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Parks Forum

March 18 March 20

Location: Edmonton, AB

About Parks Forum

The 2026 Parks Forum will be held March 2026 in Edmonton, Alberta. This educational and networking event will attract up to 150 delegates from across Western Canada.

The primary objectives of the Parks Forum are:

  • To provide educational and development opportunities that include the exchange of views, sharing of experiences and learning of new and unique approaches to planning and managing parks and open spaces.
  • To develop ideas, concepts and proposals for realistic interaction and collaboration on issues and initiatives of common interest and concern.
  • To explore the connections, benefits and roles that parks provide in today’s ever-changing society.

These important objectives will be achieved at the 2026 Parks Forum through a program that will appeal to a broad range of interests, and engage a variety of learning styles. The program consists of keynote speakers, inter-active workshops, concurrent sessions, panel discussions, plenary sessions, student integration, trade show and opportunities for informal social interaction.

Registration is now open! We have three options which include:

  • Full Event Registration: This includes tours on March 18 and all sessions, meals, and tours on March 19 and 20.
  • Park Tours Only: This includes the tour’s on March 18 and the tours on March 19. No meals are included.
  • Single Day – March 19: This includes all sessions, meals, and tours on March 19.
  • Full Event
    • $550 ARPA Members
    • $750 Non-members
    • $350 Students
  • Single Day – March 19
    • $400 ARPA Members
    • $550 Non-members
    • $300 Students
  • Park Tours Only
    • $200 ARPA Members
    • $350 Non-members
    • $100 Students

The theme for the 2026 Parks Forum is, Urban Connections: Parks in a Changing World.

As the urban landscape rapidly evolves, experiences climate uncertainty, undergoes shifting social dynamics, go through changing technology, park spaces continue to provide a vital connection linking people to nature, communities to culture, and cities to resilience. Urban Connections: Parks in a Changing World will explore the role parks have in shaping accessible, sustainable, and adaptive urban environments.This event will bring together the diverse parks sector to drive parks forward.

Why Attend?

  • Engage in insightful discussions with industry experts.
  • Connect with professionals, researchers, students, and fellow enthusiasts.
  • Explore new ideas, innovative practices, and emerging trends in the field of parks, protected areas, and open spaces.

To book your stay at the Wyndham Edmonton Hotel & Conference Centre, please use one of the following options:

Phone:

  • Local: 780-437-6010 (Option 0)
  • Toll-Free: 1-877-999-3223
  • Group Name: Alberta Recreation and Parks Association
  • Booking Code: 031826ALB

Online Booking:
Reserve your room here

Room TypePrice (Room Rate Only)
1 King w/pullout$145
Queen Executive Suite$195
King Jet-Tub Suite$245

Individual reservations can be cancelled without penalty up to 24 hours prior to arrival. Booking early is encouraged!

Join us at the 2026 Parks Forum Trade Show, taking place March 18–20, 2026, at the Wyndham Hotel in Edmonton, AB. This is a unique opportunity to connect with recreation and parks professionals from across Western Canada, including municipal, provincial, and national representatives.

Why Exhibit or Sponsor?

  • Showcase your products and services to 100–150 delegates.
  • Network with decision-makers across all levels of government.
  • Build brand visibility and establish meaningful connections within the sector.

Trade Show Registration

Reserve your booth and secure your spot at the Forum. Booths are limited, so early registration is recommended.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Amplify your presence with one of our sponsorship packages. Options include:

  • Event Sponsor: Maximum visibility across conference communications and signage.
  • Session Sponsor: Highlight your organization during a key presentation or workshop.
  • Meal Sponsor: Connect directly with delegates during meal breaks and networking events.

For more information, please contact Caleb Boorse

For any questions, please contact: Benjamin Jonah, bjonah@arpaonline.ca or Caleb Boorsecboorse@arpaonline.ca