WINTER PARK, Fla.—The American Academy of Optometry has announced that registration and housing are now open for Academy 2026 Anaheim, to be held September 30-October 3, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif. The event, which brings together leaders in eyecare, research, and vision science, includes more than 300 hours of continuing education, along with new research and clinical insights designed to advance patient care and will offer attendees the opportunity to customize their experience through a wide range of educational formats and special programs, the announcement said.
“The Academy meeting is more than an event; it’s a celebration of the people and ideas that move our profession forward,” said academy president, Jeffrey Walline, OD, Ph.D., FAAO. “When we come together in Anaheim, we strengthen our community, elevate our science, and reaffirm our commitment to lifelong learning. Register now and join us for an unforgettable Academy 2026 Anaheim.”
According to the announcement, education highlights at Academy 2026 Anaheim will include the following:
More than 300 hours of continuing education.
Scientific papers and posters showcasing the latest research and case reports.
Section and special interest group (SIG) symposia addressing specialized and relevant areas of focus.
Hands-on workshops and intimate academy classroom exchange (ACE) courses available to enhance the education experience.
Advanced training opportunities in lasers, surgical procedures and aesthetics, with each offering 16 hours of CE as well as a certification in these specialized areas.
A featured highlight of this year’s meeting is the plenary session, titled “Insights to Action: Research Redefining Clinical Practice Today,” which will take place Wednesday, September 30, the announcement said. This session will bring together leaders from Academy Sections and SIGs to present landmark studies that are reshaping clinical care. “Through concise and high-impact presentations, this plenary session translates cutting-edge evidence into meaningful clinical insights, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to advancing patient care through research driven practice,” the announcement said.
Another key session highlighted in the announcement is the Monroe J. Hirsch Research Symposium, titled “Oculomics—Leveraging Ocular Biomarkers to Assess Systemic Health,” which will explore how advances in ocular imaging and diagnostics are enabling earlier detection of systemic diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions.
The meeting will also feature hundreds of scientific program papers and poster presentations, including the hot topic CE paper sessions, offering timely insights into emerging research and clinical trends.
The abstract submission window for the scientific program will be open May 1 to May 29, 2026, to both members and nonmembers. Guidelines for submission can be accessed here with the final program schedule to be announced in late July.
In addition to the continuing education opportunities, attendees will have access to the exhibit hall Wednesday through Friday, with more than 170 companies showcasing the latest technologies and innovations in eyecare. Additional opportunities to engage with industry partners during breakfast, lunch and dinner sessions will also be scheduled throughout the meeting.
The Academy 2026 Anaheim Program Preview provides an overview of meeting highlights, educational offerings, and attendee resources, including information on contracted hotels, childcare services, and things to do in Anaheim.
For more information or to access registration and housing, click here. Early bird registration rates will be available through July 29, 2026.