Convention Information & FAQs
What is an NA Convention?
Q. So what is a Convention anyway?
A. A Narcotics Anonymous convention is a multiple day event that brings together addicts from all walks of life for the common purpose of carrying, hearing and celebrating the NA message. This function can be hosted by an Area, Region or World Services.
Q. What happens at a convention?
A. There are a variety of activities that take place at a convention, all centered around recovery and living the NA way of life.
Friday and Saturday night main speakers
Topic-based speaker workshops
Marathon meetings (regular NA meetings held overnight)
Men’s and women’s meetings
Dinner banquet and spiritual breakfast
There are also a range of on- and off-site entertainment options. These may include dances, comedy shows, live music, golf outings, shopping, city tours, and more.
Q. Who runs the convention?
A. A convention is developed, coordinated and hosted by a Convention Body committee on behalf of an Area, Region or World Services. The Convention Body is comprised of several subcommittees, each of which is responsible for a specific function, such as fundraising, merchandise, registration, operations, etc. It takes many hours of planning and hard work to have a successful convention.
How much does it cost?
Q. What does it cost to register?
A. Each Convention Body committee sets its own price for both the convention registration cost and for registration packages that include hotel rooms, meals, entertainment, etc. Check with the Convention Body in your Area for this information.
Q. I don’t have any money to attend. Can I still come?
A. If you’re a newcomer with 90 days or less, and you can’t afford to attend the convention, talk with a registration subcommittee member at the Registration table when you arrive. Typically, you’ll receive a FREE newcomer’s package.
Q. Will I have to pay for food?
A. Food is often available for purchase in restaurants and cafes at the convention center or facility where the convention is being held. You can also purchase tickets for any meals being offered during the convention, such as a banquet dinner or spiritual breakfast. Many people choose to eat a meal or two off-site in between banquets and workshops.
Will I have fun?
Q. What other activities are there besides speakers and workshops?
A. An NA convention is a great place to experience the fun you can have in recovery! This is where you don’t need a drink or drug in you to enjoy yourself on the dance floor, laugh until your sides hurt at a comedy show, or indulge in a late-night, make-your-own-sundae ice-cream hour. The convention might also offer a tour of the city you're in, or a local shopping trip. You’ll also have time to fellowship with friends both old and new – and make lasting memories with other people who are just like you.
Q. What is the clean time countdown I keep hearing about?
A. The clean time countdown gives every person in the room an opportunity to be recognized for their clean time. As each year clean is announced, people with that much time stand up, dance around and celebrate while others clap, hoot and holler for them. The countdown goes by year starting around 50 years clean, all the way down to one year clean. Then the countdown shifts to the keytag milestones - 9, 6, 3 months and 30 days clean. Finally, cleantime is announced one day at a time for 29 days or less, until the person with less than 24 hours is recognized. The closer the countdown gets to the newcomer, the louder and more excited the room gets. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
What if...
Q. What if I don't have much clean time or a sponsor yet?
A. There are no pre-requisites to attend. All you need is the desire to stay clean.
Q. What if I'm not sure I'm an addict?
A. Simply come with an open mind. You may hear something that you identify with, or meet people who can answer your questions.
Q. What if I used the day of the convention?
A. You’re still welcome to come. We ask only that you don’t bring any drugs or paraphernalia with you to the event.
Q. What if I feel uncomfortable and want to leave?
A. You can come and go as you please throughout the event.
Who and what can I bring?
Q. Do I need to bring anything?
A. You may want to have money on hand for merchandise – such as t-shirts, hoodies, NA jewelry and other NA items – along with raffle tickets, speaker CDs and food.
Q. Can I bring my significant other? He/she isn't an addict?
A. Yes. Partners, family members or any other support people in your life are welcome to attend. They can register in advance or at the door.
Q. Can I bring my children?
A. Some conventions have special activities and child care available for younger children while you enjoy the convention. Check with the Convention Registration chair in your area for more information.
​
Q. What should I wear?
A. There’s no dress code at a convention, but the facility where the event is being held may have basic requirements such as shoes and a shirt. Additionally, it’s a good idea to refrain from wearing any clothing that promotes alcohol and/or drugs. Some people dress up for the banquets, others like to wear convention t-shirts and hoodies. The choice is up to you.
Where can I stay?
Q. Can I stay overnight?
A. Absolutely! There are typically a block of rooms reserved at the facility where the convention is being held or at a nearby hotel for a special, reduced rate. Be sure to mention that you are attending the convention to get the discounted rate. Or, feel free to make reservations at the hotel/motel of your choice.
​
For more information contact a member of the Convention committee!