Welcome back to the Kansas City Courier, your go-to guide for the latest news, can’t-miss updates, and insider tips for our 2026 Annual Convention happening on Oct. 3-6 in Kansas City, the stomping grounds of your favorite TV college-football-turned-soccer coach. 

Curious to learn more about what’s on deck? Check out our agenda.

Curated with you (and your team!) in mind, this year’s business education sessions are all about the “how.” This year, go beyond hearing about best practices and discover how to put them into action with lessons learned, real-world examples, and step-by-step guidance from peers who are already doing the work. From enhancing your pharmacy’s offerings to improving workflows and business operations, #NCPA2026 will give you practical takeaways you can bring home and put to work.

Explore this year’s business education sessions.

Additional details and session information to come.

Something new is coming to the #NCPA2026 Expo Hall! As you explore this year’s exhibits, keep an eye out for our new “how-to booths,” designed to give you even more opportunities to connect, ask questions, and learn from your peers.

Whether you’re looking to navigate Medicare and compliance requirements, maximize the programs and services you already offer, explore new revenue opportunities, or expand into areas like long-term care and wellness, there’s a how-to booth for you. Stop by for practical tips, real-world insights, and answers you can take back to your pharmacy and put into action.

Stay tuned for more details on the “how-to” topics you’ll find in the Expo Hall.

We have secured exclusive, discounted hotel blocks just for our attendees, and this year, we have two premier options available for housing: the Loews Kansas City Hotel for $269 a night and Kansas City Marriott Downtown for $219 a night.

To secure our special hotel rates, you must register for the convention before you can book your hotel room. The deadline to book your hotel is Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. CT.

Bonus: Pharmacists who register by the housing deadline will be entered into a drawing for complimentary registrations to all three of NCPA’s 2027 largest meetings. That's a $2,800 value!

Already registered? You’re automatically entered. If not, don’t miss your chance — book now before the Sept. 11 deadline.

Register and book now.

The conversations don’t stop when the sessions end. Join us for two unique reception experiences that combine networking, entertainment, and a taste of Kansas City.

Opening Night Reception: Backyard BBQ Reimagined

Kick off the first night of our annual convention with an evening of great food, meaningful connections, and laid-back hospitality. Our Opening Night Reception, sponsored by McKesson, brings the charm of a backyard BBQ together with an elevated culinary experience, creating the perfect setting to reconnect with colleagues, meet new peers, and celebrate the pharmacy profession. Plus, there will be a build-your-own BBQ rub station presented by the Museum of BBQ.

Monday Night Mix and Mingle: Made in Kansas City Marketplace

Celebrate the conclusion of an inspiring convention with a vibrant evening that showcases the creativity, craftsmanship, and flavors that make Kansas City unique. The Made in Kansas City Marketplace transforms our closing reception into a lively gathering of local artisans, specialty makers, and culinary favorites, offering attendees an authentic taste of the city’s entrepreneurial spirit. Exchange information with your new friends and connections while enjoying live music from Lost Wax, a mash-up party band bringing high-energy hits to keep the celebration going all night. Sponsored by GeriMed and WSPC.

Don’t miss your chance to participate in two exciting opportunities at #NCPA2026! Today, Aug. 13, is the deadline to reserve your space for the Community Pharmacy Residency and Fellowship Showcase and apply for the Innovation in Community Practice Poster Symposium, both taking place Oct. 4. 

Connect your residency or fellowship program with pharmacy students interested in community practice, or share innovative ideas and practice advancements with pharmacists and student pharmacists through peer-to-peer learning. 

Reserve your space at the Community Pharmacy Residency and Fellowship Showcase. 

Apply now for the Community Practice Poster Symposium.

Why wait for convention to begin? Get a head start on your #NCPA2026 experience with one (or more) of our pre-convention workshops on Oct. 1-2. Whether you or your team are looking to take the next step toward pharmacy ownership, put AI to work in your operations, explore LTC at home, or expand your existing LTC services, these in-depth sessions offer practical training, expert insights, and actionable strategies you can put to work as soon as you return to your pharmacy.

Secure your spot for one of our upcoming workshops.

Please note: To sign up for pre-convention courses, you must register through the convention registration process, even if you’re not attending the full convention. Separate registration fees apply.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Kansas City Convention Center, the Power and Light District is a premier destination for world-class restaurants, lively bars, and exciting entertainment, all in one place. And as an #NCPA2026 attendee, you can save while you explore! Look for the NCPA window cling at participating locations and show your convention badge to receive 15 percent off your purchase. 

Learn more about the Power and Light District.

Curious about who’ll be on the expo floor? See the up-to-date lineup!