The Convention schedule includes evening networking events and entertainment each night, plus open time for attendees to schedule their own meetings. Below is the full evening schedule, plus attire guidance for each event.

Monday, April 12
Evening Events

New & First-Time Member Orientation

First-time Convention attendees and new NIA members are invited to this orientation to learn how NIA membership benefits them. Attendees are paired with a NIA mentor, get an overview of how to make the most of Convention, and find out which sessions and events best fit their business type. NIA staff, committee members, and association leaders are introduced during this session. This orientation is invitation-only. To receive an invitation, check the "First Convention" box when you register.

Convention First-Timers Happy Hour

First-time NIA Convention attendees are invited to this cocktail reception to network with NIA leadership, industry leaders, and fellow first-time members. This event is invitation-only. To receive an invitation, check the "First Convention" box when you register.

Welcome and Appreciation Evening: Honoring the Craft, Coast to Coast

This family-friendly reception and dinner will celebrate the journey—the miles traveled, the craft honed, and the connections made along the way. Make sure you stop in each region to sample its unique flair and cuisines, from Southern smokehouse barbecue, New England seafood, Midwest comfort food to West Coast flavor.

Enjoy live music, strike a pose at our vintage VW Bus, and grab a Polaroid camera to capture the moment with new and old friends! It’s all part of an evening Honoring the Craft that brings us together as an industry and a community. The event takes place outdoors, and resort casual attire is suggested.

Tuesday, April 13
Evening Events

Open Night―Network on your own and explore Orlando!

Wednesday, April 14
Evening Events

Farewell Reception & Dinner 

NIA's Farewell Reception & Dinner closes out our time together  with a cocktail reception, a full meal, an open bar, and a final opportunity to network . This event also celebrates outgoing NIA President John Stevens of JT THORPE. Dressy casual/resort wear is encouraged — for example, slacks and button-down shirts for men, and pantsuits or dresses for women.

Hosted Dessert Hospitality Suites

Immediately following the Farewell Dinner, participating Associate (Manufacturer) member companies host hospitality suites for attendees. Visit each suite to sample desserts and cocktails, complete a dessert bingo raffle card for a chance to win a raffle prize, and extend your networking time with industry colleagues.

What Should I Wear to NIA's Convention Events?

All Convention sessions and daytime events are casual—khakis, slacks, blouses, and golf shirts are recommended.

Two evening events have specific attire guidance: Monday’s Welcome and Appreciation Evening takes place outdoors, so resort casual attire is suggested. Wednesday’s Farewell Reception and Dinner calls for dressy casual/resort wear—for example, slacks and button-down shirts for men, and pantsuits or dresses for women.