WHAT
AFTACON 2025 is an annual convention presented by Americans for the Arts in partnership with local host ArtsWave in Cincinnati, OH
WHERE
HYATT REGENCY CINCINNATI
151 West Fifth Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Pricing
To make AFTACON 2025 more accessible in this critical moment for the arts, we’re moving to a Pay-What-You-Can registration model — starting at $0.
Americans for the Arts has secured a discounted group rate at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza for AFTACON attendees. The deadline to book your room is May 21, 2025. After this date, the discounted rate cannot be guaranteed, and room rates will depend on availability. Learn more ›
Schedule
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Wednesday
9AM — 4PM | Pre-CON |
5PM — 6:15PM | Pre-Convention Reception |
Thursday
10AM — 12:15PM | Opening Plenary |
1:15PM — 2:30PM | Breakout Sessions |
3PM — 6PM | ARTventures |
6PM — 7PM | Arts Action Fund Event |
7PM — 10PM | Opening Night Party-in-the-Park |
Friday
9AM — 11AM | Plenary Session |
11AM — 12:15PM | Breakout Sessions |
1:15PM — 2:30PM | Breakout Sessions |
3PM — 6PM | ARTventures |
Saturday
9AM — 10AM | Networking Breakfast |
10AM — 11:15AM | Breakout Sessions |
11:30AM — 12:45PM | Closing Plenary |
2PM | End of Convention |
We are thrilled to announce the breakout session lineup for AFTACON 2025!
The Member Committee has selected 20 sessions exploring six thematic pathways: Cultural Impact, Economic Growth, Educational Development, Social Transformation, Future Innovation, and Civic Action.
ARTVENTURES
AFTACON attendees are invited to join free tours of amazing art and culture venues all over town.
PATHWAYS
AFTACON programming follows six thematic pathways to highlight the transformative power of the arts.
CULTURAL IMPACT
The arts preserve and reflect the stories, values, and traditions that unite us across generations. Through mentorship, cultural tourism, and creative placekeeping, we’ll explore how artists lead communities toward greater understanding, ingenuity, and resilience.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
The arts are a powerful economic engine. In 2022, arts organizations and their audiences generated $151.7 billion in economic activity, supporting 2.6 million jobs and strengthening local economies. Engage in discussions on arts funding, creative entrepreneurship, and empowering artists to build sustainable careers.
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Arts education is not a luxury —it’s a necessity. By nurturing imagination, critical thinking, and collaboration, the arts equip learners of all ages to tackle real-world challenges. Explore how arts education fosters equity, ignites creativity, and develops the leaders of tomorrow.
SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
Arts and culture are powerful catalysts for social equity and justice. From improving public health to revitalizing neighborhoods, discover how creative cross-sector collaborations can empower communities and deliver inclusive, lasting solutions.
SHAPING THE FUTURE
As we navigate global and local challenges, the arts are a powerful force for innovation. By tackling sustainability, leveraging technology, exploring AI, or advancing arts administration, we can reimagine what’s possible. How can we shape a future where the arts take a central role in promoting well-being, dignity, and innovation?
CIVIC ACTION
These sessions will spotlight how arts organizations can address the federal funding crisis — offering concrete strategies for advocacy, policy change, and creative resistance, in partnership with leading national arts and cultural advocacy organizations.
Membership
When you become a member at Americans for the Arts, you are supporting Equitable Advocacy efforts across the country while connecting to an invaluable network of likeminded professionals.
Become an Americans for the Arts member to get the best rates – join now!