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Beyond the Classroom: Connect, Celebrate and Create Lasting Memories in Charlotte

The 2026 NFDA International Convention & Expo (October 25-28 in Charlotte, North Carolina) offers much more than exceptional education. While attendees can earn up to 16 hours of continuing education, explore more than 300 exhibitors at the world’s largest funeral service Expo and gain fresh insights from inspiring keynote speakers, Convention is also an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, make new friends and experience the traditions that make this event unlike any other in funeral service.

Kick off Convention week on Sunday at the 26th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic: The Queen City Classic, where golfers of all skill levels can enjoy one of the profession’s premier networking events while supporting the Foundation’s mission of strengthening funeral service. That evening, continue the excitement at the Welcome Party, sponsored by Batesville and Legacy.com, with exclusive after-hours access to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Explore interactive exhibits, reconnect with friends and colleagues, and enjoy one of Convention’s most anticipated traditions.

The opportunities to connect continue throughout the week. Honor the accomplishments of your peers during the All-Star Recognition Ceremony, participate in hands-on service projects benefiting local animal shelters in the Community Impact Zone, and join colleagues for the Service of Remembrance, which this year pays tribute to firefighters who have died in the line of duty while commemorating the 25th anniversary of September 11. If you’d like to experience more of Charlotte, sign up for one of two optional guided tours: the Funny Bus and City Tour or the South End Brewery Tour.

Whether you’re networking over a round of golf, giving back to the local community, celebrating the achievements of fellow funeral professionals or simply catching up with friends, you’ll find that some of the most meaningful moments of Convention happen outside the classroom. Click here to learn more about our special events and tours.

Register by August 13 to save $200 with early-bird pricing, and reserve your hotel through the official NFDA housing bureau by September 30 for the best selection and rates. Visit NFDA.org/Convention for complete details, registration and hotel information.