SPECIAL EVENTS

Open throughout the conference, the exhibit hall will include vendors, sponsors, nonprofits, agencies, the CNPS Store, and more.


Stop in to browse what’s new in native plants, network, grab a snack, and stock up on native plant merch—including the official 2026 Conference t-shirt!

Calling all artists and photographers: the CNPS Conference will feature botanic art and photography exhibits to highlight the beauty of California–and the incredible artists who capture it! The art and photography show, which will be on display throughout the conference, will be selected through an application process. Submit your art and photo entries here by December 31, 2025.

Posters will be showcased throughout the conference, highlighting native plant projects, scientific research, community initiatives and beyond.
A dedicated poster session will take place during the opening reception on Thursday evening, at which conference attendees can interact directly with poster presenters.

“I want to be a native plant/I want to grow where they say I can’t”: Rock out with Sage Against the Machine as they play a unique collection of original music that explores native plant conservation and horticulture in song.

Serenade your special species or slam your nemesis invasive! Along with the lyrics to your karaoke hits, a photo of your plant of choice will be projected on the big screen – your chance to croon in plant nerd style. Surely “Stayin’ Alive” will make an appearance somewhere?!

Come see cool native plant tattoos and/or show off your own!
Back by popular demand, the botanical tattoo contest invites attendees to show off their native plant ink. (There’s time to get your first native plant tattoo if you want to enter!) Join the fun as judges determine the winners across several categories. Submit your tattoo here by January 23, 2026.

Come dressed in your fancy duds for a delicious meal and live entertainment. This is a special time to connect with friends old and new at a celebration of the native plant community! The CNPS Celebration will be held onsite at the Riverside Convention Center. Tickets are $60 during early registration, $70 during regular registration, and $100 onsite or for a guest who is not registered for the conference. Spaces are limited. More details to come.

Hold an event at the CNPS Conference while everyone is already together in Riverside. Associated meeting spaces can be reserved for your chapter, business, or organization (based on space availability). The request form for associated meetings is now closed.

Donate items for our raffle! Ideas include high quality outdoor/field gear, event tickets, gift certificates, subscriptions or memberships, hotel nights, artwork, or books. Fill out this form to let us know what you'll be donating!

There are many volunteer opportunities available to support the CNPS Conference. We will advertise volunteer positions and how to register on conference.cnps.org as the event gets closer.

Chapter volunteers are encouraged to attend the conference to represent CNPS and
their local area. Take inspiration and insights back home to share with chapter members
and your community. Additional ways your chapter can support the CNPS Conference:


• Fundraise to sponsor attendees from your area.
• Provide chapter books and merchandise for sale in the CNPS Store.
• Volunteer before or during the conference.
• Become a conference sponsor.
• Share your experience during the conference on social media.