Tours and Special Events
AgendaSunday, October 25
8:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
26th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic: The Queen City Classic
Now in its 26th year, the Funeral Service Foundation’s golf outing has raised more than $2.15 million in support of its mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.
Join funeral directors and allied professionals of all skill levels for the Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic! Held in conjunction with the annual NFDA International Convention & Expo, the shotgun scramble-style tournament is one of the best networking opportunities in the profession and convention week’s most anticipated tee time.
This year, we’re heading to Olde Sycamore Golf Club, an award-winning course tucked into a majestic forest of Carolina tall pines just outside the Queen City. Designed by Carolina Hall of Fame architect Tom Jackson, and recognized as both the “Best New Course” and “Best Eastside Course” in Charlotte, Olde Sycamore offers beautifully maintained fairways and some of the best greens in the region.
Sponsorship and individual golfer registration are both available. Visit FuneralServiceFoundation.org/golf to register and learn about sponsorship opportunities.
Olde Sycamore Golf Club, Charlotte, North Carolina
Join funeral directors and allied professionals of all skill levels for the Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic! Held in conjunction with the annual NFDA International Convention & Expo, the shotgun scramble-style tournament is one of the best networking opportunities in the profession and convention week’s most anticipated tee time.
This year, we’re heading to Olde Sycamore Golf Club, an award-winning course tucked into a majestic forest of Carolina tall pines just outside the Queen City. Designed by Carolina Hall of Fame architect Tom Jackson, and recognized as both the “Best New Course” and “Best Eastside Course” in Charlotte, Olde Sycamore offers beautifully maintained fairways and some of the best greens in the region.
Sponsorship and individual golfer registration are both available. Visit FuneralServiceFoundation.org/golf to register and learn about sponsorship opportunities.
Olde Sycamore Golf Club, Charlotte, North Carolina
The Funeral Service Foundation's work in scholarships, grants and free resources for the profession is made possible through the support of donors like you. Visit the foundation's booth at NFDA Central to learn more and get involved.
Separate registration required
3 – 5 P.M.
TOUR
Sunday
Funny Bus and City Tour
Feel the energy of the Queen City while laughing nonstop on a comedy bus tour built for adults who want more than ordinary sightseeing. Charlotte has a rich history, a thriving comedy scene and stories around every corner. Come see it all from the best seat in town.
- Separate registration required: $60
6:00 – 8:00 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
Sunday
Welcome Party
Sponsored by Batesville and Legacy.com
Start your engines! Enjoy exclusive private access to the entire NASCAR Hall of Fame, offering a rare opportunity to experience this iconic destination without the crowds. Blending high-energy history with a welcoming social atmosphere, this exclusive evening sets the tone for the days ahead – bringing attendees together in a venue where competition, innovation and community come together under one roof.
NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Charlotte, North Carolina
NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Monday, October 26
9:15 – 11:45 A.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
Service of Remembrance
Sponsored by The Messenger Company and Tukios
Firefighters have long stood as symbols of courage, sacrifice and unwavering service to their communities. This year’s Service of Remembrance honors these everyday heroes and pays special tribute to the firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty.
As we acknowledge the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we also pause to remember the hundreds of firefighters who lost their lives in the towers that day – an enduring reminder of bravery that continues to shape our nation’s collective memory.
Please join us for a moving service that pays homage not only to these fallen firefighters, but also to the members of our funeral service community and their loved ones who have died during the past year. Together, we will reflect, honor and find comfort in shared remembrance.
* Held during the Opening Session.
As we acknowledge the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we also pause to remember the hundreds of firefighters who lost their lives in the towers that day – an enduring reminder of bravery that continues to shape our nation’s collective memory.
Please join us for a moving service that pays homage not only to these fallen firefighters, but also to the members of our funeral service community and their loved ones who have died during the past year. Together, we will reflect, honor and find comfort in shared remembrance.
* Held during the Opening Session.
1
Credit Hours
11 A.M. – 2 P.M.
COMMUNITY IMPACT ZONE
Monday Day 1 of 2
Community Impact Zone
Step into the Community Impact Zone and turn your convention experience into something truly powerful! This vibrant space buzzes with hands-on service projects that uplift local organizations and strengthen the communities we’re fortunate to visit.You’ll have the opportunity to make comforting fleece blankets that provide both physical warmth and a sense of security for animals awaiting adoption. The completed blankets will be donated to local animal shelters in Charlotte, helping provide comfort and care to pets as they wait for their “furever” homes. Stay tuned for other activities, as well!
3 – 6 P.M.
TOUR
Monday
South End Brewery Tour
Charlotte’s craft beer scene is second to none and you will get a taste of the best it has to offer. Enjoy a guided afternoon brewery tour throughout the city’s historic South End, where you’ll sip, socialize and sample three of the neighborhood’s most iconic breweries.
- Separate registration required: $150
3 – 4 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
Monday
Funeral Face-Off
Sponsored by PRECOA
It’s the ultimate funeral service trivia challenge. Three person teams will compete against each other during preliminary rounds this summer, but then the action heats up on the NFDA Expo Hall floor during the live Wild Card and Championship rounds. Who will walk away as champions? Participate or cheer on the teams at this year’s convention to find out!
SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
4 – 5 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
Monday
All Star Recognition Ceremony
Join the NFDA Board of Directors as the association honors the dedication, innovation and achievements of outstanding funeral service professionals. This special event shines a spotlight on individuals and firms who demonstrated excellence in their field during the past year, including:
• 2026 NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients
• NFDA Green Funeral Practice certificate holders
• NFDA Cremation Certification designees
• NFDA Certified Preplanning Consultant designees
• Funeral Service Foundation scholarship recipients
• 2026-27 NFDA National Emerging Leaders Program participants
• 2026 Meet the Mentors program participants
• 2026 NFDA Inspiration Award recipient
• NFDA International Professional Achievement certificate holders
• Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice Certified Funeral Service Practitioners
Celebrate the passion and commitment that elevates your profession – see you in the winner’s circle!
• 2026 NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients
• NFDA Green Funeral Practice certificate holders
• NFDA Cremation Certification designees
• NFDA Certified Preplanning Consultant designees
• Funeral Service Foundation scholarship recipients
• 2026-27 NFDA National Emerging Leaders Program participants
• 2026 Meet the Mentors program participants
• 2026 NFDA Inspiration Award recipient
• NFDA International Professional Achievement certificate holders
• Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice Certified Funeral Service Practitioners
Celebrate the passion and commitment that elevates your profession – see you in the winner’s circle!
Tuesday, October 27
11 A.M. – 2 P.M.
COMMUNITY IMPACT ZONE
Day 2 of 2
Community Impact Zone
Step into the Community Impact Zone and turn your convention experience into something truly powerful! This vibrant space buzzes with hands-on service projects that uplift local organizations and strengthen the communities we’re fortunate to visit.You’ll have the opportunity to make comforting fleece blankets that provide both physical warmth and a sense of security for animals awaiting adoption. The completed blankets will be donated to local animal shelters in Charlotte, helping provide comfort and care to pets as they wait for their “furever” homes. Stay tuned for other activities, as well!
3 – 4 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
Tuesday
Funeral Face-Off
Sponsored by PRECOA
It’s the ultimate funeral service trivia challenge. Three person teams will compete against each other during preliminary rounds this summer, but then the action heats up on the NFDA Expo Hall floor during the live Wild Card and Championship rounds. Who will walk away as champions? Participate or cheer on the teams at this year’s convention to find out!
SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
The Expo That Leaves Others in the Dust
Step into the NFDA Expo Hall and get ready for an experience – not just a trade show.
This is the world’s largest gathering of funeral service suppliers, innovators and trendsetters, all under one roof. Whether you’re scouting cutting-edge technology, eye-catching memorial merchandise or fresh ideas to elevate your services, the NFDA Expo Hall is your one-stop destination for what’s new and what’s next.
Stroll the aisles to test-drive the latest tools, compare smart solutions and meet the teams behind the products shaping the future of the profession. And don’t forget to take advantage of exclusive, show-only deals you won’t find anywhere else.
In short: if you want inspiration, innovation and maybe a few “Wow, I didn’t know that existed” moments, the NFDA Expo Hall is where it all happens.
Monday, October 26: Noon – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27: Noon – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 28: 9 a.m. – Noon
This is the world’s largest gathering of funeral service suppliers, innovators and trendsetters, all under one roof. Whether you’re scouting cutting-edge technology, eye-catching memorial merchandise or fresh ideas to elevate your services, the NFDA Expo Hall is your one-stop destination for what’s new and what’s next.
Stroll the aisles to test-drive the latest tools, compare smart solutions and meet the teams behind the products shaping the future of the profession. And don’t forget to take advantage of exclusive, show-only deals you won’t find anywhere else.
In short: if you want inspiration, innovation and maybe a few “Wow, I didn’t know that existed” moments, the NFDA Expo Hall is where it all happens.
Monday, October 26: Noon – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27: Noon – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 28: 9 a.m. – Noon
NFDA-Endorsed Providers
How much time do you spend researching companies to get the best deal on products and services? How do you know which companies are worthy of your trust? NFDA helps simplify the process by curating a select group of businesses that offer valuable products and services to support your funeral home. Discover these providers and learn more about what they offer at the NFDA Expo.
NFDA Funeral Career Hub
Whether you’re a student preparing for the next step in your funeral service journey, or the owner/ manager of a firm seeking to hire the best and the brightest, discover resources and get connected at NFDA’s Funeral Career Hub – conveniently located on the NFDA Expo Hall floor. It’s so much more than a job board!
NFDA Publications
NFDA strives to keep you informed, so please help keep us informed, too. Chat with the staff of The Director, Memorial Business Journal and The Director.edu about topics important to you and your business; pick up free copies of The Director; or ask us about The Director app, available exclusively for NFDA members.
NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Program
Stop by to celebrate the 2026 honorees and discover the innovative ways they’re elevating funeral service. Get inspired by their commitment to serving families and communities, and start your own journey toward this prestigious recognition.
Register for the 2027 program year during the NFDA convention and take advantage of an exclusive, attendee-only discount.
Register for the 2027 program year during the NFDA convention and take advantage of an exclusive, attendee-only discount.
Remembering A Life
NFDA is the only funeral service association with a comprehensive consumer-education initiative, and most Remembering A Life resources are free to NFDA members. If you’re looking for new content about the value of a funeral to share with families, visit the Remembering A Life booth. While you’re there, pick up our free idea guides!
Map My Show
Get more from the floor! The Expo Hall will be packed with game-changing ideas, must-see innovations – and piles of great swag, so yes… bring that extra suitcase.
Check out our amazing exhibitors at NFDA.org/MapMyShow. And while you’re there, create an account with My Show Planner to plan your route with the interactive floor plan.
Check out our amazing exhibitors at NFDA.org/MapMyShow. And while you’re there, create an account with My Show Planner to plan your route with the interactive floor plan.
We champion your calling to serve.
Join NFDA today to serve your families even better.