2006 NFDA Convention & Expo: New Date, New Location

After much careful and thoughtful deliberation, NFDA has decided to relocate the 2006 Convention & Expo from New Orleans, La., to Philadelphia, Penn. This was not a decision easily reached, but weighing the needs and safety of convention attendees and exhibitors, NFDA decided to change locations for 2006, with a commitment to return to New Orleans in the future. NFDA staff are currently working with New Orleans convention officials to negotiate when such a date might be feasible.

"As funeral directors and caregivers, our focus is to help families and communities rebuild after tragedy," said NFDA President Bob Biggins, CFSP, CPC. "Our concern for our members, suppliers and convention staff and their potential risks weighed heavily on this decision. We look forward to continued dialogue with New Orleans on a timely return to this exciting city to share in their rebirth."

The 2006 NFDA Convention & Expo, our 125th annual gathering, will be held October 15-18 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (PCC) in Philadelphia, a historic location for a milestone event. The PCC, located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, is one of a few such major facilities actively integrated into an urban center allowing visitors access to a host of restaurants, shops, cultural institutions and other downtown amenities.

Philadelphia, often referred to as the "cradle of liberty," is full of one-of-a-kind attractions, arts, culture, shopping, and museums and monuments devoted to our nation's birth, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The fifth-largest city in the country, it has become an increasingly popular urban center in the past several years, with an impressive restaurant and nightlife scene, an eclectic array of stores, large and small, and an expansion of the visual and performing arts. While we plan to keep you busy during the day, Philadelphia and its various neighborhoods will offer much to explore in your free time.

The 2005 Convention & Expo was a wonderful success, with attendance up 25%, and we're confident that the 2006 Convention & Expo will be even better. So mark your calendars today and join us for what promises to be a great convention experience. For more information on Philadelphia and the PCC, please visit: http://www.pcvb.org