Welcome to IAC26
At the Information Architecture Conference (IAC), we know joining a new community can feel intimidating.
At IAC, you’re part of a global community of professionals shaping how humans connect with technology.
Welcome to the IAC family!
Feeling Nervous About Attending Alone?
We’ve got you.
The IAC community is friendly, inclusive, and eager to meet you.
First-timer activities
Starting before the opening reception and continuing after, we have two events to help you get acquainted with others.
- First-timer orientation – Just before the opening reception on Wednesday evening, we gather first-timers and some long-timers to share tips for making the most of IAC and to make sure you know at least one person before the conference kicks off.
- First-timer dinners – Ahead of the conference, we will organize dinner groups for Wednesday night hosted by long-timers and luminaries of the IA community. These small groups allow you to get to know a few people and prove that everyone here is just a person. More about participating in the dinners.
First-timer activities are intended for attendees who are attending the conference in person for the first time.
What to expect
Every year, attendees form spontaneous lunch and dinner groups – often right in the hotel lobby or online via Discord.
You might also find:
- Museum or architecture walks
- Game nights or karaoke sessions
- Pub crawls or live music events
- Casual chats over coffee or breakfast
- Your people
Most social activities start organically.
If you see a group forming, ask to join—or start your own!
Post a message on our Discord and see who’s interested. Activity on Discord picks up about 2 weeks before the conference starts. Be sure to join the #first-timers channel and make some connections before you get to Philadelphia!
Official Social Events
Our scheduled events are designed to help you connect, learn, and have fun:
Wednesday
- First-Timers Orientation: Tips to get the most from IAC
- Opening Reception: Meet new faces and reconnect with peers
- First-Timers Dinners: Small, hosted groups dine locally — sign-up required
Thursday
- Lunch Topic Tables: Join discussions on UX, content strategy, and IA
- Poster Night: Explore innovative ideas and research
- Acoustic Jam: Bring an instrument or sing along—everyone’s welcome
Friday
- Polar Bear Run: A 5K walk/run to start the day
- Morning Yoga: Stretch, breathe, and focus before sessions
- Game Night: Board games, strategy games, and party favorites
- Karaoke Night: Hosted by our own IAC community members—always a hit!
First-Timer Dinners
This long-standing IAC tradition brings together small groups of newcomers with experienced community members.
Here’s how it works:
- Groups of up to 8 gather after the opening reception.
- Hosts are seasoned IAC attendees—they’ll help you connect with others.
- You’ll share stories, experiences, and ideas over dinner at local restaurants.
Stay Connected
Printed programs and your attendee badge include event details.
For the latest updates and spontaneous meetups:
- Join the IAC Discord – your go-to hub for news, groups, and discussions.
- Follow #IAC56 and @theIACConf on social media.
- Post about lunch, dinner, or coffee meetups – others will join in!
- Tip: Share feedback, ideas, or appreciation with volunteers – they make this event possible.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
There’s no single “right way” to experience IAC. Each person’s journey is unique.
A few tips from returning attendees:
- Pace yourself. Take breaks and recharge when needed.
- Stay at the conference hotel if possible — it’s easier to connect.
- Avoid early flights. Don’t miss the closing plenary — it’s worth it.
- Be curious. Talk to people beyond your role or title.
- Show gratitude. Thank volunteers and staff – they’re all community members, too.
Why People Return
Many attendees come back year after year—and for good reason.
They return to:
- Reignite passion for their work and community
- Discover best practices in information architecture
- Explore ethical and human-centered design topics
- Share insights, research, and case studies
- Reconnect with friends—and make new ones
IAC feels like a reunion, a retreat, and a recharge—all at once.
You’ll leave inspired, informed, and connected to a global community of practice in IA.
See You at IAC!
You belong here, whether this is your first year or your tenth.
You’re part of a community dedicated to building human-centered digital experiences, exploring ethical design, and bridging technology with humanity.
Welcome to IAC – we’re so glad you’re here!