WHAT TO EXPECT
This page is your guide to making the most of your KOA Convention & Expo experience.
Location
All convention events will take place at the Kansas City Convention Center (301 W. 13th St.), unless otherwise noted in the schedule. The convention center is directly across the street from the host hotel, the Kansas City Marriott Downtown.
If you are not staying at the Marriott and require parking, the primary option is the Auditorium Plaza Garage. Parking rates are $4 per hour or $19 per day.
What to Wear
Dress comfortably for all convention activities throughout the week. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended to accommodate varying indoor temperatures. We do encourage you to "dress your best" for the Final Night Gala. Cocktail evening attire is suggested.
Don’t forget to bring at least one yellow shirt for a group photo on Wednesday. Wednesday is WEAR YELLOW DAY!
Arrival
The KOA Convention & Expo officially begins at 6:00 PM on Monday evening with the Opening Night Celebration. You may wish to arrive earlier to take advantage of optional activities that happen earlier in the day. Convention check-in opens at Noon on Monday.
New this year, organized group tours begin at 2:00 PM. First-time attendees are also invited to a special First-Timers Reception at 4:00 PM. Be sure to check the schedule of events for full details.
Check-In
The convention check-in desk will be open from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM inside the convention center. Follow posted signage to the designated check-in area. You need your name badge for all convention activities, including the off-site activities and the final night dinner.
Meals
Enjoy provided meals throughout the event. Breakfast and lunch will be served Tuesday through Thursday, with dinner on Monday and Thursday evenings.
If you have dietary restrictions or special meal requirements, please indicate them during registration. We are unable to accommodate new requests at check-in, so advance notice is required.
Special Note! This year, we are introducing a new format for the general sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday with theater-style seating in the ballroom. The networking breakfast will take place in the foyer outside the ballroom. Please enjoy breakfast before the general sessions begin. Breakfast will be served from 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM. Arrive at your convenience.
Workshops
No pre-registration is required for workshops—simply attend the sessions that interest you. Refer to the schedule for options.
If you miss a session, recordings will be available online after the event.
First-Timers Event
Join us on Monday, November 16, from 4:30 PM to 5:45 PM for the First-Timers Reception. This event is designed specifically for first-time attendees and offers a great opportunity to connect with peers and meet the FBC teams.
Please be sure to select this event during registration, so your attendance is included. The reception will take place at the Marriott in the Basie C Ballroom.
KOA Expo
Plan ahead to make the most of the KOA Expo. Review the exhibitor list in advance to prioritize your visits. Download the KOA app to explore all exhibitors and check out their show specials.
The Expo features some of the best pricing of the year, with many vendors offering exclusive show specials and flexible shipping options, including delayed delivery to seasonal campgrounds.
