2026 Conference Schedule

October 15–17, 2026

Join the American Horticultural Therapy Association for three days of learning, connection, and community in San Francisco, CA.

Conference at a Glance

Theme

Thriving in the Grove

This year's conference brings us together in California, a state shaped by resilience. Its landscapes embody the strength, renewal, and adaptability at the core of our work. This year’s conference invites us to explore how horticultural therapy helps individuals and communities grow, heal, and thrive.

Dates

October 15–17, 2026

Keynote Speaker

Jennifer Jewell

Host of the podcast Cultivating Place, author of Earth in Her Hands, and What We Sow

Conference Hotel (Thu–Fri base)

Marriott Union Square

Thursday Tour

Alcatraz Island & Historic Gardens

Saturday Venue

San Francisco County Fair Building at the San Francisco Botanical Garden

Locations

Thursday, October 15

Rooted in Place

Logistics Highlights:

  • You’ll meet at a designated spot for the Alcatraz ferry (time and meeting location to be confirmed).
  • Plan for walking, stairs, and outdoor conditions; layers and comfortable shoes recommended.
  • Reception dress: “conference casual.”


Morning & Early Afternoon – Alcatraz Gardens Tour

  • Guided tour of the historic Alcatraz Gardens
  • Presentation by Shelagh Fritz, Senior Program Manager, Alcatraz & Black Point Historic Gardens
  • Focus on: stewardship, resilience, and public garden care


Late Afternoon / Evening – Welcome Reception

  • Location: Marriott Union Square
  • Welcome reception with light refreshments
  • Moth Hour storytelling event to open the conference in community

Friday, October 16

Voices & Vision

Logistics

  • All Friday sessions will take place at the Marriott Union Square.
  • Registration/check-in and badge pick-up will be available at the hotel.
  • Breaks and lunch options will be available nearby (onsite or local cafés—details coming soon).


Morning

  • Keynote Address Jennifer Jewell, Cultivating Place
  • Opening remarks and welcome


Midday–Afternoon

  • Concurrent sessions: presentations, panels, and workshops
  • Awards and association meetings
  • Time to connect with peers, programs, and partners

Saturday, October 17

Thriving Together

Logistics:

  • Full day at SF Botanical Garden & SF County Fair Building
  • Main Conference Hub: SF County Fair Building within Golden Gate Park.
  • The exhibit hall, some sessions, and gathering spaces will be indoors; tours and closing circle will be outdoors.
  • Expect walking on garden paths and uneven surfaces. Please wear supportive shoes.
  • Plan for variable weather.


Morning

  • Sessions featuring presenters connected with Golden Gate Gardens
  • Workshops and presentations in and around the SF County Fair Building


Midday–Afternoon

  • Exhibit Hall featuring:
  • CA and international horticultural therapy programs
  • Organizations, resources, and services
  • Plants, materials, and conference swag


Late Afternoon – Closing Circle

  • Guided garden tours in the SF Botanical Garden

*Closing circle in the Redwood Grove, led by Jennifer Jewell*

Sunday, October 18

Voices & Vision

Logistics & Events

  • Details coming soon!