Convention History
Over 115 years of excellence in English language arts education
Since 1911, the NCTE Annual Convention has been the premier gathering for English language arts educators. Join us in continuing this proud tradition of professional learning, innovation, and community.
Upcoming Conventions
2026 – Philadelphia, PA
“Imagine. Innovate. Inspire.”
November 19–22, 2026
Join us in the City of Brotherly Love for four days of transformative professional learning and inspiration. Philadelphia welcomes NCTE back for an unforgettable Convention experience.
Register for the 2026 Annual Convention
2027 – Chicago, IL
Mark your calendars for next year’s Convention in the Windy City November 18–21. Details coming soon!
Past Conventions
Recent Conventions (2020-2025)
| Year | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Boston, MA | Recent convention |
| 2024 | Columbus, OH | Recent convention |
| 2023 | Columbus, OH | Recent convention |
| 2022 | Anaheim, CA | Return to in-person events |
| 2021 | Virtual | Online convention due to COVID-19 pandemic |
| 2020 | Virtual | Online convention due to COVID-19 pandemic |
2010-2019
| Year | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Baltimore, MD | |
| 2018 | Houston, TX | |
| 2017 | St. Louis, MO | |
| 2016 | Atlanta, GA | |
| 2015 | Minneapolis, MN | |
| 2014 | Washington, DC | |
| 2013 | Boston, MA | |
| 2012 | Las Vegas, NV | |
| 2011 | Chicago, IL | 100th Anniversary Celebration |
| 2010 | Orlando, FL |
2000-2009
| Year | Location |
|---|---|
| 2009 | Philadelphia, PA |
| 2008 | San Antonio, TX |
| 2007 | New York, NY |
| 2006 | Nashville, TN |
| 2005 | Pittsburgh, PA |
| 2004 | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2003 | San Francisco, CA |
| 2002 | Atlanta, GA |
| 2001 | Baltimore, MD |
| 2000 | Milwaukee, WI |
1990-1999
| Year | Location |
|---|---|
| 1999 | Denver, CO |
| 1998 | Nashville, TN |
| 1997 | Detroit, MI |
| 1996 | Chicago, IL |
| 1995 | San Diego, CA |
| 1994 | Orlando, FL |
| 1993 | Pittsburgh, PA |
| 1992 | Louisville, KY |
| 1991 | Seattle, WA |
| 1990 | Atlanta, GA |
The First 79 Years (1911-1989)
From our founding convention in Chicago in 1911 through 1989, NCTE held Annual Conventions in cities across the United States, building a strong tradition of professional learning and community.
Key Milestones
- 1911 – First NCTE Convention held in Chicago, IL
- 1942 – Convention canceled due to World War II
- 1943 – Business meeting only due to wartime restrictions
Throughout these decades, NCTE Conventions served as crucial gathering points for educators to share best practices, debate pedagogical approaches, and advance the profession during times of tremendous social and educational change.
A Legacy of Excellence
For over 115 years, the NCTE Annual Convention has been where English language arts educators come together to learn, share, and grow. From our founding in 1911 through today’s modern, dynamic events, we’ve remained committed to advancing literacy education and supporting teachers.
Join us in continuing this proud tradition. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime member, you’re part of this remarkable legacy.
Did you know? Philadelphia last welcomed NCTE in 2009–and we’re thrilled to return in 2026 to the City of Brotherly Love!