NRPA Opening Reception

The NRPA Opening Reception at 6:30 p.m. October 5 is the kickoff to a week full of discovery. Join thousands of your peers, speakers and exhibitors at the St. Louis Zoo to explore the wildlife exhibits, grab a drink, have a bite to eat and show off your moves on the dance floor while enjoying the band. Special guests include penguins, apes, stingrays and more! The Zoo, in beautiful Forest Park, is renowned for its beautiful naturalistic exhibits and for its diverse collection of animals. It is widely recognized for its animal management, wildlife conservation, research and education. This party is graciously sponsored by GameTime and tickets are included with Full Package, Young Professional and Guest registration packages.

The Creativity Lab

New this year, the Creativity Lab will host facilitated individual, small and large group activities, games and exercises throughout the Conference that will help spark innovation, guide creative problem solving and provide engaging discussions. Use kinetic sand to squeeze, stretch and shape whatever comes to mind. Play audio tic-tac-toe and improv games, participate in a scavenger hunt and try out a mini skill-builder activity. Loosen up and have some fun at the Creativity Lab. Check the Conference Mobile App for the full schedule of the activities happening October 5, 6 and 7.

Exhibitor Hosted Happy Hour

Stick around the Exhibit Hall October 6 for the Exhibitor Hosted Happy Hour at 5 p.m. This event will feature food, drinks and opportunities to win a variety of giveaways. You can catch up with old friends, share everything you learned during the first two days of the Conference and chat with exhibitors. This is also a great opportunity to browse the exhibit hall and discover the amazing products and services on display from the more than 400 exhibitors.

NRPA Closing General Session: Parks and Rec, All Hands on Deck

We are capping off three days of innovative education sessions with a big surprise at 4:45 p.m. October 7. This event may be cloaked in mystery but it’s guaranteed to be something you will be telling all your co-workers about when you get back to the office. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to join thousands of your peers for a finale session like none other — including a demonstration that you won’t soon forget and an opportunity to have some fun with other attendees. This surprise will be worth the wait, so make sure you mark this “session” on your schedule.