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Join us for some exciting events to network with your peers at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference.
Monday, September 15 | 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Rosen Plaza Hotel
Join your Local Host Committee Monday night in vibrant Orlando, Florida, at the Rosen Plaza Hotel from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for an unforgettable evening that sets the stage for the 2025 NRPA Conference. The Welcome to Orlando Event offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, innovators and peers in an exclusive, energizing atmosphere.
Begin the evening in Ballroom C with music, dancing, food and fun, then enjoy the tropical atmosphere outside at the Upper Pool Deck, where we will have even more entertainment and interactive experiences designed to inspire and delight. Enjoy a curated selection of delectable cuisine and complimentary beverages guaranteed to satisfy every taste.
Come together to spark meaningful connections, share ideas and celebrate the start of an exciting journey. This is more than just an event — it’s the gateway to a week of inspiration and collaboration!
Tuesday, September 16 | 7 – 11 p.m.
Get ready for one of the biggest parties NRPA has ever thrown, because we’ve reserved the entire Universal Islands of Adventure theme park just for you! Featuring themed lands and cutting-edge rides, Islands of Adventure promises excitement around every bend.
This is where it goes down. And up. And down again. Superheroes. Magical creatures. A school of witchcraft and wizardry. Even dinosaurs (turns out, not so extinct). Take a ride, multiple rides. Some will drench you. Some will just mess up your hair. Some will make your head spin (figuratively speaking). All of them will say: Every island is a new reality. It’s a universe of action and excitement — and it’s all yours.
Wednesday, September 17 | 6 – 7 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Orlando (Headquarter Hotel), Windermere Ballroom
Join us as we recognize and celebrate the most inspirational people and programs by presenting 2025 Hall of Fame Induction, Innovation Awards and Spotlight Awards. The newly CAPRA-accredited and re-accredited park and recreation agencies, certified professionals, Young Professional Fellows, and Diversity and Student Scholarship recipients also will be recognized. There will be a cash bar reception immediately after the ceremony so you can celebrate and network with your peers.
Wednesday, September 17 | 7 – 8 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Orlando (Headquarter Hotel), Windermere Ballroom
Thursday, September 18 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Orlando (Headquarter Hotel), Windermere Ballroom
The Ethnic Minority Society Awards Luncheon is an annual luncheon that recognizes the different experiences of the recreation profession and provides an opportunity to network and learn more about the organization.
To sign up for the ticketed events, please make your selection during the conference registration process. If you already have registered for the conference, you can add the event to your current order by logging in to the registration site and modifying your registration.
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
22377 Belmont Ridge Road
Ashburn, VA 20148-4501
PH: 800.626.NRPA (6772)
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