FICP | 2025 Annual Conference Networking

Power Networking in the Nation's Capital

At the FICP Annual Conference, networking goes far beyond the typical exchange of business cards. Every conversation, shared experience and new connection opens the door to professional growth. As you engage with fellow meetings professionals and hospitality partners, you'll find opportunities not only to expand your network, but also to gain fresh insights, share best practices and learn through real-world experiences. Whether it's an informal chat between sessions or a structured networking event, these interactions become powerful moments of experiential learning that enhance your knowledge and elevate your impact.

Bookmark this page as we share more (and more) of the networking program at the 2025 FICP Annual Conference.

November 2

Welcome Event at the National Museum of American History

7:00-9:30 p.m.

Immerse Yourself in American History
Few icons rival The Star-Spangled Banner, our First Ladies’ gowns, or Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. At the National Museum of American History, they’re just the beginning. For our Welcome Reception, this legendary space becomes your private playground—where pop culture meets preserved history. Mingle, explore, and soak in the stories that shaped a nation. You’ll leave feeling there’s truly no place like home.

November 3

Symphony Soiree at the National Cathedral

7:00-10:00 p.m.

Where Classic Elegance Meets the Pulse of DC
Set against the stunning backdrop of Washington, DC’s National Cathedral, "Today's Symphony" brings together the cathedral’s storied musical heritage and the city’s dynamic, contemporary energy. Themed as a "symphony of sounds and flavors," the event transforms the cathedral’s grandeur with vibrant pops of colors, creating a space where classical elegance meets modern vibrancy. Candlelit tables and elegant floral arrangements set the stage for a captivating performance by a live quartet or chamber orchestra, filling the halls with timeless melodies. Interactive action stations offer culinary delights thoughtfully paired with musical interpretations, inviting guests to explore each station in harmony with the evening’s performances. Urban poets and spoken-word artists add a distinctly DC twist, echoing the city’s cultural heartbeat. This unique experience celebrates the harmony between past and present, connecting guests to the spiritual and artistic soul of the nation’s capital.

Brought to you in partnership with CSI DMC

November 4

Sixties Supper Club in the Washington Hilton International Ballroom

7:00-11:00 p.m.

As our host hotel celebrates its 60th anniversary, we invite you to step back into the sophisticated sixties for a dazzling finale in the legendary International Ballroom at the Washington Hilton—a space that once echoed with the sounds of music icons like The Doors and Jimi Hendrix, and welcomed presidents and dignitaries from around the world.

The evening will unfold in an elegant supper club setting, where mid-century-inspired food and beverage action stations, and nostalgic decor will evoke the glamour and style of the era.

As the energy of the night builds, attendees will enjoy the best dance music of all eras, infused with a sixties-inspired twist.

Attendee Meetups

Sunday, November 2

First-Time Attendee Meetup

3:45-4:30 p.m.

Meet fellow first-time attendees at the Annual Conference and hear from FICP leadership as they share event tips and tricks before you kick off day one. Meetings professionals & hospitality partner events held separately; by invitation only.

Solo Travelers Meetup

5:30-6:15 p.m.

Traveling without a team? Meet other meetings professionals & hospitality partners who are also attending solo.

Rising Professionals Happy Hour

5:30-6:15 p.m.

Meetings professionals and hospitality partners with 10 or fewer years of experience are invited to join us for a quick reception on Sunday night. Hear about the work of our Rising Professionals Community and meet colleagues who are at a similar place in their career.

The Braindate Lounge

Sunday, November 2 - Tuesday, November 4

View the schedule for specific times the Braindate Lounge is open.

Hospitality partners and meeting professionals—get ready to connect with purpose! Back again for a second year: Braindate—your go-to tool for sparking smart, one-on-one or group chats on topics you care about. Share ideas, swap insights, and meet brilliant minds in the Braindate Lounge. Let’s talk, learn, and level up—together!

Here's how it works:

Through the event mobile app, you'll be able to access the Braindate Gateway, where you can browse topics others have posted related to knowledge they'd like to share, or anything they'd like to discuss in the Topic Market. This is also where you can post topics for others to book!
Choose a topic you'd like to discuss and if it's a one-on-one topic, propose a few times to meet. Group braindates happen at one set time: you'll simply reserve a spot to join one.
Book your braindates! When it's time to meet, make your way to the Braindate Lounge.

Watch this video to learn more. Additional information and access to the Braindate Topic Market will be shared with registered attendees prior to the event!

Wellness Activities

A variety of wellness activities will be happening throughout the conference and we'll be sharing them with you soon!