights a democratic and community-driven approach to governance and event planning, reinforcing the AHA’s commitment to serving the needs and aspirations of homebrewers.
The evolution of homebrewing in recent decades has been remarkable. What began as a niche hobby has blossomed into a significant cultural and economic force, influencing the broader craft beverage industry. Events like Homebrew Con play a crucial role in this ecosystem, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, skill development, and the celebration of innovation. The increasing sophistication of homebrewing techniques and the growing diversity of styles being produced by homebrewers reflect the dynamic nature of the hobby.
The National Homebrewers Competition, in particular, has been a catalyst for improvement and recognition within the homebrewing community. By providing a standardized and rigorous judging process, the NHC encourages brewers to refine their techniques and strive for excellence. The results of the NHC often influence commercial brewing trends, with many professional brewers having honed their skills through competitive homebrewing.
Justin Crossley’s involvement as Headline Speaker is strategically aligned with the AHA’s goals. His extensive experience in media outreach and his ability to connect with a broad audience will be invaluable in amplifying the message and impact of Homebrew Con. His platform, The Brewing Network, has been a vital resource for homebrewers, offering podcasts, forums, and a wealth of information that has supported countless individuals on their brewing journeys.
The choice of Asheville, North Carolina, as the host city is also noteworthy. North Carolina has a robust craft beer scene, with Asheville being a prominent destination for beer enthusiasts. This location offers attendees the opportunity to experience a vibrant brewing culture firsthand, potentially leading to further inspiration and networking opportunities within the broader craft beverage industry. The synergy between the Homebrew Con and the local brewing landscape is likely to enhance the overall attendee experience.
Looking ahead, the AHA’s commitment to independence suggests a path forward focused on strengthening its core offerings and expanding its reach. The success of Homebrew Con 2026 will be a key indicator of the association’s trajectory and its ability to engage and serve its growing membership in new and innovative ways. The emphasis on community and volunteer leadership signals a desire to foster a more inclusive and participatory environment for all homebrewers.
The economic impact of homebrewing, while often understated, is significant. The purchase of ingredients, equipment, and educational materials by homebrewers supports a specialized industry. Furthermore, many professional brewers and brewery owners began their careers as homebrewers, demonstrating the hobby’s role as a pipeline for talent and innovation within the craft beverage sector. Homebrew Con serves as a focal point for this economic activity and for the professional development of individuals within the industry.
The AHA’s vision of "a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community" speaks to a broader cultural aspiration: the democratization of brewing and the fostering of local, community-based craft. This vision is supported by the association’s ongoing efforts to provide resources, education, and advocacy for homebrewers. Homebrew Con is a tangible manifestation of this vision, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds united by a shared passion for brewing.
As the countdown to Homebrew Con 2026 begins, the excitement surrounding Justin Crossley’s role as Headline Speaker, coupled with the AHA’s renewed focus on independence and community engagement, sets the stage for an exceptional event. The conference promises to be a landmark occasion, celebrating the achievements of the past while forging a path forward for the future of homebrewing. Attendees can anticipate an immersive experience filled with learning, camaraderie, and the shared pursuit of brewing perfection. The AHA encourages all interested homebrewers to register early to secure their place at what is expected to be a highly sought-after event.
The American Homebrewers Association (AHA)
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association (AHA) operates under a member-directed governance model, providing unparalleled value through its offerings. These include the esteemed Zymurgy® Magazine, a curated collection of National Homebrew Competition (NHC) validated recipes, comprehensive resources available on HomebrewersAssociation.org, and exclusive benefits such as AHA Member Deals and Annual Recognition Awards. The association serves as a vital community hub for tens of thousands of members, fostering connections and celebrating the achievements of homebrewers worldwide. Its aspirational vision is to see a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community. Interested individuals are invited to join the AHA and become part of this vibrant movement.
Homebrew Con
Homebrew Con is the AHA’s premier annual conference, uniting its members to celebrate both the artistic and scientific dimensions of brewing and fermentation. It holds the distinction of being the world’s largest and longest-running gathering of homebrewers. Further information and registration details can be found at HomebrewCon.org.
National Homebrew Competition (NHC)
The National Homebrew Competition (NHC) is dedicated to recognizing the most outstanding, world-class homebrewed beer, mead, and cider. Established in 1979, it continues to be the largest homebrew competition globally, setting the standard for excellence in the field. More details about the NHC can be found at https://homebrewersassociation.org/national-homebrew-competition/.
