This is the most complete list of museum conferences held in 2026. It includes national conferences, small regional conferences, virtual summits, and everything in between. This list includes events taking place in the US, Canada, Europe, and beyond.
January
2 conferences
MuseumNext: Museum Wellness Summit
When: January 28–29
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/
MuseumNext partnered with AAM to host the Museum Wellness Summit, a virtual gathering dedicated to the health and wellbeing of museum professionals. Topics include burnout, mental health, and workplace culture. The summit can be viewed at any time after it takes place.
Museum Connections Paris 2026
When: January 13–14
Location: Paris, France
An international trade show featuring hundreds of exhibitors, focusing on the business and sustainability challenges of museums, cultural organizations, and tourist attractions.
February
9 conferences
Georgia Association of Museums (GAM 2026)
When: February 4–6
Location: Kennesaw, Georgia
Website: https://www.gamuseums.com/conference
This year's theme, "Conversations and Curveballs: Hitting It Out of the Park in Georgia's Museums," challenges attendees to examine both the meaningful dialogues happening within their institutions and the unexpected challenges that continue to shape how they engage with communities, collections, and each other. Share stories of innovation, missteps, resilience, collaboration, and growth.
American Library Association (ALA) Virtual Event
When: February 10
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.ala.org/conferencesevents/virtual-event
AAAS Annual Meeting
When: February 12–14
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Website: https://www.aaas.org/
The American Association for the Advancement of Science hosts a major annual event that brings together researchers, educators, and science communicators. For museum and science center professionals, it's a chance to connect with scientists and explore how new research can shape public programs.
Informal Science Education Association of Texas (ISEA) Annual Meeting
When: February 11–13
Location: Houston, Texas
A regional event bringing together professionals in informal science learning across Texas, focused on collaboration, networking, and practical discussions that support the everyday work of science educators and museum professionals.
Science for All Summit
When: February 19–20
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Website: https://moreheadplanetarium.org/
Hosted by Morehead Planetarium, this summit focuses on accessibility and equity in science engagement. A focused, values-driven event for institutions working toward more inclusive programming and outreach.
MuseumNext: Green Museums Summit
When: February 25–26
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/
This virtual summit brings together museum professionals to discuss environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.
Small Museum Association (SMA) 42nd Annual Conference
When: February 16–18
Location: York, Pennsylvania
Website: https://smallmuseum.org/conference/
This year's theme is climate change. Join other small museum professionals and volunteers to discuss the key role small museums can play in educating, engaging, and supporting their communities in the face of changing physical and social climates. The annual SMA conference attracts more than 300 museum professionals, board members, and volunteers for sessions ranging from collections and education to staffing and board issues, plus a large Museum Resource Hall and ample networking opportunities.
Association of Science Museum Directors (ASMD) 2026 Directors Forum
When: February 10–12
Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
Website: https://asmd-us.org/
Panels include the value proposition of travelling exhibitions, successful fundraising strategies during tough economic times, and continued conversation on the ever-evolving "Grand Challenges Museums are Facing."
Museums Advocacy Day 2026
When: February 23–24
Location: Arlington, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Website: https://www.aam-us.org/programs/museums-advocacy-day/
This annual AAM event provides training and support to effectively engage with members of Congress and their staff. The first day in Arlington, VA covers advocacy and policy sessions; the second day takes attendees to Capitol Hill to meet with legislators and make the case for museums.
March
11 conferences
National Art Education Association Convention
When: March 5–7
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Website: https://www.arteducators.org/events-and-opportunities/national-convention/
The NAEA Convention is the largest gathering of visual arts education professionals in the world. Expect hands-on workshops, quality professional development sessions, and a community of educators who love what they do.
California Association of Museums (CAM 2026)
When: March 10–13
Location: Los Angeles, California
This year's theme is "Reframing," encapsulating both the tangible nature of museum work—what we restore, revive, and rebuild—and the intangible: where we reflect, interpret, educate, and shift perspectives. Reframing is an opportunity to redefine who we are, why we're important, and how we connect with and show up for our community.
Virginia Association of Museums (VAM) Annual Conference
When: March 14–17
Location: Williamsburg, Virginia
Website: https://www.vamuseums.org/conference
The VAM Annual Conference is where museum professionals gather to share insights, explore best practices, and strengthen Virginia's cultural community. This year's theme is "Little Revolutions."
AISES 2026 Canada National Gathering
When: March 5–7
Location: Ontario, Canada
Website: https://events.aises.org/
Advancing Indigenous People in STEM hosts its Canada National Gathering to support Indigenous students and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math. For museums and science centers, it's a valuable opportunity to engage with Indigenous communities and promote representation.
National Humanities Alliance (NHA) Annual Meeting and Advocacy Day
When: March 8–10
Location: Washington, D.C.
Website: https://nhalliance.org/
The NHA Annual Meeting brings together humanities advocates from across the country to sharpen advocacy strategies and explore new approaches to community engagement. The event also prepares attendees for direct meetings with House and Senate offices on Capitol Hill.
LRE Forum Conference 2026
When: March 10
Location: Arnhem, Netherlands
This one-day conference, themed "Beyond the 80th Anniversary: The Future of WWII Remembrance," brings together experts and innovators to explore how to keep the lessons of WWII alive for future generations, examining the role of digital media, international research, and inclusive commemoration.
Building Museums™ Symposium
When: March 11–13
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
The go-to event for museum professionals navigating the complex world of facility planning and design. A focused, practical gathering bringing together architects, project managers, and museum leaders.
National AfterSchool Association (NAA) Convention
When: March 11–14
Location: Washington, D.C.
Website: https://naaweb.org/
The NAA Convention gathers afterschool and out-of-school time professionals for a week of programming, advocacy, and connection. For museums with strong afterschool or youth programming, this is a valuable opportunity to engage with partners and expand community reach.
Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Mid-Year Meeting
When: March 21–26
Location: Portland, Oregon
Website: https://midyear.aza.org/
A focused event for zoo and aquarium professionals covering policy, governance, and accreditation. Portland's thriving cultural and natural landscape makes it a fitting host for conversations about animal care, conservation, and the evolving role of zoos and aquariums in public life.
MuseumNext: Museums Digital Collections Summit
When: March 25–26
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/
This virtual event brings together professionals shaping how museums engage audiences, from digital collections to immersive experiences.
ASC Science Talk '26
When: March 26–27
Location: Portland, Oregon
Website: https://www.associationofsciencecommunicators.org/conferences/science-talk-26/
Hosted by the Association of Science Communicators, Science Talk '26 is where science communication professionals gather to sharpen their craft.
April
11 conferences
ARIS Summit 2026
When: March 30–April 1
Location: Virtual
The Center for Advancing Research Impact in Society hosts this annual virtual summit on expanding the reach and relevance of research. This year's theme is "Impact by Design"—about showing how quantifiable work is making a difference for the communities you wanted to help. For museum professionals in research communication, community science, or public engagement, ARIS provides practical frameworks and case studies.
North Carolina Museums Council (NCMC) Conference
When: April 11–13
Location: Greenville, North Carolina
Website: https://www.ncmuseums.org/conference
Known for its collaborative, community-driven atmosphere, the NCMC Conference is where practical conversations happen and real connections are made. A strong option for those looking to strengthen regional networks and stay current on issues affecting museums in the Southeast.
Main Street Now Conference
When: April 13–15
Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Website: https://mainstreet.org/resources/main-street-now-conference
The largest national gathering of local leaders working to advance preservation-based economic opportunity in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. Brings together community developers, preservationists, local government leaders, and cultural advocates to find solutions to common problems and discover innovative tools to strengthen their communities.
National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) National Conference
When: April 15–18
Location: Anaheim, California
Website: https://my.nsta.org/event/2026ANA
One of the world's largest gatherings of science educators, with hundreds of sessions across all grade levels and disciplines offering inspiration for science learning and public engagement.
International Foundation for Cultural Property Protection (IFCPP) Annual Conference
When: April 18–22
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Website: https://ifcpp.org/
The IFCPP Annual Conference gathers cultural property protection professionals to share strategies, case studies, and best practices in security and risk management.
Association of Children's Museums (ACM) InterActivity 2026
When: April 21–23
Location: San Diego, California
The premier annual conference for children's museum professionals. Expect deep dives into child development, exhibit design, community programming, and the evolving role of play-based learning.
Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) Annual Conference
When: April 28–30
Location: Ontario, Canada
Website: https://casc-acsc.com/
Canada's premier event for science center professionals. Attendees share programming ideas, explore emerging trends in informal science learning, and build relationships that strengthen the field. Valuable for both Canadian and international participants.
MuseumNext: Museums and Schools Summit
When: April 29–30
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/museums-and-schools-summit/
A two-day virtual event bringing together museum educators, teachers, and cultural professionals to explore how museums are partnering with schools. Featuring speakers from Tate, Smithsonian, Kensington Palace, M+ Hong Kong, and more. Sessions cover digital learning, community engagement, trauma-informed practice, and building school programs from scratch.
Texas Association of Museums (TAM) Annual Conference
When: April 19–22
Location: McAllen, Texas
Website: https://www.texasmuseums.org/
This year's theme is "Stronger Together: Celebrating Community Stories." Through inspiring sessions and meaningful conversations, explore what it truly means to be stronger together.
AIC Annual Meeting
When: April 28–May 2
Location: Montreal, Canada
Website: https://www.culturalheritage.org/events/annual-meeting/current-meeting
The American Institute for Conservation's 54th Annual Meeting, in partnership with the Canadian Association for Conservation of Cultural Property (CAC-ACCR), is themed "Conservation at the Intersection of Innovation and Tradition." Explore how conservation practices can thrive at the edge of progress, experimentation, and reinvention.
Art Curators Conference 2026
When: April 30–May 1
Location: New York City, New York
The Association of Art Museum Curators (AAMC) annual gathering features two days of collaborative sessions, workshops, and networking. Topics include fresh approaches to rehanging collections, learning from self-taught artists, joy as a curatorial framework, strategic partnerships, performance and AI in museums, and more. Keynote by Thelma Golden, Ford Foundation Director and Chief Curator of the Studio Museum in Harlem.
May
8 conferences
Museum Association of New York (MANY) Annual Conference 2026
When: May 7–9
Location: Albany, New York
The primary statewide gathering of museum leaders, cultural organizations, and public agencies across New York's museum sector. This year's theme, "Museums Make New York: The State of Culture," recognizes museums as essential to the state's economic strength, civic life, and cultural identity.
Museums + Heritage Show
When: May 13–14
Location: London, England
Website: https://show.museumsandheritage.com/
The UK's largest gathering of museum and heritage industry professionals, showcasing the latest innovations and best practices in the cultural sector. Free to attend. More than 3,400 people enjoy the show's extensive program and exhibition hall filled with cutting-edge technologies and the latest products and services.
Experiential Marketing Summit 2026
When: May 18–20
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Website: https://www.eventmarketer.com/event/experiential-marketing-summit-2026/
The only conference focused solely on live experiences. Fortune 1000 companies share how they're using strategic events, sponsorship activations, and trade show exhibits to connect with and convert customers.
Museum Store Association Annual Retail Conference
When: May 19–22
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Discover fresh ideas in merchandising, marketing, operations, and sales. Network with peers, discover 220+ mission-aligned vendors, and strengthen connections across the museum retail community.
American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo
When: May 20–23
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Website: https://annualmeeting.aam-us.org/
The largest museum conference in the world, drawing professionals from art museums, history museums, and everything in between.
Digital Heritage 2026
When: May 25–29
Location: Limassol, Cyprus
Website: https://digitalheritagesummit.eu/
Bringing together world-class experts, institutions, and industry leaders, this summit focuses on the transformational impact of digital technologies on culture, heritage, and society.
Association for Advancing Participatory Sciences (AAPS) Annual Conference
When: May 26–29
Location: Virtual
Website: https://participatorysciences.org/conferences/caps-2026/
This online conference brings together researchers, facilitators, and project and community leaders to explore how citizen science and community-based research are reshaping how museums engage with the public.
MuseumNext: Museum AI Summit
When: May 27–28
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/museum-ai-summit/
A special event that deep dives into how leading cultural institutions are embracing the latest technology, with case studies from the people leading this work.
June
10 conferences
Art Museum Development Association (AMDA) 2026 Conference
When: June 1–4
Location: Miami, Florida
Website: https://amdaconference.org/
Features best practices case studies, presentations, and panels offering both strategic and tactical advice from experts in the field; roundtable discussions for directors of development segmented by museum type and size; tours of local private collections; and networking opportunities.
European Network of Science Centers and Museums (Ecsite) 2026
When: June 2–4
Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
Sessions, practical workshops, and networking events showcasing the breadth of expertise driving public engagement with science. The programme is designed by the Ecsite community, for the Ecsite community.
American Public Gardens Association (APGA) Annual Conference
When: June 8–12
Location: San Francisco, California
Website: https://www.publicgardens.org/
The key event for professionals at botanical gardens, arboretums, and public green spaces. San Francisco provides a stunning backdrop for discussions on horticulture, conservation, education, and the evolving role of public gardens in urban life.
Association of Academic Museums and Galleries (AAMG) 2026
When: June 9–12
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Website: https://www.aamg-us.org/
Museum and gallery directors and administrators are invited to learn the latest on best practices, educational activities, and development strategies.
European Museum of the Year Award and Conference
When: June 10–14
Location: Bilbao, Spain
Website: https://emya2026bilbao.eus/en/
Thirty-four museums from seventeen countries, nominated for EMYA 2026, will present their achievements during the conference. The event fosters development of forward-looking strategies in response to contemporary challenges, creating a space for dialogue and learning within and for communities.
Association for Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM) 2026 Annual Meeting
When: June 16–21
Location: Dearborn, Michigan
The 2026 Annual Meeting examines community and conflict in ways that help living history practitioners engage in conversations that facilitate learning, understanding, and healing. Workshops, presentations, local tours, and events will guide conversations that sustain living history into the foreseeable future.
MuseumNext: Museums and Public Programs Summit
When: June 24–25
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/museum-public-programs-summit/
This two-day virtual summit brings together museum professionals, educators, and cultural innovators to explore cutting-edge approaches to designing and delivering impactful public programs, with a focus on engaging diverse audiences and amplifying the museum's mission.
ISEA 2026 Annual Meeting (Summer)
When: June 24–27
Location: San Antonio, Texas
ISEA's summer gathering offers another opportunity for informal science educators in Texas to connect, learn, and recharge. A strong regional event with a dedicated community.
Natural Start Alliance (NatStart) Annual Conference
When: June 24–27
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Website: https://conference.naturalstart.org/
American Library Association (ALA) LibLearnX
When: June 25–29
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Website: https://2026.alaannual.org/
ALA's annual conference is the largest library gathering in North America. For museum professionals in research libraries, archives, or community education, LibLearnX provides cross-sector programming and a chance to connect with library colleagues facing similar challenges.
July
6 conferences
Reimagining the Historic House Museum
When: July 10
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Website: https://learn.aaslh.org/
This one-day AASLH workshop includes an analysis of the most important opportunities and threats facing historic sites in America, with discussion on field-tested tools and techniques drawn from nonprofit management, business strategy, and software development.
MuseumNext Digital Exhibitions Summit
When: July 14–15
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/digital-exhibitions-summit/
This virtual event explores how museums integrate technology into their exhibits, covering the latest strategies and trends from institutions around the globe.
Visitor Studies Association (VSA) Annual Conference
When: July 21–23
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Website: https://visitorstudies.org/conference/2026-kansas-city-conference
This year's event focuses on applied methodologies and practical approaches to visitor studies. A deep dive into the field as it's practiced in the real world, from established best practices to creative methods—essential for educators, evaluators, and exhibit developers.
Association of Midwest Museums (AMM) Conference 2026
When: Virtual: July 22; In-person: July 26–29
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Website: https://www.ammconference.org/
The premiere networking event for museum professionals in the Midwest to gather and discuss current issues, trends, and solutions.
Digital Humanities Conference 2026
When: July 27–31
Location: Daejeon, South Korea
Website: https://dh2026.adho.org/
A week of presentations, workshops, and discussions on digital tools and methods transforming humanities research, bringing together scholars, researchers, and practitioners.
ARCHIVES * RECORDS 2026
When: July 29–August 1
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Website: https://www2.archivists.org/am2026
The 90th annual meeting of the Society of American Archivists—an opportunity to explore innovative solutions to current challenges and assess the profession's history, practices, assumptions, and training.
August
4 conferences
Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD®) Conference
When: August 11–14
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Website: https://www.kennedy-center.org/lead
The annual LEAD Conference brings together professionals from theaters, museums, parks, and cultural spaces to explore practical solutions, share effective strategies, and strengthen commitment to accessibility. No other conference focuses on accessibility in cultural venues with the same depth.
Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centers (ASPAC) 2026
When: August 19–22
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Website: https://www.aspacnet.org/aspac2026
Themed "Science Engagement in the Age of Uncertainty," ASPAC 2026 is a reboot of the conference format, deliberately designed to challenge attendees at all professional levels and create intentional space for genuine, extended interaction. Held every two years, this gathering leverages the Asia-Pacific region's extraordinary diversity to share wins, losses, and lessons that make the work richer and more impactful.
Association of African American Museums (AAAM) 2026
When: August 19–21
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Themed "This Land Holds Our Stories," the AAAM annual conference honors the legacy of Black storytelling, memory, and leadership in shaping a more just and complete American narrative.
Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) Annual Summit
When: August 24–28
Location: Midland, Michigan
Website: https://natctr.org/events/summit
ANCA's Annual Summit brings the nature center community together for discussions on programming, operations, and connecting communities to the outdoors.
September
17 conferences
Association of European Open Air Museums
When: September 7–9
Location: Bucharest, Romania
Website: https://theaeom.org/event/2026-aeom-biannual-conference/
Themed "Open-air Museums as Cultural Brokers and Agents of Change," this conference explores the transformations and transformative role of open air museums over the last decade—covering representation, digital transformation, conservation in the face of climate change, and more. The event also marks the 60th anniversary of the AEOM and the 90th anniversary of host institution Dimitrie Gusti National Museum.
Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections (SPNHC) 41st Annual Meeting
When: September 7–11
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Themed "Bridging Hemispheres: Collaborating for a Unified Natural Heritage," this conference brings natural history professionals from around the world to Cape Town to discuss collections care, biodiversity data, and the future of natural history institutions.
Artificial Intelligence for Libraries, Archives & Museums (AI4LAM)
When: September 15–17
Location: Washington, D.C.
Themed "Fantastic Futures," this conference brings together professionals, researchers, technologists, and cultural heritage institutions to explore how AI can improve organizational workflows, user services, data preservation, access, discovery, and innovation in the cultural heritage sector.
IAMFA 2026
When: September 14–18
Location: Florence, Italy
Website: https://www.iamfa.org/
The International Association of Museum Facility Administrators brings its annual conference to one of the world's greatest museum cities for discussions on facilities management, sustainability, and museum operations.
International Council of Museums (ICOM-CC) 2026
When: September 14–18
Location: Oslo, Norway
Website: https://icom-cc2026.org/
The 2026 triennial conference is themed "Cultural Connections in Conservation," exploring how conservation can establish new professional connections to address global challenges, navigate temporal connections between past and present, advocate for diversity and cross-cultural communication, and help bridge intergenerational cultural divides.
Museum Ideas 2026
When: September 16
Location: London, United Kingdom
American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) Annual Conference
When: September 16–19
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Website: https://aaslh.org/annualconference/2026-annual-conference/
The premier event for history museum professionals, historic sites, and cultural heritage organizations. Providence provides a fitting host, with programming on interpretation, collections stewardship, and keeping history relevant for today's audiences.
National Council on Public History (NCPH) Annual Conference
When: September 16–19
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Themed "The Work of Revolution," the NCPH annual conference is held in partnership with AASLH this year in Providence.
Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Annual Conference
When: September 16–19
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Website: https://www.astc.org/astc-2026/
One of the premier annual events for science-engagement professionals in science and technology centers, museums, and related organizations across North America and around the world. This year's theme is "Forward."
MuseumNext: Digital Collections Summit
When: September 21–22
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/digital-collections-summit/
Topics include digitization, collection management, online curation, digital storytelling, digital asset management systems, and artificial intelligence.
Nineteenth International Conference on the Inclusive Museum
When: September 22–24
Location: Sydney, Australia (and Virtual)
Held at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, this conference features sessions on accessibility, equity, community representation, and the evolving social role of cultural institutions. Both in-person and virtual attendance options are available.
Florida Association of Museums (FAM) Annual Conference
When: September 22–25
Location: West Palm Beach, Florida
Website: https://flamuseums.org/professional-development/annual-conference/conference-page/
Themed "Soaring to New Heights," this is one of the most highly regarded state conferences among museum professionals.
ASALH 110th Annual Conference
When: September 23–27
Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia
Website: https://asalh.org/conference/
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History promotes, researches, preserves, interprets, and disseminates information about Black life, history, and culture. This year's event focuses on a century of Black history commemorations.
Western Museums Association (WMA) Annual Meeting 2026
When: September 23–26
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Website: https://westmuse.org/annual-meeting
WMA invites museum professionals to imagine boldly, reaching beyond inherited boundaries to shape futures not yet written—expanding community engagement, rethinking stewardship, and exploring new interpretive strategies.
National Association of Museum Schools (NAMS) Conference 2026
When: September 25–27
Location: Rogers, Arkansas
Website: https://www.museumschools.org/
A three-day conference bringing together educators from across the nation to network and share innovative teaching methods and strategies. Breakout sessions are designed for teachers and administrators at museum and traditional schools, museum educators, and museum school supporters.
Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Annual Conference
When: September 26–October 1
Location: Portland, Oregon
The largest, most comprehensive event for zoo and aquarium professionals in the country, with 150+ education program sessions, poster presentations, and roundtable discussions. Connect with 3,000+ attendees from AZA-accredited institutions and explore new technology and services from 200+ vendors.
Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC) Annual Meeting
When: September 28–30
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Website: https://www.semcdirect.net/
Themed "Forged in Culture & Focused on the Future," SEMC 2026 will explore how museums and cultural institutions can evolve with purpose, creativity, and resilience, discussing emerging trends and collaborating on advancing the museum field.
October
14 conferences
North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) Annual Conference
When: October 6–9
Location: Portland, Oregon
Website: https://naaee.org/
The premier event for environmental education professionals. For museums and nature centers, it offers a chance to connect with educators and advocates across formal and informal learning.
Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums (MAAM) Annual Conference
When: October 6–8
Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey
Dedicated to fostering excellence in museums through high-quality professional development, networking opportunities, and special events for museum professionals in the region.
Visual Resources Association 2026
When: October 7–9
Location: Portland, Oregon
A multi-day event bringing together professionals from education, cultural heritage, and industry to connect, collaborate, and explore the latest trends in image and media management.
Muscon Europe
When: October 7–10
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Website: https://muscon.org/
NEMO European Museum Conference 2026
When: October 11–13
Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Website: https://www.ne-mo.org/news-events/nemo-european-museum-conference/
Themed "Human After All: Museums in the Wake of AI," NEMO 2026 focuses on how museums can maintain their focus on people and purpose while adapting to accelerating technological change—including the civic responsibilities of museums in maintaining public trust, supporting digital literacy, and engaging visitors.
Communicating the Arts 2026
When: October 13–16
Location: Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada
Themed "Building Trust, Bridging Worlds," this conference explores how cultural institutions can act as spaces of connection, nurturing empathy, resilience, and mutual understanding. Four days of keynotes, panels, and workshops on strengthening relationships across generations and communities.
Association for Science Discovery Centres (ASDC) Annual Conference
When: October 14–15
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Website: https://www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-national-conference/
The UK's science center community meets in Cardiff for focused programming on exhibit design, public engagement, and the evolving role of science centers in informal learning.
Advancing Indigenous People in STEM (AISES) National Conference
When: October 15–17
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
AISES's flagship national conference brings together Indigenous students, professionals, and allies in STEM. For museums and science centers focused on Indigenous representation and community partnerships, it's an important event and a chance to listen and learn.
MuseumNext: Creative Museums Summit
When: October 21–22
Location: Virtual
Website: https://www.museumnext.com/events/creative-museum-summit/
The Creative Museums Summit explores how museums function as vibrant engines of creativity, not just repositories of knowledge. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and actionable strategies, the summit dives deep into the multifaceted world of creativity within museums. Presentations are available on-demand for 12 months after the event.
MCN 2026
When: October 21–23
Location: Seattle, Washington
Website: https://mcn.edu/
Held at the Hyatt Regency Seattle, MCN 2026 brings together museum and cultural heritage professionals from across North America and beyond to connect, share knowledge, and explore the latest innovations in digital technologies for museums.
2026 SEGD Conference Experience Kansas City
When: October 22–24
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Website: https://segd.org/events/2026-segd-conference-experience-kansas-city/
A great event for those working in exhibition design, bringing together a global community of experiential designers to explore how design can create meaningful connections.
Washington Museum Association Annual Conference
When: October 19–21
Location: Bainbridge Island, Washington
Website: https://washingtonmuseumassociation.org/conference/
This year's theme is "The Power of Place: Museums Supporting Communities". Registration opens in May.
American Museum Membership Conference (AMMC) Annual Conference
When: October 26–29
Location: Los Angeles, California
Website: https://www.americanmuseummembership.org/2026-ammc-los-angeles.html
Themed "Re/Focus," this conference helps membership professionals sharpen skills in best practices, new technologies, and community-building strategies. Sessions cover acquisition, retention, donor cultivation, and digital strategy, with peers sharing real impact and sustainable revenue approaches.
SACNAS National Conference
When: October 29–31
Location: Long Beach, California
Website: https://www.sacnas.org/conference
The Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science hosts one of the country's most culturally vibrant STEM conferences. For museums aiming to broaden participation in science and build authentic community relationships, SACNAS offers both inspiration and a call to action.
November
6 conferences
Museums Association Conference 2026
When: November 2–4
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Website: https://www.museumsassociation.org/events/conference-2026/
Themed "Connecting Communities," this year's Museums Association Conference celebrates how the sector is finding inventive ways to work with communities through challenging times. Sessions explore how museums are restoring civic pride, creating hope, and encouraging social change through deeper and more meaningful community connections.
New England Museum Association (NEMA) Annual Conference 2026
When: November 4–6
Location: Mystic, Connecticut
As the museum field faces uncertainty and upheaval at national levels, this conference considers how museums are pushing against expectations—standing in their missions and values with integrity while keeping the doors open, serving as third spaces, educational facilities, change agents, emotional refuges, and crucial social networks.
National Association for Interpretation (NAI) 2026
When: November 10–13
Location: Oakland, California
Website: https://nai-us.org/NAIConference/
Themed "Creating Community Rooted in Interpretation," this conference celebrates how we grow together through shared stories, inclusive practices, and connections that sustain both people and the planet. Expect inspiring keynotes, hands-on sessions, and local field trips highlighting the Bay Area's cultural and natural heritage.
IAAPA Expo 2026
When: November 16–19
Location: Orlando, Florida
IAAPA Expo brings together professionals from theme parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, and science centers to learn about trends and best practices. Highlights include miles of trade show floor, networking with operators, suppliers, investors, and developers, and dozens of education sessions.
Evaluation 2026
When: November 16–21
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Website: https://www.evaluationconference.org/About/Evaluation-2026
The American Evaluation Association (AEA) annual conference brings together 2,000+ evaluation professionals from multiple disciplines and backgrounds to learn best practices, discover new techniques, and implement lessons learned from others in the field.
National Digital Forum (NDF)
When: November 23–25
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Website: https://museums.io/conferences/1
NDF is a nonprofit that works to enhance interaction with technology and culture and drives digital capability within the cultural sector. This year's theme focuses on connections—within and beyond the digital—exploring how cultural organizations can navigate AI, information spaces, and technological change together.
December
No conferences scheduled for December 2026.