When the Grateful Dead assembled at Magoo’s Pizza Parlor in May 1965 under the name The Warlocks, few could have predicted that their origins would take them to sold-out stadiums, let alone endure after the passing of core members. And yet, 60 years later, the band remains a symbol of autonomy with vast gravitational pull for seekers of community through songs and experience. In recognition of the group’s significance, the sixth annual Grateful Studies Association Conference will convene from February 25-28, 2026, in Albuquerque, N.M. 

The Grateful Studies Association will meet in conjunction with the Grateful Dead area of the Southwest Popular/American Culture Association (SWPACA) conference as an interdisciplinary event that brings together scholars, artists, and fans in conversation about the music, meaning, and lasting significance of the San Francisco originators. The conference will focus on established voices from the community, while also inviting new perspectives to take part in discussions. Proposals will be accepted through October 31, 2025. 

The Dead coalition unites under their mission: “As an interdisciplinary group, the Association understands the value of a wide-ranging discourse that includes diverse disciplines, fields, and theoretical perspectives. The Association is committed to fostering a respectful, critical, professional conversation governed by the highest standards of scholarly rigor and civility.

“The Association recognizes that interest in the Grateful Dead is widespread and believes that scholarly inquiry can be enriched by an audience that extends beyond the academic world. The Association subscribes to open access principles for its publications and is committed to making its work accessible.”

For submission details and proposal guidelines, visit GDSA’s website at deadstudies.org. 

Updates and the most current conference information will be available on SWPACA’s website.