For Directors and Assistant/Deputy Directors of Parks and Recreation in Virginia

Photo Credits: Kate Simon Photography, Visit Staunton

March 26-27, 2026 

Building Connections in Historic Staunton

Register now!

We are so excited to invite you to the 2026 Virginia Parks and Recreation Directors Conference, happening in the beautiful and historic city of Staunton, Virginia! This retreat is designed specifically for Virginia’s dedicated parks and recreation Directors and Assistant/Deputy Directors.

Event Highlights

  • Meaningful Connections: Our social and educational opportunities are thoughtfully arranged in small groups to encourage real conversation and high-quality networking, not just large room lectures.

  • Mastermind Peer Support: These unique Mastermind group sessions are a key part of the experience, giving you thoughtful and knowledgeable consideration for your most pressing professional questions.

  • Learn from Virginia's Leaders: Both experienced and newer Directors will be sharing their insights into the challenges we face across our agencies. You will leave feeling refreshed and equipped with actionable ideas!

  • Optional Pre-Conference: We are offering an optional experience this year to explore the Blue Ridge Tunnel and enjoy a delicious local barbecue lunch at VRPS award-winning Sunset Park in Waynesboro before the main conference begins. It is a wonderful way to kick off our time together and connect in a relaxed outdoor setting.

  • Unique Experiences: This isn't a regular conference where the learning only happens in a hotel ballroom. You'll walk away with memories - the laughs with colleagues, the heartfelt advice you will give an receive, and the fun experiences you'll have exploring the beauty and character of a Virginia community!

This is a focused, two-day retreat for a small group of leaders. If you are a Director or Deputy/Assistant Director in Virginia, we hope you will join us in Staunton at the Hotel 24 South on Thursday, March 26, and Friday, March 27, 2026.

Hotel Information: https://www.hotel24south.com/

Room rate: $110/ night

Reserve your room here: 
https://res.windsurfercrs.com/ibe/details.aspx?propertyid=14254&nights=1&checkin=03/26/2026&group=9760177&lang=en-us&adults=1&childAges=

 Sponsors click here for more information.

Registration and Pricing Information for Attendees

Please remember this event is only open to Directors and Assistant/Deputy Directors of Parks and Recreation in Virginia. Registration space is limited, and attendance will be confirmed by VRPS staff.

Early Registration Rate

We are pleased to offer a great value for those who register early!

Attendee Category Conference Only Rate Conference + Optional Pre-Conference* Deadline
VRPS Members $199 $249 February 28, 2026
Nonmembers $245 $295 February 28, 2026

 

 

Standard Registration Rate

For those registering after the early bird deadline, the standard rates will apply.

Attendee Category Conference Only Rate Conference + Optional Pre-Conference* Effective Date
VRPS Members $235 $285 March 1, 2026
Nonmembers $280 $330 March 1, 2026

 

2026 Virginia Parks and Recreation Directors Conference Schedule

Thursday, March 26

Optional Pre-conference Activity: Experience Virginia's Blue Ridge Tunnel and Incredible Sunset Park Views

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Board Bus and Travel to Blue Ridge Tunnel Parking Area 

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Blue Ridge Tunnel Exploration and Return to Parking Area

1:00 PM – 1:15 PM Travel to Sunset Park, Waynesboro 

1:15 PM – 2:15 PM BBQ Lunch at Sunset Park, Waynesboro

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM Travel back to Hotel 24 South

2:45 PM – 3:30 PM Check in & Refresh at Hotel 24 South

Conference Program Begins

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Experience Downtown Historic Staunton: Small Group Exploration (included in Conference Registration)
Options include (while available): 

  • Guided Tours of Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Homeplace (any history lover will relish this tour!)
  • Backstage Tour of American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse the world’s 1st recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor playhouse-Don’t miss the Picasso inside!)
  • Wand Making- Every year Staunton welcomes over 30,000 wizards, witches, and muggles during Queen City Mischief & Magic. Get your creative juices flowing by making your very own personality wand, taught by Professor McGonagall (Harry Potter lovers, get excited!). 
  • Charcuterie Making Workshop- A hands-on charcuterie workshop that blends creativity, collaboration, and a little indulgence. Guided by a local expert and Accordia owner, teams will design and build their own boards while connecting, unwinding, and learning a skill they can enjoy long afterwards

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Reception & Welcome at Hotel 24 South Colonnade Room

6:00 PM – 7:45 PM Dine Around in Downtown Staunton

7:45 PM – 10:00 PM Mastermind Group Sessions at Hotel 24 South Shenandoah Rooms

Friday, March 27

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Breakfast at Hotel 24 South Colonnade Room

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Innovate: Lightning Presentations at Hotel 24 South Shenandoah Rooms

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Hotel Check Out at Hotel 24 South

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Issues of Import Breakout Sessions at Hotel 24 South Shenandoah Rooms

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch at Hotel 24 South Colonnade Room

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Issues of Import Breakout Sessions at Hotel 24 South Shenandoah Rooms

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM Closing Remarks and Departure at Hotel 24 South Shenandoah Rooms

Register Now!