Search is in the middle of its biggest shift in decades. Traditional SEO fundamentals still matter, but they’re no longer enough. In 2026, teams are also optimizing for AI answers, generative engines, and zero-click experiences, where visibility doesn’t always mean a website visit. That’s why conversations around AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) are moving from the fringe to the core of modern growth strategy.

The best events in this space aren’t just about rankings and keywords anymore. They’re about understanding how discovery works across search engines, AI assistants, and generative platforms, and how to measure impact when the click isn’t guaranteed.

Here are the SEO, AEO, and GEO-focused conferences worth planning for in 2026.

Demand & Expand (Formerly PLGTM)‍

San Francisco, CA | May 19–20, 2026

While Demand & Expand isn’t a traditional “SEO conference,” it earns a spot on this list because search visibility, attribution, and AI-driven discovery are discussed as part of a broader growth system. The event is designed around uniting the full funnel, and SEO increasingly plays a role across demand, lifecycle, and expansion, not just top-of-funnel traffic.

In 2026, topics like AEO/GEO, attribution in a zero-click world, and AI-first demand strategies show up alongside lifecycle and GTM discussions. If your SEO efforts are tightly connected to pipeline, revenue, or expansion metrics, Demand & Expand offers a more realistic view of how search fits into modern GTM execution.

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) Conference ‍

San Francisco, CA | December 2026

The GEO Conference is one of the few events built specifically around optimizing for generative engines and AI-powered answers. As large language models, AI search results, and assistant-driven discovery reshape how buyers find information, this conference focuses on what optimization looks like when content is surfaced, summarized, or cited—without a traditional search result click.

For SEO leaders, content strategists, and growth marketers, this is a future-facing event that goes beyond speculation. Expect discussions around how generative engines evaluate content, how brands earn visibility in AI-generated answers, and how to adapt measurement frameworks as discovery becomes more conversational and less transactional.

SMX Advanced 2026‍

Boston, MA | June 3–5, 2026

SMX Advanced is a long-standing, practitioner-focused conference for experienced SEO and search marketing professionals. It’s known for going deep—less introductory content, more technical SEO, advanced strategies, and hands-on problem solving.

In the context of 2026, SMX Advanced is especially valuable for teams balancing innovation with fundamentals. You’ll find advanced conversations around technical SEO, search performance analysis, and adapting to search engine changes, which remain critical even as AI and generative experiences reshape the SERP. If your role involves owning search performance at scale, this is one of the most technically rigorous events on the calendar.

SEO Week ‍

New York City, NY | April 27–30, 2026

SEO Week is designed as an immersive, multi-day experience for SEO professionals who want to go beyond surface-level tactics. It brings together practitioners, strategists, and leaders for deeper conversations around search strategy, content, technical foundations, and the evolving role of SEO inside organizations.

What makes SEO Week stand out is its focus on learning depth and community. In a year where SEO teams are being asked to adapt quickly to AI-driven change, this kind of environment is valuable for stepping back, comparing approaches, and refining long-term strategy—not just reacting to algorithm updates.

MozCon 2026 Roadshow ‍

New York City, NY | July 14, 2026

MozCon has long been one of the most recognizable names in SEO, and the MozCon Roadshow brings that content to a more focused, city-based format. The New York stop on July 14, 2026 offers a condensed experience centered on SEO, content strategy, and search-driven growth.

For teams who want practical insights without committing to a multi-day conference, the roadshow format is appealing. It’s particularly useful for content and SEO teams looking to stay current on best practices while also understanding how search fits into broader digital marketing efforts.

Where Search Is Headed Next