Top 10 tips for a great annual conference experience
By Cal Cities Education Staff
The 2025 Annual Conference and Expo is almost here! To help ensure you get the most out of your time in Long Beach, we’ve compiled a few tips for first-timers and conference veterans alike.
1. Review the conference schedule and plan your must-see stops
There’s never a dull moment at the annual conference! If you’re attending with a group, divide the educational sessions up to maximize the conference’s benefits. Remember to bring a stack of business cards! You never know who you might meet.
If this is your first time attending the conference — or if you need a refresher — join Cal Cities staff for an attendee orientation at 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 8 before the official conference kick-off.
To view the conference details online, check out the online program. You can read all about the sessions by clicking the session title or “show details.” Review session materials before the conference so that you’re ready to engage with the speakers and get the most out of the conference. Sessions are uploaded as they come in, so please check back for updates.
2. Know when and where to pick up your badge (And wear it!)
The annual conference officially starts at 1:15 p.m., but registration opens at 8:00 a.m. Our advice? Come early and beat the crowds! Registration is in the convention center foyer. (Look for a line of people near the giant stairs!) It’s also the best place for answers to any questions you may have on-site.
If you registered for a pre-conference event, double-check your email for details on how and where to pick up your badge before the conference. Give yourself extra time to pick up your conference badge before arriving at your first event.
Don’t forget: Wear your badge at all times during the conference! If you don’t have your badge, security may not let you enter the convention center!
3. Set up your mobile app in advance!
The Cal Cities mobile app has everything you need to know about the conference. You can view the full program, build a custom schedule, import events into your calendar, view exhibitor information, and more. Find the Cal Cities mobile app by searching “League of California Cities" or “Cal Cities” in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
Already have the app? Make sure to download the conference guide! Just select “Find Guides” on the bottom right of your screen and search for “2025 Annual Conference and Expo” to start building your personal conference schedule.
Be sure to allow push notifications to receive timely updates at the conference!
4. Plan your route to the Convention Center
Conference shuttles are available for attendees staying at the Hilton Long Beach, Residence Inn Long Beach Downtown, and the Best Western Plus Hotel. Courtyard by Marriott guests should plan to walk to the Best Western for pickup. To view the full list of shuttle times, review Cal Cities’ shuttle schedule.
If you are planning to drive to the convention center, note that the main parking lot along Shoreline Drive can be accessed via Linden Avenue. Visit the Long Beach Convention Center webpage for directions and additional parking options.
5. Connect with peers at your department meeting or regional event
The annual conference is a chance to wrap up old business and prepare for the year ahead. During department meetings, city officials in similar professions gather to discuss pressing issues, hear timely legislative updates, and brainstorm solutions for their work on unified department goals. Check the conference schedule for the exact time and locations of all department meetings.
Want to deepen regional connections? Many of Cal Cities’ regional divisions meet during the annual conference to share and reflect on issues impacting their region. For information about division events, review the conference schedule or contact your regional public affairs manager.
6. Find exhibitors and Cal Cities Partners in the expo
Don't forget about the second half of the conference — the expo floor! With over 250 exhibitors, this year’s expo floor will be brimming with opportunities to discover city-focused services and organizations for a wide range of mundane and unusual city challenges.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the winners of this year’s Helen Putnam Awards for Excellence. The annual program honors and promotes the outstanding work of member cities throughout the state that have made unique contributions to community residents and businesses, which have resulted in lower costs or more effective delivery of services.
You will also find the Cal Cities Pavilion in our expo hall. Stop by to say hello and learn how to get involved!
7. Join the CitiPAC Denim and Diamonds fundraiser
The 2025 theme for the annual CitiPAC fundraiser is “Denim and Diamonds,” so pack what you need to sparkle! Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at Ovation Square. Everyone is welcome, and we hope you will consider making a donation.
8. Make sure your city is ready for the General Assembly
Each year, members can propose new Cal Cities legislative policies through the annual resolution process. Cal Cities did not receive any general resolutions by the Aug. 9 deadline, but petitioned resolutions may still be introduced during the conference. The General Assembly will convene on Friday, Oct. 10, at 8:30 a.m., if a petitioned resolution is introduced and qualified.
9. Review the Cal Cities event and Meeting policies
Cal Cities is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants and staff at Cal Cities events and meetings. Please take a few minutes to review the event and meeting policies, and help us maintain a safe and respectful environment for all our attendees!
10. Pack the essentials!
Last, but not least: The annual conference includes a lot of walking, and conference room temperatures may vary. Pack comfortable shoes, chargers for mobile devices, and a jacket, as conference rooms may be cold to some.
Reminder! Online registration closes Sept. 26!
Full conference registration for city officials is $725 and includes access to general and concurrent sessions, the expo, CitiPAC, and diversity caucus receptions, Wednesday’s host city reception, and some meals. Registration often sells out prior to the deadline, so be sure to sign up now if you haven’t already!
Cal Cities strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Event Registration Specialist Megan Dunn. Every effort will be made to honor requests submitted.
Scammers may contact you claiming to be the housing bureau/service for the conference. Cal Cities does not use a housing service. Only trust emails from @calcities.org or the official hotel you book with.