ANC26 Opening Event at the NASCAR Hall of Fame
Saturday, July 11: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Kick off ANC26 with a private evening event at the iconic NASCAR Hall of Fame, reserved exclusively for ANC attendees. This high-energy experience gives guests access to one of Charlotte’s signature venues, featuring interactive activities, immersive exhibits, and unique entertainment.
Attendees can explore spaces such as the Great Hall, Hall of Honor, and Inside NASCAR exhibits, along with hands-on experiences including racing simulators, pit crew challenges, and a feature presentation in the High Octane Theater. Entertainment, food and beverage options, and special experiences will be available throughout the evening.
With thousands of attendees expected, this memorable event will set the tone for ANC26—bringing together innovation, connection, and a little friendly competition.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame is adjacent to the Charlotte Convention Center. Attendees will enter through the designated areas on the outdoor Plaza, located at the corner of Martin Luther King Blvd and S Caldwell Street. Those picking up their badge after 7:30 pm can also enter through the Crown Ballroom Foyer in the Convention Center.
Sponsored by
Baseball Night for a Cause at ANC26
ANC26 attendees—and Charlotte‑area locals—are invited to kick off the Annual National Conference with a fun night at the ballpark as the Charlotte Knights take on the Nashville Sounds. Held alongside ANC26, this game offers an easy and enjoyable way to give back while celebrating community, baseball, and school nutrition.
How Your Ticket Gives Back
For every ticket purchased through this offer, $2.20 is donated to the School Nutrition Foundation (SNF), supporting scholarships and professional development opportunities for SNA members.
Game Night Highlights
Gates open: 6:00 p.m.
First pitch: 7:04 p.m.
Grateful Dead Night + Friday Knight Fireworks
Grateful Dead T‑shirt giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Grab your tickets, cheer on the Knights, and help support school nutrition professionals—one game at a time.
No Kid Hungry Small-Group Sessions at ANC26
Make the most of your ANC26 experience by joining one of these exclusive small-group sessions hosted by No Kid Hungry. Designed for school nutrition leaders, these interactive discussions provide practical solutions, fresh ideas, and opportunities to connect with peers facing similar challenges.
Why participate?
- Exchange ideas and best practices with fellow directors and managers.
- Learn proven strategies to strengthen breakfast and summer meal programs.
- Gain practical insights from No Kid Hungry experts.
- Leave with actionable ideas you can implement in your district.
Space is limited to just 20 participants per session to encourage meaningful discussion, so reserve your spot early.
Don't Wait—Seats Are Limited
These sessions are expected to fill quickly. Reserve your spot today and take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn, network, and bring back new ideas to your school nutrition program.
First-Timers Session
Sunday, July 12 | 10:30 am
Is this your first time attending ANC? If so, this informative session will guide you in the right direction to make the most out of the conference. Join the ANC 2026 Program Advisors for a rundown of can’t miss highlights and events and get your who, what, when, where and whys answered for ANC!
Culinary Demonstrations
Sunday, July 12–Tuesday, July 14
There’s nothing more delicious than discovering fresh ways to prepare and serve school meals. Meet with experts who can share culinary secrets and nutrition tips to increase participation at your school. Seating is limited. Check back to learn more details about the dishes planned for this year’s demos.
Star Club Breakfast
Monday, July 13 | 7:30 am
The SNA Star Club is a program for recognizing and thanking members who are working hard to ensure the future of the Association by recruiting new members. This is an invitation-only event and Star Club members must RSVP to attend.
Membership Section Meetings
Sunday, July 12–Tuesday, July 14
These targeted sessions are special “professional learning communities” that allow peers from all over the country to come together to discuss challenges and solutions. Check the schedule for your section meeting topic, date and time and plan to attend.
District Directors/Supervisors Section Meeting:
Sunday, July 12 - 8:00 – 9:00 am
Major City Directors/Supervisors Section Meeting:
Sunday, July 12 - 9:15 – 10:15 am
State Agency Section Meeting:
Monday, July 13 – 12:00 – 2:00 pm
Employee/Manager Section Meeting:
Tuesday, July 14 – 9:45 – 10:45 am