Get ready to experience Rotary like never before at the 2026 District 5030 Conference, themed “Ignite Your Rotary Spirit,” taking place April 16–19 at the historic and elegant Marcus Whitman Hotel in Walla Walla, Washington. This year’s conference is more than just a gathering—it’s a celebration of purpose, connection, and inspiration set against the backdrop of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most charming destinations.
A Destination Worth the Journey
Nestled in the heart of southeastern Washington, Walla Walla is a town that blends small-town warmth with world-class appeal. Known for its award-winning wineries, vibrant arts scene, and historic downtown, Walla Walla offers the perfect setting for Rotarians to reflect, recharge, and reconnect. Whether you’re strolling through tree-lined streets, sampling local vintages, or enjoying the culinary delights of the region, Walla Walla invites you to slow down and savor the experience.
A Conference Designed to Inspire
The 2026 conference promises a dynamic mix of motivational speakers, interactive workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. Headlining the event is Amy Downs, a survivor of the Oklahoma City bombing, whose keynote, Hope is a Verb, will challenge and uplift attendees with a message of resilience and purpose.
Other sessions will focus on life-enhancing skills such as leadership, trust-building, and effective communication, with speakers like Libby Wagner, a respected leadership consultant known for her work in creating effective teams as well as an instructor in the D5030 RISE leadership development program.
Spotlight on Key Themes
This year’s breakout sessions are especially relevant for today’s Rotarians:
- Balancing Work, Life, and Rotary: Explore how to integrate Rotary service into your personal and professional life without burnout. Learn strategies for aligning your values, time, and energy to sustain long-term engagement.
- Engaging Youth in Rotary: Discover innovative approaches to attract and retain younger members. This session will highlight successful youth programs and offer actionable ideas to make Rotary more accessible and appealing to the next generation.
- Multi-Generational Leadership: Learn how to bridge generational gaps and foster inclusive leadership. This session will explore the strengths and challenges of different age groups and offer tools for building cohesive, intergenerational teams.
Fellowship, Fun, and Local Flavor
Beyond the sessions, the conference includes pre-conference activities like a golf tournament on April 16, and ample time to explore Walla Walla’s scenic beauty and cultural offerings. Whether you’re sipping wine with fellow Rotarians or enjoying a quiet moment in the town’s historic quarters, you’ll find countless ways to connect and unwind.
Join Us
This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Registration is now open at www.igniterotary2026.com, with early bird pricing available through December 31, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to reignite your Rotary spirit, deepen your impact, and celebrate the power of service in one of the most inspiring settings in the Northwest.
Let’s come together in Walla Walla to shape the future of Rotary—one connection, one idea, and one inspired moment at a time.
