OPA 70th Annual Parks Education Forum

September 17–18, 2026Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel & Conference Centre & Candlewood Suites

Get Ready to Learn, Connect, and Be Inspired

Join municipal parks professionals and industry vendors from across Ontario for two energizing days of hands-on learning, meaningful connections, and fresh ideas you can bring back to your community.

Thursday, September 17 – Outdoor Experience

11:00 a.m. – Park Meetup + Lunch Kick things off outdoors in a beautiful Burlington park. Enjoy a hosted lunch while networking with peers and exploring live vendor demonstrations in a real park setting—interactive, practical, and engaging.

1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Vendor Showcase Vendors take the spotlight with dedicated time to showcase products and equipment in action. Expect creative setups and plenty of opportunities to explore solutions tailored to municipal needs.

5:00 p.m. – Meet & Greet Reconnect at the Holiday Inn for a relaxed meet-and-greet with attendees and vendors. Afterward, enjoy Burlington’s vibrant dining scene at your leisure.

Friday, September 18 – Education & Insights

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

8:45 a.m. – Welcome Remarks Opening greetings from the City of Burlington.

9:00 a.m. – Featured Speaker: Michelle Clarke Founder of Next Gen Grit, Michelle brings practical strategies for navigating change and integrating AI into everyday work—expect an interactive session with real-world takeaways.

10:00 a.m. – Break

10:15 a.m. – Industry Roundtable Join a moderated discussion led by OPA President Gene Matthews—share insights and hear perspectives from across the sector.

11:15 a.m. – Leadership Session: What Makes a Great LeaderExplore the qualities and approaches that define effective leadership in today’s environment.

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

12:45 p.m. – OPA Awards & Prize Draw Celebrate achievements across the sector—and maybe win a prize.

1:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker (Topic to be announced)

2:15 p.m. – Break

2:30 p.m. – Looking Ahead Be part of the conversation shaping future OPA Forums.

3:00 p.m. – Closing Remarks Wrap up with final thoughts from President Gene Matthews.

Register Early

Spaces are limited for both municipal delegates and vendors.

Register Now:https://ontarioparksassociation.wildapricot.org/event-6677941

Accommodations

Candlewood Suites (adjoined to Holiday Inn) Available: September 16–18, 2026

Room Rate: $176/night (1 King or 2 Queen beds)13% tax & 4% MAT

Breakfast not includedComplimentary parking & Wi-Fi

Booking Deadline: August 15, 2026

(Book early to secure availability and group rate)

Cancellation Policy:Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours prior to check-in to avoid a one-night charge.

How to Book

Online:Use the dedicated reservation link (rates pre-loaded)

Click here to book your stay

Be sure to select the correct check-in and check-out dates before searching

By Phone: 905-639-4443Ask for Candlewood Suites reservations and reference:Ontario Parks Association – Group Code “PAR”

Two days. Real connections. Practical ideas.We’ll see you in Burlington.