The 2026 ETH Denver conference opened with a focused, builder-oriented atmosphere despite a broader cryptocurrency market downturn. Founder John Paller stated the event thrives in bear markets, attracting a more serious crowd with a “higher signal.” Attendance is estimated at 8,000-10,000, down from peak years but up from earlier editions, with attendees describing a more intimate and ROI-driven community vibe that also emphasizes art and mental wellness.
The mood inside ETH Denver on opening day was positive despite cold temperatures and a line forming early at the new National Western Center venue. ETH Denver founder John Paller told reporters the event reflects a full year of continuous work since the last gathering.
Paller said “ETH Denver has always benefited from bear markets,” as sponsors concentrate their spending. He acknowledged attendance would be lower than peak years but noted the event has grown substantially from its 2020 size of 2,500 attendees.
“The noise to signal ratio is going to be much better,” Paller stated, emphasizing the presence of serious builders. Russell Castagnaro, founder of Unicorn.eth, observed that attendees are now more focused on return on investment.
First-time attendee Tyler Gentry of NEED-AID came to observe how decentralized communities operate in real time. The conference also featured a Zen Zone focusing on art and mental wellness, which Shana Douglas, co-founder of NFT CLT, said helps set a positive tone.
Her co-founder, Tony Bravado, described this year’s event as feeling “more intimate.” He noted the combination of AI, wellness, and community building created a positive environment for attendees focused on the future of web3.
