Welcome to the Big Easy Bulletin, your guide to all the networking and education opportunities that we're bringing to the 2025 NCPA Annual Convention in New Orleans, Oct. 18-21 — and how to spend your off-hours in the city.

#NCPA2025 kicks off on Saturday. Today, we’re focusing on the information you need to know before you step foot into the convention center.

Not registered yet?

If you haven’t been able to register yet, don’t worry — Attendees can register in-person until Oct. 21 at noon CT. We also offer pharmacists the chance to purchase one and two-day passes for those unable to step away from the pharmacy for the whole length of the convention.

For information on registration rates, click here. You can get started registering here.

Tools to make the most of your time in NOLA

We’ve got a bunch of online resources you can use to figure out what to go to and when — as well as some things to look out for when you arrive.

Here are some resources to get ready for your time in Columbus:

Our Know Before You Go guide explains the basics of how to navigate the convention and answers the most frequently asked questions.
Our Schedule-At-A-Glance will provide you with a quick overview of all the events and opportunities we’ll have through the convention.
Our interactive Program Guide will give you a more in-depth understanding of all the activities available and let you plan ahead by building your own agenda for each day of the convention.
Our Expo Hall floor plan will help you navigate our packed exhibition space, featuring over 230 exhibitors.
You can find links to even more on the convention website, including information on the Innovation in Community Practice Poster Symposium, the Community Pharmacy Residency and Fellowship Showcase, and our receptions, general sessions, and NCPA Foundation activities.

Live from the convention floor

Like our podcast, “Independent Rx Forum?” Good news: We’re broadcasting live, with video, from the #NCPA2025 floor!

Catch the “Independent Rx Forum” podcast broadcast directly from the convention floor on Sunday, Oct. 19 from noon-2 p.m. CT and Monday, Oct. 20 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. CT. NCPA’s John Beckner will speak with several experts about topics covered during the convention, including medical billing, vaccines, and social media promotion. They’ll also talk with NCPA President Jeff Harrell and incoming NCPA President Kristen Riddle. The live podcast will be streamed across Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Whether you’re tuning in from afar or stopping by to watch the talks live, don’t miss these insightful conversations. Listen to our previous podcast episodes here.

Looking for things to do around the city? Start here

New Orleans is one of the most unique cities on earth, offering cultural experiences you can’t find anywhere else. That’s why every week we’ve been sharing something to do in your off-hours. If you’d like a whole menu of places to choose from, pick up this month’s issue of America's Pharmacist®, the official magazine of NCPA. In it, we give a rundown of things to eat, drink, and do to make this trip unforgettable.

Wander through the French Quarter checking out the historic architecture, museums, restaurants and bars, or check out the other shops, markets, and museums right next to the convention venue. Alternatively, hop on the streetcar at the stop right next door and ride up to another lively spot like Frenchman Street! All of these and more are covered in this month’s issue.

NCPA members can read the October issue here.

On a bittersweet note, this will be the last Big Easy Bulletin. We launched this email newsletter all the way back in June to share information to ensure attendees have the smoothest convention experience possible, and we accomplished that mission.

If you’re pining for more emails from NCPA (and why wouldn’t you be), check out qAM, our weekday email bringing you the latest on our advocacy for community pharmacies, education opportunities, and industry developments. Register for qAM here.

Thank you to our 2025 sponsors