2026 NSA Annual Conference is headed to Charlotte, NC!
Some conferences are useful. Ours is an experience with the conversation that keeps going after the workshops end, the moments that remind you why community is so life-changing as a person who stutters, and the feeling of being fully part of something bigger. Charlotte sets the scene—walkable, welcoming, and the perfect place to come together. Come on your own, bring family, or make it a longer stay.
The 2026 Annual Conference is something you’ll be glad you didn’t miss!
Get ready for a little southern charm and a community that feels like home! We are bringing our 43rd Annual Conference to Charlotte, North Carolina, for the first time ever—and trust us, you won’t want to miss this one. From inspiring keynotes to fun for the whole family, the Queen City is where we’re making memories (and new friendships!) in 2026.
Our Annual Conference is the largest gathering of people who stutter in the US—but don’t let the word “conference” fool you. This is a truly one-of-a-kind space where stuttered voices are the majority, and everyone leaves feeling empowered like never before. For anyone ready to rediscover their voice and potential in the greatest possible way, this is definitely the place to be.
Here’s what’s waiting for you in Charlotte:
Plus a sleek uptown hotel setting with modern amenities, a 24-hour fitness studio, on-site dining, and easy access to Charlotte’s best restaurants, museums, and entertainment!
Dates:
July 1-5, 2026
Wednesday, July 1
Let's kick this off!
Registration opens at 11 AM; first workshop begins at 1 PM
Thursday, July 2
Various workshops and events from 9 AM to 4 PM
Friday, July 3
Various workshops and events from 9 AM to 3:30 PM
Saturday, July 4
Various workshops and events from 9 AM to 3 PM
Sunday, July 5
Safe travels home!
What Attendees Say
Tours/Events
July 1-5, 2026
Wednesday, July 1
BINGO, Snacks, & Prizes | 7–9 PM
BINGO, but make it a full event. We’re talking 10 rounds, real gift card prizes, and snacks to keep you fueled between wins. Your $25 covers everything—game cards, snacks, water, and multiple chances to dramatically whisper “this is my time” before yelling BINGO.
Trivia Night | 9–11 PM
Time to cash in on all those random facts living rent-free in your brain. Bring a team, join a team, or fly solo and see what happens. Trivia is fast, fun, and competitive. Your $25 includes gameplay, candy, snacks, water, and the bliss of being right.
Thursday, July 2
Bowling | 6:30–8:30 PM
For $50: two hours, lanes rolling, pizza on the table, fries in rotation, and soft drinks flowing. Bring a full team (up to eight) or show up solo and make one on the spot.
Karaoke | 9 PM–Midnight
The night that needs no introduction from us—and still sells out the room. This is the unhinged karaoke night where strangers become backup singers, and every song gets applause. The $5 cover charge helps pay for the space, sound, setup, and the human making sure everything runs smoothly and sounds great. In return, you get three hours of electric energy, big sing-along moments, and full main-character vibes. Bring your voice, bring your friends, or borrow confidence straight from the crowd.
Friday, July 3
Stutter Slam | 9 PM–Midnight
One of the most powerful nights of the Annual Conference. Stutter Slam is unforgettable and serves as a space for creativity and showing up exactly as you are. Expect moments that make you think. This event is completely free and open to everyone.
Come perform, listen, and support!
Saturday, July 4
Banquet (included in registration) | 7 PM–Midnight
The grand finale. Dinner, dancing, photos, and that end-of-week energy where everyone’s a little tired and very happy. Dinner options include beef, chicken, vegetarian, and kids' meals (full menu details coming soon), plus the group photo and plenty of time on the dance floor. A perfect send-off.
Other things to check out
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Experience the thrill of racing history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where legendary drivers, iconic cars, and interactive exhibits bring the excitement of motorsports to life. From high-speed moments to hands-on displays, this visit is a must for fans and first-timers alike!
Historical Queen City Golf Cart Tours
Explore the heart of the Queen City in a fun and relaxing way with a Historical Queen City Golf Cart Tour! Cruise through iconic neighborhoods and historic landmarks while learning fascinating stories about the city’s past, culture, and character. It’s a unique, up-close way to see the sights and experience local history come to life.
Carowinds - North Carolina's Thrill Capital!
Get ready for a day of non-stop fun and adrenaline at Carowinds, where heart-pounding roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and exciting attractions await! From thrilling rides to live entertainment and delicious treats, there’s something for everyone. Group discount tickets will be available. Please note: transportation is not included.
Location:
The Westin Charlotte
In the heart of Uptown — steps from dining, entertainment, and art.
601 S. College St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
REGISTRATION OPENING SOON
Getting to the Hotel:
There is no shuttle to and from the airport, but we have listed some different ways you can get to and from the hotel:
Uber/Lyft: Approximately $15-$20, depending on time. Should take no more than 15 minutes without traffic.
Lynx (Train/Bus): This option drops you off at the hotel. It is an easy ride from the airport, takes about 30 minutes, and costs $2.20 one way. Book here: charlottenc.gov/CATS/Ride/Trip-Planner
Parking: We are actively exploring options. Since the hotel doesn't own the parking garage, we are working with the corporation that does. Parking at the hotel is $38 per night for self-parking and $48 per night for overnight parking. As an option, there are several lots in the area (within walking distance) that you can pre-pay or book in advance that will give you a significant discount: parkwhiz.com/westin-charlotte-parking/?daily=1
Lynx: (Train/Bus): This option literally drops you off at the hotel. It is an easy ride from the airport and you takes about 30 Minutes, $2.20 one way: https://www.charlottenc.gov/CATS/Ride/Trip-Planner
Restaurants:
When you arrive this hotel, you will notice there is an ABUNDANCE of walkable eateries, whatever kind of food you might want - it is here. We have provided you with a link for quick access to what is around the area:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/11fcxct9AAtOH7bjZIId2_o3_8cC5NGwe/view?usp=sharing
Be the First to Know
Sign up below for EXCLUSIVE early-bird details and Annual Conference updates, delivered right to your inbox!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the 2026 NSA Annual Conference no longer in Scottsdale?
We recently were advised that our original hotel, The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, will be undergoing major renovations during the 2026 Annual Conference. To ensure that everyone has a positive experience, without construction noise or closed amenities, we decided to move locations.
Where will the 2026 NSA Annual Conference take place instead?
For the first time ever, we will be in Charlotte, North Carolina!
Why Charlotte?
Charlotte offers everything we look for in an Annual Conference city, including:
A lively, walkable downtown filled with restaurants and entertainment
Easy access, just 15 minutes from the airport and close to the light rail
A drivable location for many along the East Coast
The chance to bring the NSA spirit to a new state for the very first time
When will the 2026 NSA Annual Conference take place?
Conference dates remain the same—July 1-5, 2026—only the location has changed.
I already booked a room at the Westin Kierland. What should I do?
There’s nothing for you to do. All reservations will cancel automatically.
What if I have more questions?
Reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help!
2025 Denver Highlights
The 2025 Conference in Denver captured the true spirit of community. See the highlights and get ready for Charlotte!
A gathering that changes everything
It truly doesn’t matter if this is your first Annual Conference or your fifteenth; this life-changing experience is yours for the taking. In 2026, Charlotte will be the place where everyone’s voice will shine and be listened to—make sure yours will be there, too.
2026 NSA Conference Scholarship Application
Applying for Financial Assistance? Please note that reserving a hotel room is required. You’ll book it yourself (no charge at booking, and cancellation is allowed if plans change). We highly recommend booking early—once our hotel room block is full, you’ll be placed on a waitlist!
