FAQ

Where is this event taking place?

Unlike a typical conference, this year’s event will take place in multiple locations within a short (5-15 minute) walk of one another in downtown Fayetteville. This format was a big hit during our 2025 Gathering in Providence and we’re excited to unleash it again in a new city. Our key locations will include: the Fayetteville Public Library (401 W Mountain St), the Graduate Hotel (70 N East Ave) and more. We will provide detailed maps and signage, and have volunteers on hand to help with wayfinding.

When do I need to arrive and depart?

Most attendees will likely want to arrive in the afternoon on Monday, May 18. Registration will be open at the Fayetteville Public Library by 2pm and the Gathering officially kicks off with an opening night party later that evening. (We may also offer some optional events earlier in the day on Monday and also on Sunday, May 17.) You are welcome to arrive later in the evening on Monday and just grab your badge and registration on Tuesday morning, May 19, as the main sessions will start Tuesday morning. You can depart the evening of May 20.

What’s the dress code?

Wear whatever you like! You’ll probably see people in everything from jeans and tees to suits.

Which meals are provided?

Breakfast and a coffee break will be provided on both Tuesday and Wednesday. You will need to cover your own lunch and dinner throughout the event, as well as drinks at evening events. We will provide a list of area restaurants we suggest for those meals.

Are there any breaks in the schedule when I could hang out with fellow attendees or meet up with others outside of the planned agenda?

Yes. The lunch times will be largely un-programmed and open for whatever you might choose to do. The evenings after 5pm will include some optional activities, but you are encouraged to use that time to meet up with fellow attendees however you wish.

Will Strong Towns’ books be available for purchase? Can Chuck sign my copy of his new book?

We hope so. We’ll let you know more soon.

Will Strong Towns merchandise be available for purchase?

Yes, we do plan to have some merchandise available for purchase at the Fayetteville Library throughout the event. We’ll let you know when we have more information about items and pricing.

Will the sessions be recorded with video and/or audio?

Some sessions may be recorded and released at a later date on the Strong Towns podcast, YouTube or Academy channels, but we can’t make any promises because we’re not sure how the audio and video quality will turn out. With that in mind, if you want to see a session, you’re highly encouraged to attend it live.

How do I get AICP credits for the sessions I attend?

AICP members can earn Certification Maintenance (CM) credits for most of the sessions at the Strong Towns National Gathering. Use your personal electronic log to claim CM credits for the sessions that you attend.

What if I’m attending the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) the week before the Gathering?

We’ll be excited to welcome you to the Gathering if you plan to stay on in Fayetteville. We expect to offer some special optional activities on Sunday, May 17 for those who want to get the Strong Towns party started early!

What if I have a question before or during the event?

Before the event: Get in touch with scarlett@strongtowns.org.
During the event: Head to the Strong Towns registration table in Fayetteville Public Library at any time throughout the event, or find a Strong Towns staff person or volunteer in any of our event spaces. We’ll help you out.

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