October 8, 2026 - October 8, 2026
Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
Time: 8:30am – 12:00pm ET
Location: Online
NETTRA 2026 Annual Conference, Call for Proposals
Theme: Showcasing the Northeast through Special Events
The Northeast Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (NETTRA) is now accepting proposals for the 2026 NETTRA Annual Conference, taking place virtually on October 8, 2026.
This year’s conference explores the theme, Showcasing the Northeast through Special Events, examining how major events shape destinations, drive visitation, strengthen communities, and elevate the tourism profile of the Northeast United States.
Inspired by the United States hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the Olympic Games in 2028, the conference will bring together tourism researchers, practitioners, students, and industry partners to share ideas, research, and practical insights at the intersection of tourism and events.
Event Details
- Date: October 8, 2026
- Time: 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Eastern
- Location: Virtual
- Proposal Deadline: August 14, 2026
Call for Proposals
NETTRA is seeking submissions in three categories.
1. Keynote Presentation
NETTRA is seeking an engaging keynote speaker whose presentation highlights the relationship between tourism and special events, with an emphasis on the Northeast United States.
- 45-minute presentation
- 15-minute Q&A
- 250-word abstract required
Please submit a 250-word abstract for this proposal
2. Roundtable Discussions
Lead an interactive discussion exploring emerging issues, best practices, innovative research, or practical challenges related to tourism and special events.
Roundtables are designed to encourage conversation and knowledge sharing among participants.
- 60-minute facilitated discussion
- 250-word abstract required
Please submit a 250-word abstract for this proposal
3. Student Poster Competition
Undergraduate and graduate students are invited to showcase original travel and tourism research.
Eligible submissions should either:
- Be submitted by students affiliated with institutions in the NETTRA region, or
- Focus on research related to the Northeast United States or the conference theme.
Poster requirements:
- PDF format
- 24″ × 18″ landscape (4:3 aspect ratio)
A review committee will select the five finalists, who will each present their work during the conference.
Each finalist will receive:
- Five-minute presentation
- Two-minute audience Q&A
Conference attendees will vote to determine the winning presentation.
The winning student will receive a one-year TTRA Student Membership through the NETTRA Chapter.
All submitted posters will be displayed on the NETTRA website, and finalists will have an opportunity to update their posters before the conference.
Please submit a drafted poster for this session in PDF format
Questions?
Questions about the conference or proposal process may be directed to:
Tanner Knorr, Ph.D.
tk****@***ax.edu
Learn more about NETTRA at www.nettra.org.