Join Us at the 2026 Optimist International Convention in Jacksonville!
There’s something powerful that happens when Optimists gather in one place.
Ideas ignite. Friendships deepen. Leadership grows. And the impact we make for youth becomes even stronger.
The 2026 Optimist International Convention will be held June 28 – July 2, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida, at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. If you’ve never attended a convention before — or if you’ve been to many — this is one you won’t want to miss.
Why Attend the Optimist International Convention?
The convention isn’t just a meeting. It’s a celebration of everything we do as Optimists — for our youth, our communities, and ourselves.
Here’s what you can expect:
🎓 Leadership & Training Opportunities
- Governors-Elect Training – June 26–28
- International Board Meeting – June 27
- Optimist Leadership Academy Final Session – June 27
- 2025–26 Governors’ Training – June 28
These sessions equip leaders with tools, strategies, and inspiration to strengthen clubs and districts across the globe.
🎤 Inspiring General Sessions
- Opening Session – Sunday evening, June 28
- Full days of Workshops & Learning Sessions – June 29 & 30
- President’s Gala – July 1
- President-Elect Breakfast – July 2
These moments remind us why we serve. You’ll leave energized, connected, and ready to bring fresh ideas back to your club.
🌴 Why Jacksonville?
Located along the beautiful St. Johns River, Jacksonville offers:
- Riverfront dining and entertainment
- Beautiful beaches just minutes away
- A vibrant downtown atmosphere
- A welcoming Florida summer experience
Make it a convention — and a getaway!
You can explore more about the convention and Jacksonville attractions here:
👉 https://www.optimist.org/Member/convention.cfm
Be the Change Starts Here
Inspired by member feedback, convention registration will open March 1 using a new online registration platform. Now is the time to:
✔ Book your room at the Hyatt Regency
✔ Make travel plans
✔ Invite fellow Optimists from your club
✔ Start building anticipation
As 2026 Convention Ambassador Linda Thompson says:
“Bee the Change. Bee there.”
The friendships you strengthen.
The ideas you gather.
The inspiration you feel.
It all multiplies when you return home and put it into action.
Who Should Attend?
- Club Officers
- District Leaders
- Committee Chairs
- Emerging Leaders
- First-time Convention Attendees
- Any Optimist who wants to grow and make a bigger impact
If you care about the future of your club and the youth you serve — this convention is for you.
Let’s Represent Strongly
Conventions are where momentum builds. Let’s make sure our district and our clubs are well represented in Jacksonville.
Make plans now. Register early. Invite a friend.
And get ready to Bee the Change. Bee There.
— Linda Thompson
2026 Convention Ambassador
