February 27–28, 2026 — Homesteaders of Iowa is proud to host the 2026 Homesteaders of Iowa Expo & Midwest Conference, one of the region’s largest gatherings of homesteaders, growers, DIY makers, and self‑reliance enthusiasts. The two‑day event will take place at the Bridge View Center in Ottumwa, Iowa, offering a full weekend of education, hands‑on learning, and community building.
The 2026 conference features an expanded lineup of workshops, presentations, and live demonstrations, designed to equip attendees with practical skills they can take home and use immediately. With sessions covering solar energy, soap making, bread baking, mushroom cultivation, seed starting, hatching, and more, the event brings together experts from across the Midwest to share their knowledge and experience.
A Weekend of Learning, Skill‑Building, and Community
According to event listings, the conference will offer:
• 30+ educational classes on gardening, livestock, food preservation, preparedness, herbalism, and sustainable living
• 24 hands‑on workshops where attendees can learn practical skills step‑by‑step
• A large indoor venue with space for vendors, demonstrations, and networking with fellow homesteaders
Workshops include sessions such as:
• Watt’s Up? Build a Solar Array – John Ewing
• The Soap Opera: Drama‑Free Soap Making – Pearlicia Cloke
• Dough Not Panic: Bread Made Easy – Sarah Severson
• Cracking the Code on Your Hatching Knowledge – William Burgmeier
• Fungi Fundamentals: Growing Mushrooms – David Ford
• Sow What?! Seed Starting – Lynford Miller
These sessions run throughout both days, giving attendees multiple opportunities to participate.
A Mission‑Driven Event for Midwest Families
Homesteaders of Iowa continues its mission to support families seeking greater self‑reliance, sustainability, and practical skills for everyday life. The 2026 conference builds on years of community growth, offering a welcoming environment for beginners, seasoned homesteaders, and everyone in between.
The event is designed to:
• Strengthen local food systems
• Support small agricultural enterprises
• Encourage hands‑on learning
• Build resilient, connected rural communities
Event Details
Dates: February 27–28, 2026
Location: Bridge View Center, 102 Church St, Ottumwa, Iowa
Doors Open: 7:45 AM
Sessions Begin: 8:15 AM both days
General admission is required for all speaker sessions, with optional add‑on workshops available. Vendor‑hall‑only passes will be available at the door for those who wish to shop without attending classes.
