How to Join the "Woodstock for Capitalists": A Comprehensive Guide to Attending the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting
Are you ready to be part of one of the most iconic events in the world of finance? The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting, famously dubbed the "Woodstock for Capitalists" by Warren Buffett, is more than just a corporate meeting. It's a pilgrimage for value investors, a showcase of Berkshire's diverse businesses, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear directly from the Oracle of Omaha himself and his successor, Greg Abel. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your trip to Omaha, Nebraska, a roaring success. Let's get started!
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| How To Join Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting |
Step 1: Become a Shareholder (Yes, You Really Should!)
First things first, you need to be a Berkshire Hathaway shareholder. Don't worry, you don't need to be a millionaire to buy a Class A share (BRK.A), which trades for hundreds of thousands of dollars. You can purchase just one affordable Class B share (BRK.B). As of mid-2025, a single BRK.B share trades for around $500.
Are you thinking, "But I don't own any shares!"? It's easier than you think. You can buy them through a brokerage account like any other stock. Once you own even a single share, you are officially a shareholder and eligible to attend. While it is technically possible to obtain a ticket without being a shareholder (more on that later), being a shareholder is the most reliable and ethically sound way to secure your spot.
Step 2: Plan Your Trip to Omaha, Nebraska
The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting is held every year on the first Saturday in May in Omaha, Nebraska. The 2026 meeting is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026. This event brings tens of thousands of people to a city with a limited number of hotel rooms, so planning is absolutely critical.
Sub-heading: Book Your Flight and Accommodation Early
This cannot be stressed enough. As soon as the dates are announced, flights to Omaha's Eppley Airfield (OMA) and hotel rooms book up incredibly fast. Many regular attendees book their accommodation for the following year before they even leave Omaha.
Flights: Book your flights to Omaha several months in advance. Airfares can skyrocket closer to the date. You can also consider flying into a nearby city like Kansas City or Lincoln and driving, but remember that rental cars will also be in high demand.
Hotels: Expect to pay significantly inflated rates for a hotel room during the AGM weekend. A standard room that would normally cost $100 might be $300 or more. Look for hotels that are close to the CHI Health Center Omaha, as this is the main venue for all events. Book through major travel sites like Booking.com, but be aware of the risk of cancellations from hosts who realize they can charge more later.
Alternative Accommodation: Consider booking a holiday home or an Airbnb, but be wary of hosts who might cancel your booking to relist it at a higher price. Read reviews carefully.
Step 3: Secure Your Credential (Your Golden Ticket!)
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This is your official entry pass to the meeting and all shareholder-only events. The credential is a physical badge that you must wear at all times.
Sub-heading: Request Your Credential as a Shareholder
As a shareholder, you have two primary ways to get your credentials:
Mail-in Request: When the proxy documents are released, typically in March, you'll find an "Annual Meeting Credential Request Form." Fill out this form legibly and mail it to Berkshire Hathaway. You can request up to four badges for yourself and your family or friends. This is the most recommended and stress-free method, as your badges will be shipped to you in advance.
Will-Call Pick-up: If you didn't receive your badges by mail or forgot them, you can pick them up at the "Will Call" area in the lobby of the CHI Health Center Omaha. You'll need to show a valid photo ID (like your passport or driver's license) and a proof of share ownership. A screenshot of your brokerage account statement showing you own BRK.A or BRK.B shares is sufficient.
Sub-heading: What if you aren't a Shareholder?
While it's not the official route, it's a well-known fact that you can sometimes find credentials for sale on secondary markets like eBay. A single badge might sell for between $10 and $25. This is an option for non-shareholders who are eager to attend.
Step 4: Immerse Yourself in the Berkshire Weekend
The annual meeting is a multi-day event, with activities starting on Friday and running through Sunday.
Sub-heading: Friday - The "Shareholder Shopping Day" and More
Will Call & Credential Pick-up (11 am - 5 pm): If you're picking up your badges in person, head to the CHI Health Center.
Shareholder Shopping Day (Noon - 5 pm): This is a must-do! After getting your badge, enter the massive Exhibit Hall at the CHI Health Center. It's a trade show featuring dozens of Berkshire's subsidiary companies, from See's Candies and Fruit of the Loom to NetJets and GEICO. You can buy products, see exhibits, and get discounted shareholder pricing.
Borsheims Shareholder-only Shopping Night: Borsheims, a Berkshire-owned jewelry store, hosts a special shareholder-only shopping event. Enjoy a cocktail and browse unique jewelry and gifts.
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Sub-heading: Saturday - The Main Event!
This is the big day.
Early Morning Line-Up (Starting as early as 2 am): If you want a prime seat in the main arena, you'll need to join the line very early. Doors open at 7 am, and seats fill up fast. The Q&A is broadcast on screens in overflow rooms for those who don't get a seat in the main arena.
Q&A Session with Warren Buffett & Greg Abel (8 am - 2 pm): This is the heart of the meeting. You'll hear from Warren Buffett and his successor, Greg Abel, as they answer questions from shareholders and journalists. The questions can be about anything from the economy and company performance to life advice.
Annual Shareholders Meeting (2 pm - 3 pm): The official business of the company takes place, including voting on board members and proposals.
Exhibit Booths & NFM Berkshire Picnic: The Exhibit Hall remains open, and the Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM), another Berkshire subsidiary, hosts a popular picnic with food and entertainment.
Sub-heading: Sunday - The Fun Run and More Shopping
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"Invest in Yourself" 5K: A fun run and walk presented by Brooks, a Berkshire company.
More Shopping: Borsheims is open for another shareholder-only shopping day.
Explore Omaha: Take some time to explore other attractions in the city.
Step 5: Embrace the "Berkshire Spirit"
The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting is a unique experience. Here are a few tips to make the most of it:
Dress comfortably: You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing in line. Casual attire is the norm.
Bring a portable charger: You'll be using your phone a lot for photos, directions, and staying connected.
Be prepared for crowds: Tens of thousands of people attend. Be patient, polite, and enjoy the energy.
Network with other investors: You'll be surrounded by like-minded people. This is an incredible opportunity to connect and share ideas.
Related FAQ
How to get a ticket for the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting?
You can get a free ticket (credential) by being a shareholder of either BRK.A or BRK.B stock and requesting a badge via the "Annual Meeting Credential Request Form" or by picking it up at the "Will Call" area with proof of share ownership. Non-shareholders can sometimes purchase a credential from shareholders on secondary markets like eBay.
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How to prove you are a Berkshire Hathaway shareholder?
You can prove ownership by showing a physical or digital copy of your brokerage account statement, a screenshot of your holdings from your broker's app, or any other official document that shows you own BRK.A or BRK.B shares.
How to book a hotel in Omaha for the annual meeting?
Book your hotel at least six months in advance, if not a year. Many attendees book their rooms for the next meeting before they leave Omaha. Expect higher-than-average prices. Focus on hotels near the CHI Health Center to be close to the action.
How to ask a question at the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting?
Shareholders are selected randomly at designated microphone locations in the arena. You state your name and hometown and then ask your question. CNBC also curates questions submitted by non-attending shareholders.
How to get around Omaha during the event?
You can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, but be prepared for surge pricing. Limited shuttle services are also provided. Public buses are a cheap option, and walking is a great way to explore the downtown area.
How to get discounts at Berkshire Hathaway subsidiaries?
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Your meeting credential acts as a discount pass. You can get special shareholder pricing on items at the Exhibit Hall, Nebraska Furniture Mart, Borsheims, and other Berkshire-owned stores in Omaha.
How to watch the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting if you can't attend?
CNBC typically live-streams the Q&A session on its website and television channel. This is the best way to experience the event from the comfort of your home.
How to prepare for the long day at the meeting?
Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, bring a fully charged phone, and stay hydrated. Lines can form hours before the doors open, so be prepared for a marathon day.
How to find out the dates for the next Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting?
The meeting is almost always held on the first Saturday in May. The official dates are released in the proxy statement, which is available on the Berkshire Hathaway website, typically in March. The 2026 meeting is on May 2nd.
How to connect with other attendees?
Stay at a hotel near the convention center, attend the shareholder shopping events and picnics, and be open to striking up conversations with people in line or at the venues. The shared interest in Berkshire and value investing creates a natural bond.
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