Special Events

Wolves and Wilderness Bus Trip

Thursday, October 22
6 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: $125

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Wolves and Wilderness bus tour! Departing bright and early from the Minneapolis Marriott Southwest on Thursday, October 22, 2026, this journey takes you to the heart of Minnesota’s Northwoods and the renowned International Wolf Center in Ely. Enjoy exclusive, behind-the-scenes access with the Center’s wolf care team, participate in dynamic, hands-on activities, and deepen your understanding of the intricate relationship between wolves and wild lands. After lunch, explore captivating exhibits and find unique treasures at the Wolf Den Store. Return to the Marriott, ready for the Symposium Welcome Reception and an evening celebrating our shared passion for wolves and wild lands.

Symposium Welcome Reception - included with registration

Thursday, October 22
6 p.m. Reception and Dinner Buffet

Kick off your conference experience with an unforgettable Welcome Reception on Thursday evening, October 22, 2026! Sip on your favorite drinks at the lively cash bar and treat your tastebuds to a mouthwatering dinner buffet, all while connecting with fellow attendees in a festive atmosphere.

Poster Session and Reception

Friday, October 23
4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

On Friday evening, there will be a lively poster session and reception, offering a chance to mingle and engage with presenters before enjoying the buffet dinner.

Movie - "A Good Wolf" - included with registration

Friday, October 23
8 p.m.

Settle in for an exclusive premiere of “A Good Wolf”—a stunning feature-length documentary that plunges you into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Follow the gripping journeys of three different groups as they navigate the high-stakes battle over a single tract of land next to Denali National Park. Experience the drama, the passion, and the stakes as state and federal authorities, fur trappers, and wildlife advocates collide in a struggle for the future of America’s iconic wild places and animals. Don’t miss this powerful story of conflict, courage, and conservation.

Breakfast Chats

Saturday, October 24
7 a.m.

Start your Saturday with our Breakfast Chats, where you can connect with leading wolf biologists, professors, educators, wolf facility operators, development directors, and executive directors from renowned wolf organizations

Formal Flannel Banquet - included with registration

Saturday, October 24
6 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Dr. L. David Mech and honor the L. David Mech Fellowship.

After the presentations, enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and a lively social hour, and meet acclaimed wolf book authors at our book signing event. Bring your own books for signing, or purchase titles on-site. A full list of participating authors will be announced soon.

Voice for Wolves Award

Conclude the symposium on Sunday with the presentation of the Voice for Wolves Award by the International Wolf Center, following the keynote address.