What Do I Need to Know to Attend the 2026 AAW National Convention?

Unbridled. Bold. Boundless. We're heading to Lexington, Kentucky, for the American Agri-Women (AAW) National Convention! Whether this is your first Convention or you've attended for years, it's an opportunity to connect with women from across agriculture, learn, build friendships, and discover ways to get involved.

For NVA members, it's also our chance to meet the women we've been getting to know virtually. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your experience!

1. When and Where Is Convention in 2026?

November 12–15, 2026

The Campbell House1375 South Broadway, Lexington, Kentucky 40504

Lexington puts us in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass region, known for its horse farms and agricultural heritage.

Find the latest information and registration details on the official AAW Convention page.

2. What Happens at Convention?

The agenda includes a mix of educational opportunities, AAW business, tours, and time to connect with other members.

Highlights of this year's program include:

• First-Time Attendees' Dinner: An opportunity to meet other first-time attendees and get acquainted.

• Town Hall Meeting: Participate in conversations about AAW and its work.

• Opening Ceremony: Includes the presentation of flags, Parade of States, and an NVA update.

• Agricultural and local tours: The posted agenda includes a tour of Spy Coast Farm and a distillery tour.

• AAW business meetings: Learn about the organization's work, priorities, and leadership.

• Educational speaker: Dr. Kristen Strome is listed to present “Own Your MAGIC.”

• Gala: An evening celebrating achievements, awards, Road to Influence graduation, and officer installation.

Review the latest Convention agenda for updates, times, and activity details.

3. Is This Your First Convention?

Welcome! Everyone has a first Convention, and you won't be the only one learning the ropes.

Make a point of attending the First-Time Attendees' Dinner! It's a great opportunity to meet other first-timers, ask questions, and get comfortable before the rest of Convention gets underway. Check the final agenda for the confirmed time and details.

Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, or join a conversation. You don't need to know everyone, understand every AAW policy, or hold a leadership position to belong.

And if you're attending with NVA, find us! We're looking forward to meeting our virtual friends face-to-face.

4. What Does It Cost?

The published Convention registration rates are:

• Member or spouse: $250

• Non-member: $300

• One-day attendance: $125

• Friday evening only: $75

These fees may not include all your travel, accommodations, meals, or personal expenses. Confirm current registration availability and what's included before making plans.

Scholarship opportunity for first-time attendees

Don't assume cost has to keep you from attending! The American Agri-Women Foundation offers the Helen Whitmore Memorial Convention Scholarship to help eligible members attend Convention.

Visit the AAW Foundation scholarship page for eligibility and application details. The listed August 15 deadline has passed for 2026, but contact the Foundation to ask whether late applications or remaining funds may be available. Deadlines can be flexible in some circumstances, but late consideration is not guaranteed.

5. Where Should I Stay, and How Do I Get There?

The designated Convention hotel is The Campbell House in Lexington. AAW published a special hotel room-block rate with an October 12, 2026 deadline. Since that date has passed, contact the hotel or AAW to ask whether rooms or the special rate are still available.

The hotel advertises complimentary shuttle service to and from Blue Grass Airport (LEX). Confirm shuttle arrangements directly with the hotel. Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is another airport to compare when planning your travel, but you'll need to arrange transportation from there.

6. What Should I Pack and Wear?

Bring your registration confirmation, travel details, business cards or contact information, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and personal essentials.

Daytime sessions are a good opportunity for business-casual attire, while tours call for comfortable, practical clothing.

And then there's Gala night!

This is your opportunity to glam up as much as you want. Bring the fancy dress, your favorite jewelry, bold colors, or all the sparkles if that's your style. Want to show off your personality? This is your night!

But don't worry if all you have is jeans. Wear them and come join us! There is no judgment here. Everyone is welcome, and being part of the celebration matters far more than what you're wearing.

Dress up if you want to, keep it simple if you prefer, and enjoy the evening!

7. What Is the Hospitality Room?

The hospitality room is one of the best opportunities to connect with other AAW members in a relaxed, casual setting.

Enjoy drinks and refreshments provided by the host, meet someone new, or catch up with old friends you haven't seen since the last in-person event. It's a chance to continue conversations, make new connections, and enjoy time together outside the formal program.

When you arrive, check the Convention schedule at the registration desk for the hospitality room's location and hours, or simply ask someone at registration. Arrangements vary from Convention to Convention, so always check the current information.

The posted 2026 agenda lists hospitality room hours on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, but confirm the final arrangements when you arrive.

Make time to stop in if you can. Some of the best connections happen when the meetings are over and everyone has time to relax and visit.

8. How Can You Get the Most Out of Convention?

Don't just attend. Participate!

• Introduce yourself to someone new.

• Attend sessions that interest you and some that challenge you.

• Ask questions and learn from other women's experiences.

• Exchange contact information and follow up afterward.

• Connect with the NVA members you've met virtually.

• Look for opportunities to contribute your skills, knowledge, and experience.

You don't have to be the most experienced person in the room to have something valuable to offer. The more you engage, the more opportunities you may discover.

9. Where Can You Find Updates?

• Convention information and registration: americanagriwomen.org/events

• NVA information: americanagriwomen.org/nva

• Foundation scholarships: americanagriwomen.org/scholarships

• Questions for NVA: aawnva@gmail.com

Check the official Convention information before traveling, as schedules and arrangements can change.

A Final Word from NVA

You don't have to know everyone, hold an office, or have years of experience with AAW to belong at Convention. You just have to be willing to show up, connect, learn, and contribute.

For NVA members, this is our chance to turn virtual connections into real friendships and become part of the wider community of women working together for agriculture.

Come ready to connect, learn, lead, and grow. We hope to see you in Lexington!