The 2021 Western Arts Alliance Annual Conference
Join us virtually or in person in Portland, OR for the 2021 Western Arts Alliance Annual Conference—
August 30th – September 2nd, 2021!
We are excited to welcome in-person attendees to the City of Roses for the first WAA Conference in Portland since 1996. The dates and the hybrid format remain the same. WAA is committed to a conference that is accessible, inspiring, productive, and safe—whether you join us in-person or online. We are saddened that we can’t meet in Albuquerque, but like so many things in this crazy year, we are buffeted by forces beyond our control.
Meeting in Portland is both sensible and economical.
As our home base, the staff already know the metro Portland community and infrastructure, saving WAA time and money—critical resources given the timing and the pandemic.
We were able to secure a guest room rate 20% below our contracted rate in Albuquerque. We’ll share hotel information and our reservation link shortly.
There is no sales tax in Oregon, so attendees (and WAA) save with every purchase.
What to Expect
Showcasing
The Official Showcase program will be presented virtually this year to maximize participation. The application period will open shortly, so stay tuned.
Independent showcasing will be offered for online viewing as well. We’ll share additional information soon.
In-Person
August 30 – September 2, 2021
If you plan to join in-person, expect to see friends and colleagues, but not the same ol’ conference you’ve attend in the past. During this unprecedented year, we’re taking the opportunity to experiment and try some new things.
Given the limitations of space, reduced attendance and the challenges of a hybrid event, we’re re-designing how attendees connect and do business. The goal of our hybrid format is to prioritize connection, discovery, and accessibility. In lieu of an exhibit hall, the in-person conference will feature a flexible space, with WiFi, where attendees can meet, visit, and work.
We see this conference as the first step towards the journey of reopening. The road ahead will be tough, but it will happen. And it begins at WAA 2021.
Virtual
August 31 – September 1, 2021
If you plan to join virtually, you’ll be able to participate in the core programming, watch the Official Showcase program, connect with your colleagues, and prospect for new business connections. The virtual conference will be hosted on a platform that we’re very excited about and look forward to sharing more soon!
Registration Dates
Registration opening date: TBD - We’re working through a technical issue and registration will launch as soon as it is resolved!
*changed from June 7
Costs are currently being finalized and will be updated as soon as we know!
Membership Requirement
Unlike past years, there is no membership requirement to attend the conference, and the cost is the same regardless of your membership type. With no exhibit hall, all members have equal access to the same rates. Members save 20% on base registration rates and will have access to exclusive registration packages, so consider renewing your membership or joining before registration opens!
Have questions or concerns not addressed here? Feel free to reach out by contacting staff@westarts.org