When: Tuesday, July 7 - Saturday, July 11, 2026

Where: Buffalo Convention Center, 153 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Held biennially in July, the WSA  Convention is the LARGEST Williams syndrome event in the country bringing together the foremost experts on Williams syndrome and related characteristics to discuss the latest research findings, medical treatments, and educational strategies. More than 60 educational sessions provide families with the latest resources and information, while children, and adults with Williams syndrome are offered specialized age-appropriate programs. 

In addition to everything mentioned above, when you join us at the 2026 Convention, you will be able to:

  • Begin each day with continental breakfast and a message from our keynote or general sessions speakers.
  • Participate in various "roundtable" small group discussions throughout each day. Invite others to join you (or you join theirs) as you participate in informal discussions and information exchanges around various offered topics.
  • Attend optional evening entertainment for the whole family throughout the week.
  • and more!

Here’s a brief look at what’s in store:

  • Wrightslaw Training – An optional pre-convention program focused on special education law and advocacy. It is designed for parents, advocates, attorneys, educators, health care providers, and others who represent the interests of children with disabilities and their families and is open to both members and non-members.
  • Taste of Buffalo – The largest two-day food festival in the United States, right in the heart of downtown and steps from the convention center.
  • Optional Excursion to Niagara Falls – Experience one of the natural wonders of the world with your WSA friends.
  • Sessions for Everyone – Learn from parents, educators, medical professionals, and friends with Williams syndrome as they share knowledge, insights, and experiences.
  • Age-Specific Programs – Engaging activities and support designed for all ages, from infants to adults, plus sibling programs for ages birth through 17.
  • WSA Favorites Return – Don’t miss GLOW Bingo, karaoke, and of course, our themed dance party on Saturday night.

KEY DATES:

  • January 7, 2026 at Noon ET - Hotel room block opens for reservations.
  • January 20, 2026 – Scholarship information available and application opens.
  • March 2026 – Registration opens for convention, sessions, and programs.

For questions, email convention@williams-syndrome.org.

CONVENTION REGISTRATION AND SESSION INFORMATION

Williams syndrome conventions aren't just ordinary conventions - there is something for EVERYONE! From infants to adults with WS, to parents and teachers, our convention offers educational sessions, programs, activities, fun, and more for everyone in our community. 

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2026 CONVENTION WILL OPEN IN MARCH 2026. To learn more about the convention agenda, pricing, or to register, visit the Registration page by clicking the button below.

2026 convention agenda and pricing information

HOTEL OPTIONS

As attendance at our biennial conventions increases, so does our need for meeting space and sleeping rooms. This year, the WSA has secured room blocks at 5 hotels, all of which are less than .4 miles from the Buffalo Convention Center. Visit the Convention Hotel page to learn more about the available hotels by clicking the button below. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: HOTEL ROOM BLOCKS WILL OPEN FOR RESERVATIONS AT 12PM ET ON JANUARY 7, 2026. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE HOTELS TO MAKE RESERVATIONS PRIOR TO THIS TIME.

learn about convention hotels

VOLUNTEER AT THE CONVENTION

Volunteers are key to making our biennial conventions a huge success! Over 150 volunteers each day ensure that our programs run safely and smoothly. We're looking for volunteers in the following areas:

  • Childcare - Infant, Toddler Programs: Be a play partner for children with Williams syndrome* and their siblings while their parents attend important medical and educational sessions on Williams syndrome
  • School-Age Program: Be a “camp counselor” at our on-site day camp program for children ages 6 – 12 with WS and their siblings. Multiple-day availability is a plus!
  • Teen and Adult Companions: (in hotel and community): Go “out and about” in the Buffalo area with groups of our teens (most of whom have WS) and adults with WS as they enjoy local attractions and in-house programming. Teen and/or adult program volunteers must take responsibility for the well-being of three or more individuals with WS who need mild to moderate assistance. Typical assistance can include: money management, restroom guidance, managing an assigned group at all times, helping them make good choices, and serving as a good role model. Full-day availability required.
  • General: Program registration tables, evening activities, and more.

Click the button below to learn more or to register to volunteer.

learn more about volunteering