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Special Event Tours

Scanning for CE Has Never Been Easier! This year, if you want CE credit for the workshops and events you attend, you must download the NFDA app! Once downloaded, simply scan the QR code on your way out of each workshop or event. App sponsored by Tribute Technology.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cemu003eWatch for more information on how to get and use the app as we get closer to Convention.u003c/emu003e DOWNLOAD THE APP DOWNLOAD THE APP >

Sunday, October 25

8:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT

26th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic: The Queen City Classic

Now in its 26th year, the Funeral Service Foundation’s golf outing has raised more than $2.15 million in support of its mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.

Join funeral directors and allied professionals of all skill levels for the Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic! Held in conjunction with the annual NFDA International Convention & Expo, the shotgun scramble-style tournament is one of the best networking opportunities in the profession and convention week’s most anticipated tee time.

This year, we’re heading to Olde Sycamore Golf Club, an award-winning course tucked into a majestic forest of Carolina tall pines just outside the Queen City. Designed by Carolina Hall of Fame architect Tom Jackson, and recognized as both the “Best New Course” and “Best Eastside Course” in Charlotte, Olde Sycamore offers beautifully maintained fairways and some of the best greens in the region.

Sponsorship and individual golfer registration are both available. Visit FuneralServiceFoundation.org/golf to register and learn about sponsorship opportunities.

Olde Sycamore Golf Club, Charlotte, North Carolina
The Funeral Service Foundation's work in scholarships, grants and free resources for the profession is made possible through the support of donors like you. Visit the foundation's booth at NFDA Central to learn more and get involved.
Separate registration required
6:00 – 8:00 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT
House of Blues, 329 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654

Welcome Party

Start your engines! Enjoy exclusive private access to the entire NASCAR Hall of Fame, offering a rare opportunity to experience this iconic destination without the crowds. Blending high-energy history with a welcoming social atmosphere, this exclusive evening sets the tone for the days ahead – bringing attendees together in a venue where competition, innovation and community come together under one roof.

NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Charlotte, North Carolina

Monday, October 27

9:15 – 11:45 A.M.
SPECIAL EVENT

Service of Remembrance

Firefighters have long stood as symbols of courage, sacrifice and unwavering service to their communities. This year’s Service of Remembrance honors these everyday heroes and pays special tribute to the firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty.

As we acknowledge the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we also pause to remember the hundreds of firefighters who gave their lives in the towers that day – an enduring reminder of bravery that continues to shape our nation’s collective memory.

Please join us for a moving service that pays homage not only to these fallen firefighters, but also to the members of our funeral service community and their loved ones who have died during the past year. Together, we will reflect, honor and find comfort in shared remembrance.

* Held during the Opening Session.
4:00 – 5:00 P.M.
SPECIAL EVENT

All Star Recognition Ceremony

Join the NFDA Board of Directors as the association honors the dedication, innovation and achievements of outstanding funeral service professionals. This special event shines a spotlight on individuals and firms who demonstrated excellence in their field during the past year, including:
• 2026 NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients
• NFDA Green Funeral Practice certificate holders
• NFDA Cremation Certification designees
• NFDA Certified Preplanning Consultant designees
• Funeral Service Foundation scholarship recipients
• 2026-27 NFDA National Emerging Leaders Program participants
• 2026 Meet the Mentors program participants
• 2026 NFDA Inspiration Award recipient
• NFDA International Professional Achievement certificate holders
• Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice Certified Funeral Service Practitioners

Celebrate the passion and commitment that elevates your profession – see you in the winner’s circle!
TBD
COMMUNITY IMPACT ZONE
Day 1 of 2

Community Impact Zone

Step into the Community Impact Zone and turn your convention experience into something truly powerful! This vibrant space buzzes with hands-on service projects that uplift local organizations and strengthen the communities we’re fortunate to visit. Jump in, roll up your sleeves, and feel the energy of making a real difference. It’s your chance to live our mission of service, spark meaningful change, and leave a positive footprint long after the convention ends.

Tuesday, October 28

TBD
COMMUNITY IMPACT ZONE
Day 2 of 2

Community Impact Zone

Step into the Community Impact Zone and turn your convention experience into something truly powerful! This vibrant space buzzes with hands-on service projects that uplift local organizations and strengthen the communities we’re fortunate to visit. Jump in, roll up your sleeves, and feel the energy of making a real difference. It’s your chance to live our mission of service, spark meaningful change, and leave a positive footprint long after the convention ends.
The Expo That Leaves Others in the Dust Step into the NFDA Expo Hall and get ready for an experience – not just a trade show.

This is the world’s largest gathering of funeral service suppliers, innovators and trendsetters, all under one roof. Whether you’re scouting cutting-edge technology, eye-catching memorial merchandise or fresh ideas to elevate your services, the NFDA Expo Hall is your one-stop destination for what’s new and what’s next.

Stroll the aisles to test-drive the latest tools, compare smart solutions and meet the teams behind the products shaping the future of the profession. And don’t forget to take advantage of exclusive, show-only deals you won’t find anywhere else.

In short: if you want inspiration, innovation and maybe a few “Wow, I didn’t know that existed” moments, the NFDA Expo Hall is where it all happens.

Monday, October 26: Noon – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27: Noon – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 28: 9 a.m. – Noon
NFDA-Endorsed Providers How much time do you spend researching companies to get the best deal on products and services? How do you know which companies are worthy of your trust? NFDA helps simplify the process by partnering with a select group of businesses that offer valuable products and services to support your funeral home. Discover these providers and learn more about what they offer at the NFDA Expo.
NFDA Funeral Career Center Whether you’re a student preparing for the next step in your funeral service journey, or the owner/manager of a firm seeking to hire the best and the brightest, discover resources and get connected at NFDA’s Funeral Career Center – conveniently located on the NFDA Expo Hall floor. It’s so much more than a job board!
NFDA Publications NFDA strives to keep you informed, so please help keep us informed, too. Chat with the staff of The Director, Memorial Business Journal and The Director.edu about topics important to you and your business; pick up free copies of The Director; or ask us about The Director app, available exclusively for NFDA members.
A Brush With Death Listen in as Gabe Schauf, host of NFDA’s “A Brush With Death” podcast, interviews guests about the future of the funeral service profession. Catch these episodes live in the NFDA Lounge! Who knows, he might even invite you to sit down for a conversation.
Restorative Art Technical Showcase (R.A.T.S.) Watch contestants battle it out in NFDA’s restorative arts competition – back for a second year! Each competitor will display their skills, knowledge and talent to restore form and natural appearance to model heads with simulated trauma. All work will be performed in front of a live audience, and a panel of expert judges will discuss the restorative process and offer critiques and suggestions throughout. Acclaim and prizes are on the line.
NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Program Stop by to celebrate the 2026 honorees and discover the innovative ways they’re elevating funeral service. Get inspired by their commitment to serving families and communities, and start your own journey toward this prestigious recognition.

Register for the 2027 program year during the NFDA convention and take advantage of an exclusive, attendee-only discount.
Remembering A Life NFDA is the only funeral service association with a comprehensive consumer-education initiative, and most Remembering A Life resources are free to NFDA members. If you’re looking for new content about the value of a funeral to share with families, visit the Remembering A Life booth. While you’re there, pick up our free idea guides!
TBD
SPECIAL EVENT

Funeral Face-Off

It’s the ultimate funeral service trivia challenge. Three-person teams will compete against each other during preliminary rounds this summer, but then the action heats up on the NFDA Expo Hall floor during the Wild Card and Championship rounds. Who will walk away as champions? Participate or cheer on the teams at this year’s convention to find out!
SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Thank You to Last Year’s Sponsors