ANAHEIM, Calif.—In little more than a week, the American Academy of Optometry is set to host Academy 2026 Anaheim at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 30 through October 3, 2026. Bringing together vision science experts, researchers, and eyecare leaders, the conference offers over 300 hours of continuing education along with cutting-edge research and clinical findings to elevate patient care. Attendees can tailor their learning through a diverse selection of program offerings and educational formats. Registration is currently open for the annual event.
“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.”
A featured highlight of this year’s meeting is the Plenary Session, titled Insights to Action: Research Redefining Clinical Practice Today, taking place Wednesday, September 30. This session will bring together leaders from Academy Sections and Special Interests Groups, (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.
Education highlights include the following:
More than 300 hours of continuing education.
Scientific papers and posters showcasing the latest research and interesting 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 to enhance your 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.
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.
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.
Academy 2026 Anaheim will feature three reception events in the exhibit hall designed for networking:
Welcome Reception: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 5:00 – 7:30 p.m., featuring food and drinks.
Attendee Reception: Thursday, Oct. 1, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., focused on reconnecting with colleagues and visiting exhibitors.
Closing Reception: Friday, Oct. 2, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., a new event to conclude the exhibit experience.
The updated 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.