Conferences

The New York State Recreation and Park Society hosts a variety of educational opportunities for members from online programs to conferences, seminars, workshops, and webinars.Two traditional conferences are held annually by NYSPRS: the Downstate Conference in partnership with several associations from the lower regions of New York and the Annual NYSRPS Conference and Expo which travels annual around the state to serve our vast membership.

The New York State Recreation and Park Society Annual Conference

The NYSRPS Annual Conference and Expo is the largest gathering of park, recreation and therapeutic recreation professionals in New York State. With a focus on professional development, the annual conference offers 50+ educational sessions led by dynamic presenters on a variety of relevant recreation topics. An exhibit hall of 50+ booths showcases the latest trends in parks and recreation. The annual conference program includes offsite visits to local attractions and a lively calendar of nighttime socials.

The Downstate Conference

Traditionally celebrated the 2nd week of November, the Downstate Conference is a one day event hosted by the New York State Recreation and Park Society, the New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association, the Westchester Recreation and Park Society, the Hudson Valley Leisure Services Association and the Metropolitan New York Recreation and Park Society. The Downstate Event offers approximately 25 concurrent sessions, exhibit showcase and lunch for an estimated 300 park, recreation and therapeutic professionals; including students.

**The Downstate Conference is cancelled for 2023**