2026 OALA Conference & Awards

This year’s OALA Conference, titled JOY: The Power and Purpose of Place, will explore bold ideas and innovative solutions that demonstrate how OALA members are leading the way in designing more vibrant and joyful environments that have the potential to heal social division and strengthen our societal resilience.

Join us in Kitchener, October 1-3, 2026, to share stories, spark your imagination, and celebrate the joyful potential of landscape architecture.

Register here

Date: October 1-3, 2026
Location: Crowne Plaza Kitchener
Early Bird available until July 1, 2026. 

Conference At a Glance: 

Thursday, October 1, 2026

The 2026 OALA Conference spans over three days. On Thursday afternoon, you will have a choice to enjoy tours from 2:00 - 4:00 pm exploring the many facets and projects around the Kitchener-Waterloo region. At 2:00 pm a L.A.R.E. Prep Session will be offered for exam candidates at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Following the tours, join us for the Oktoberfest Welcome Reception - an evening with a live accordionist, Bavarian dancers, delicious food, and wonderful company. It’s the perfect way to kick off the conference with energy, JOY and a true Kitchener experience!

Friday, October 2, 2026

Friday will be filled with insightful education sessions and opportunities that explore bold ideas and innovative solutions that demonstrate how landscape architects are creating places that foster connection, support well-being, heal social division, and strengthen community resilience. The Exhibitor Tradeshow will also be on during the day on Friday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, providing opportunities to learn and network from valued product and services providers.

Explore all the Exhibitors and Sponsors of the 2026 OALA Conference!

In the evening, you won’t want to miss the OALA Awards Ceremony at The Walper Hotel. Join us at the hotel for a reception from 6:00 - 7:00 pm, followed by the Awards Ceremony from 7:00 - 8:30 pm.

After the ceremony, join the JOYful Celebration at the hotel’s Lokal Bar from 8:30 - 10:00 pm; the perfect way to celebrate the success of the conference’s second day before the next set of tours the following morning.

Saturday, October 3, 2026

To conclude the conference on a high note the final set of tours will take place from 10:00pm - 12:00 pm. Delegates will have the option to enjoy a mix of walking and bus tours, continuing to explore the many landscapes, projects, and joyful spaces throughout Kitchener and surrounding area.

To review full program with session details including title, speakers, description etc. click below:

View full program here

For hotel accommodation booking information click below: 

Book accommodation