We can’t wait to welcome you to the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa for the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show. To help you prepare for an inspiring week of learning, networking, and celebration, we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions below.
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, our team is happy to help:
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, our team is happy to help:
- Registration + Students: Kelsey Chapman, Membership Engagement Coordinator
- Trade Show: Justin Lippe, Director of Operations & Finance
- Education Sessions, Speakers + Venue: Shelby Eva, Director of Education & Training
- Communication, Branding, Sponsorship + Mobile App: Tina Nowakowski, Director of Communication & Strategic Partnerships
- Executive Leadership + Engagement: Nichole Fisher, CMP, Executive Director
How do I register for the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show?
Delegate registration for the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show will open on October 15, 2026.
You must be logged in to receive member rates. If you don't know your password, choose the Forgot Password option or contact [email protected] for assistance.
Only employees who are active on your organization’s mParks membership roster are eligible for member pricing. To apply member rates to additional employees, upgrade your membership. Otherwise, mParks reserves the right to invoice for additional fees.
Trade Show registration is now open at www.mparks.org/tradeshow.
You must be logged in to receive member rates. If you don't know your password, choose the Forgot Password option or contact [email protected] for assistance.
Only employees who are active on your organization’s mParks membership roster are eligible for member pricing. To apply member rates to additional employees, upgrade your membership. Otherwise, mParks reserves the right to invoice for additional fees.
Trade Show registration is now open at www.mparks.org/tradeshow.
Can I receive a discount for registering multiple people?
Yes! Agency Members registering multiple Full Delegates are eligible for discounts:
Coordination & Process
To qualify, all registrations must be completed by January 17, 2027. Each agency should designate a primary contact to coordinate registrations and contact Kelsey Chapman, Membership Engagement Coordinator, to request the discount. Once mParks verifies the total number of paid registrations, the Membership Engagement Coordinator will issue a complimentary registration code to the designated contact.
Complimentary registrations must be assigned to current agency employees, cannot be transferred to non-affiliated individuals, and must be processed prior to the conference start date.
- Register 5 - 9 Full Delegates → receive 1 complimentary Full Delegate package
- Register 10+ Full Delegates → receive 2 complimentary Full Delegate packages
Coordination & Process
To qualify, all registrations must be completed by January 17, 2027. Each agency should designate a primary contact to coordinate registrations and contact Kelsey Chapman, Membership Engagement Coordinator, to request the discount. Once mParks verifies the total number of paid registrations, the Membership Engagement Coordinator will issue a complimentary registration code to the designated contact.
Complimentary registrations must be assigned to current agency employees, cannot be transferred to non-affiliated individuals, and must be processed prior to the conference start date.
How do I modify my registration?
Need to make a change? Email [email protected] and our team will assist you.
Registrations may be transferred within the same agency at no additional charge if requested in writing by January 26, 2027.
Registrations may be transferred within the same agency at no additional charge if requested in writing by January 26, 2027.
How do I book a hotel?
mParks has secured special group rates at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa in Acme, MI. Visit mParks.org/hotel for details and booking links.
2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show Hotel Block pricing is guaranteed until January 2, 2027, or until the room block is sold out.
2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show Hotel Block pricing is guaranteed until January 2, 2027, or until the room block is sold out.
Where do I park?
Complimentary onsite parking is available to all 2027 Conference & Trade Show attendees, exhibitors, and speakers.
Do I need to pre-register for sessions?
No pre-registration is required for education breakout sessions. Education sessions are on a first come first serve basis.
Pre-conference sessions and offsite tours may require pre-registration.
Pre-conference sessions and offsite tours may require pre-registration.
How do I get my CEUs?
CEUs for CPRP and CPRE are included in all registration packages. CEUs can be tracked via the official mParks Mobile App - more details to come!
Unable to download the app? You can grab a tracking sheet to have signed by a CEU moderator at each session you attend. Additional sheets will be available at the registration desk.
To earn credit, you must attend the full session. Please note that mParks does not maintain individual CEU records; therefore, it is essential to retain your own documentation.
Unable to download the app? You can grab a tracking sheet to have signed by a CEU moderator at each session you attend. Additional sheets will be available at the registration desk.
To earn credit, you must attend the full session. Please note that mParks does not maintain individual CEU records; therefore, it is essential to retain your own documentation.
How do I attend the Trade Show?
The mParks Trade Show is open to all registered attendees and their guests. Official mParks Conference & Trade Show Nametags are required to enter the Trade Show.
Wednesday, February 3
Thursday, February 4
Wednesday, February 3
- 4:15 – 6:15 PM | Grand Opening
Thursday, February 4
- 8:00 – 9:30 AM | Coffee Break
- 12:15 – 2:00 PM | Lunch & Final Hours
How do I request special accommodations?
mParks provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and our commitment to equitable access. Individuals seeking accommodations for participation in any mParks event, program, or service may contact [email protected] or 517.485.9588. Requests will be reviewed promptly, and we’ll collaborate to identify appropriate solutions.
View Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Pet and Service Animal Policy.
View Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Pet and Service Animal Policy.
I’m a student — how can I get involved?
Students are a vital part of the mParks community. Opportunities include:
Learn more at mParks.org/students.
- Student Showcase participation
- Volunteering at the event
- Discounted student registration rates
Learn more at mParks.org/students.
What is the refund policy?
Refunds will be issued for written cancellations received at least 10 business days before the event start date, minus a $50 processing fee.
No refunds will be granted for cancellations after January 15, 2027, or for no-shows. Registrations may be transferred within the same agency at no additional charge if requested in writing by January 26, 2027.
No refunds will be granted for cancellations after January 15, 2027, or for no-shows. Registrations may be transferred within the same agency at no additional charge if requested in writing by January 26, 2027.
What is the dress code?
Tuesday (during the day) Business casual
Tuesday (social) Casual
Wednesday (during the day) Business casual
Wednesday (social) Casual
Thursday (during the day) Business casual
Thursday (Awards Banquet) Business formal
Thursday (social) Casual
Friday Department Logo / Business casual
Tuesday (social) Casual
Wednesday (during the day) Business casual
Wednesday (social) Casual
Thursday (during the day) Business casual
Thursday (Awards Banquet) Business formal
Thursday (social) Casual
Friday Department Logo / Business casual
Can I purchase additional tickets for conference meals or events?
Yes! Additional tickets are available for select conference meals and events, allowing you to bring guests or attend additional functions.
Additional tickets may be purchased online for:
Additional tickets may be purchased online for:
- Tuesday Trivia- Test your knowledge, enjoy some friendly competition, and help support the mParks Students.
- Wednesday Delegate Lunch – Celebrate leadership and creativity with fellow professionals.
- Thursday Trade Show Lunch – Refuel while connecting with exhibitors and peers.
- Thursday Awards Reception & Banquet – An evening of recognition, inspiration, and celebration.
Return on Investment & Justification Resources
To help secure approval and funding to attend, use the following resources to demonstrate the professional value and return on investment (ROI) of participation.
- The mParks Conference is the only statewide event connecting professionals from all facets of parks, recreation, and leisure services.
- Sessions are tailored to Michigan agencies, offering practical solutions for local challenges.
- Attendance supports compliance with continuing education requirements for certifications such as CPRE, CPRP, CTRS, and CYSA.
- The event fosters innovation, helping departments rethink and reinvent how they serve their communities.
- Networking and collaboration opportunities lead to shared resources and regional partnerships.
- The Trade Show enables hands-on evaluation of new products, software, and equipment before purchase, saving time and money.
