The Oregon Fair Association is excited to return to the beautiful Wingspan Event & Conference Center for our 2026 Annual Convention!
📅 Save the Date: October 15–17, 2026
This is more than just a conference — it’s where Oregon’s fair industry comes together to learn, connect, and strengthen the future of our events.
Whether you’re fair staff, a board member, volunteer leader, or committee member, Convention offers something valuable for everyone:
✨ Practical education sessions you can immediately apply at your fair and facility
✨ Discussions with peers facing the same challenges
✨ Networking with industry partners and associate members
✨ Fresh ideas for revenue generation, operations, marketing, and community engagement
✨ Inspiration and renewed energy as you head into your next fair season
Our fairs thrive when leadership invests in professional development. Sending staff, board members, and key volunteers to Convention is an investment in stronger operations, better decision-making, and long-term sustainability.
We are building a dynamic schedule filled with relevant topics, interactive learning, and meaningful connection time with your fellow fair professionals from across the state. If you have ideas, please send them to us!
🔜 Registration, session details, hotel information, and more will be available soon — but mark your calendar now and start planning to bring your team.
We can’t wait to gather, collaborate, and continue strengthening Oregon’s fair industry together in October 2026!
Some of the amazing breakout sessions planned for the 2026 Convention
KEYNOTE: Now What? Smoothly Sailing our Fairs through Uncharted Waters (Jeremy Parsons, Iowa State Fair)
Sessions:
- Volunteers: It’s not about the role; it’s about the vibe (Jill Ingalls, 360 Events)
- Junior Fair Boards – The Reasons Your Fair Needs Them! (Jessie McLaughlin, Spokane County Interstate Fair)
- Competitive Exhibits – the Unsung Stars of Your Fair (Jessie McLaughlin, Spokane County Interstate Fair)
- Looking Back to Move Your Fair Forward (Jeremy Parsons, Iowa State Fair)
- From Idea to Blue Ribbon: Project Management Basics (Connie Plowman, Portland Community College)
- From Conflict to Cooperation (Connie Plowman, Portland Community College)
- Establishing Successful Board & CEO Relationships (Rey O’Day, NICA Executive Director)