Pre-Conference
Knife Skills Morning Workshop
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 10 AM - 12 PM
The Knife Skills Morning Workshop will take place at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. A chef instructor will teach hands-on introductory food preparation skills focusing on using knives safely and effectively. This activity is designed to give you hands-on experience to hone your culinary skills. Space is limited to 40 participants, and this workshop always sells out months in advance.
Plan to arrive at the CIA by 9:30 a.m. for registration. The two-hour workshop will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude by 12 p.m.
Please note that pre-conference events do not include lunch. The Oxbow Market is in close walking distance and will be open to offer a variety of lunch options.
Space is limited; register early to secure your spot.
Time:
9:30 AM Check-in for pre-conference activity
10 AM - 12 PM Knife skills course
Location:
The Culinary Institute of America at Copia, Napa
Cost:
$175 per person | (pre-registration required) | Modify your registration here!
Knife Skills Afternoon Workshop
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
The Knife Skills Afternoon Workshop will take place at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. A chef instructor will teach hands-on introductory food preparation skills focusing on using knives safely and effectively. This pre-conference activity is designed to give you hands-on experience to hone your culinary skills. Space is limited to 40 participants, and this workshop always sells out months in advance.
Plan to arrive at the CIA by 1 p.m. for registration. The two-hour workshop will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude by 3:30 p.m.
Please note that pre-conference events do not include lunch. The Oxbow Market is in close walking distance and will be open to offer a variety of lunch options.
Space is limited; register early to secure your spot.
Time:
1 PM Check-in for pre-conference activity
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM Knife skills course
Location:
The Culinary Institute of America at Copia, Napa
Cost:
$175 per person | (pre-registration required) | Modify your registration here!
An Insider's Tour of Selected Napa Valley Wineries
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 1 PM - 4:30 PM
Time:
12:30 PM Check-in for pre-conference wine tour
12:45 PM Board winery tour buses at Copia for departure at 1 PM
4:30 PM Winery tour buses return to Copia
Location:
The Culinary Institute of America at Copia, Napa, and two Napa Valley wineries
Cost:
$150 per person (includes transportation, winery tours and wine tasting) | (pre-registration required) | Modify your registration here!
An Insider's Tour of Selected Napa Valley Wineries will take place in the vineyards and wineries surrounding The Culinary Institute of America at Copia campus on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Groups will each visit two wineries, with a special opportunity to be greeted and hosted by winemakers and winery owners, and taste wines not ordinarily featured on public tours. Lunch is not included on the winery tour, and attendees should enjoy lunch prior to the tour. We are not able to confirm the wineries and/or wine varietals that will be tasted in advance of the tour.
Plan to arrive at the CIA by 12:30 p.m. for registration, which will take place in the Atrium (1st floor) of the CIA. Winery tour buses will start boarding at 12:45 p.m. Buses will depart at 1 p.m. for behind-the-scenes tours of select Napa Valley wineries. Buses will return to the CIA by 4:30 p.m
Space is limited; register early to secure your spot.
Post-Conference
Recipes from the Plant-Forward Asian Kitchen (Hands-on Class)
Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 10 AM - 1 PM
The culinary traditions of Asian cuisine are as expansive and diverse as the continent itself. Discover the bold flavors and vibrant ingredients of Asia in this exploration of plant-forward cooking that places vegetables at the heart of the plate. With a focus on healthfulness and sustainability, learn how herbs, chiles, and spices can transform fresh, simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes. From Lao-style papaya salad to creamy Thai curry and flavor-packed spring rolls, you’ll explore techniques and regional specialties that showcase the depth of plant-based, fiber-rich cuisine.
Plan to arrive at the Copia Atrium (1st floor) at the CIA by 9:45 a.m. to complete the onsite registration process. After the hands-on production, enjoy a lunch tasting of the dishes created, along with wine.
Space is limited; register early to secure your spot.
Time
9:45 AM Check-in for post-conference activity at Copia's 1st floor Atrium
10 AM - 1 PM Hands-on Class
Location:
The Culinary Institute of America at Copia, Napa, 2nd floor Hestan Kitchen
Cost:
$275 per person (pre-registration required) | Modify your registration here!
Cancellation Policy for Optional Conference Add-Ons:
Up to 30 days in advance of the conference, we will accept a cancellation and refund for pre-conference activities minus a $50 administrative cancellation fee. Unfortunately, there are no refunds or substitutions possible within 30 or fewer days before the start date of the conference. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in this matter.
