Washington, DC Welcomes the 2026 NAEYC Annual Conference

This December, Washington, DC will welcome early childhood education professionals from across the country for the 2026 NAEYC Annual Conference, and DCAEYC is proud to welcome the national early childhood community to our city. Taking place December 5 through 8, 2026, the conference will bring together educators, leaders, advocates, researchers, students, and other professionals for four days of learning, professional connection, and engagement around the issues shaping early childhood education.

This year carries particular significance. NAEYC is celebrating its centennial, marking 100 years of work in support of the early childhood education profession. The 2026 Annual Conference will close that milestone year in Washington, DC, the city where NAEYC's conference history began.

For DCAEYC, having the national conference in Washington, DC is an opportunity to welcome colleagues from across the country while highlighting the people, leadership, and commitment that strengthen early childhood education throughout the District.

We look forward to seeing DCAEYC members represented throughout the conference and to welcoming NAEYC members from communities nationwide to Washington. The gathering will offer opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from research and practice, strengthen professional relationships, and celebrate the people who continue to move the field forward.

Early Bird Registration Is Now Open

Early Bird registration is available through September 11, 2026. NAEYC members can register for the full conference at the Early Bird rate of $410. Additional registration options are available for nonmembers and one-day attendees.

The conference begins Saturday, December 5 and continues through Tuesday, December 8, with pre-conference workshops and program tours available on Friday, December 4.

DCAEYC encourages members who plan to attend to register early and begin preparing to join colleagues from across the country here in Washington, DC.

NAEYC Annual Conference 2026

December 5-8, 2026Washington, DC

Early Bird registration deadline: September 11, 2026

Register for the 2026 NAEYC Annual Conference

We look forward to welcoming you to Washington, DC.