Pennsylvania Convention Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Conference: September 29 – October 1
Exhibits: September 29 – 30
EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS:
For more than 50 years, the NRPA Annual Conference has been where the park and recreation community comes together to learn, connect and grow. Whether you’re exploring the latest products in our interactive exhibit hall, earning CEUs in engaging education sessions, or sharing ideas with peers from across the country, this is your chance to be inspired, build connections and gain tools to make a difference.
Attendees
Topics
Sessions
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Exhibitors
The 2026 NRPA Annual Conference aims to highlight “The Power Of” parks and recreation and the people who make it all possible. Parks and recreation brings us together, strengthens our health and well-being, and builds more resilient, connected communities.
Join us in Philadelphia on September 29 – October 1 to celebrate the transformative power of parks and recreation.
The NRPA Annual Conference is more than just an event — it’s a movement. Here are the top reasons attendees say it’s a MUST!
Access hundreds of inspirational education sessions and earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
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Build meaningful connections with like-minded peers from across the country who share your passion.
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Explore more than 500 booths and exhibits, showcasing the latest products and services for the field.
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Our justification toolkit is designed to assist you in making the case for your attendance and maximizing the benefits of this premier event.
Register for the Virtual Conference! Get on-demand access to speed sessions and select education sessions to earn CEUs — all through the conference app!
Explore stories from first-time attendees and regular participants for insights, tips and a firsthand look at the conference experience.
If there’s one thing Trista Taylor has learned, it’s that some of the most impactful experiences at the NRPA Annual Conference happen in the moments you never plan for.
For those who live and breathe parks and recreation, the NRPA Annual Conference isn’t just another conference — it’s a return to the magic that started it all. Hear how Ashley Faulcon left feeling hopeful about the future.
Lacey Polster, marketing and communications specialist at Grayslake Community Park District (Illinois), shares her first-time conference experience and why it set a high bar.
Brandon Washington shares his first NRPA Annual Conference experience and his decision to give himself five seconds of courage when it felt overwhelming.
To advertise in the award-winning Parks & Recreation magazine (September Conference issue), NRPA onsite materials (including Exhibit Hall Guide) or for other advertising opportunities related to the NRPA Annual Conference, contact the sales team at advertising@nrpa.org or 703.858.4635.
Please direct media-related questions and inquiries to NRPA’s press team at press@nrpa.org.
For more information, contact 800.626.NRPA (6772) or email events@nrpa.org.
Join us in Philadelphia, September 29 – October 1, to celebrate how parks and recreation bring us together, strengthen health and well-being, and build more resilient, connected communities.