Download the full conference brochure – coming in late April. 

Thursday, September 25
8 AM – 3:15 PM:  Pre-Tour: Explore Elegance at the Ford House & Gardens and Cranbrook Gardens (Special Registration Required)
Step into a world of timeless beauty and rich history with our exclusive tour of two of Michigan’s most treasured landmarks – the Ford House and Gardens and Cranbrook Gardens. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Cranbrook Gardens, a living museum of horticultural excellence and artistic design. These gardens were envisioned by famed landscape architect George Booth and feature formal plantings, flowing fountains, and enchanting vistas. Your journey continues at the stunning Ford House, the lakeside estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford. Nestled on the shores of Lake St. Clair, the estate features a beautifully preserved home filled with original furnishings, art, and personal touches, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of one of America’s most iconic families. Wander through the expansive gardens, designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen, and experience the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or design aficionado, this tour promises an unforgettable day of inspiration, insight, and scenic splendor. A waterfront lunch along Lake St Clair, which lies between the U.S. and Canada, is included in the price of the tour. The cost is $89. Seating is limited so register early. See the registration form for details.

3:30 PM:  Newcomer Connection: Your Adventure Begins
Welcome to all the first-time attendees. We are glad you are here! This informal session will allow you to meet AIB volunteers and staff, learn how to get the most out of the conference, and help get you ready for learning, inspiration, and fun ahead.

4 PM:  Elected Leaders and Municipal Administrators Roundtable
America in Bloom is pleased to present an idea sharing and networking program designed exclusively for elected leaders and municipal administrators. Through peer-to-peer discussion, learn about the solutions communities are using to solve some of today’s challenges facing municipalities of all sizes. This roundtable is a must for all elected officials and municipal leaders.

5:30 PM:  Opening Night Reception
Catch up with old friends and make new ones during this informal cash bar event.

6:30 PM:  Community Connections Dinner Celebration & Silent Auction
Now it’s time to celebrate your achievements. This is a time for food, fun, and awards! Each AIB community will be recognized for their efforts. This is where we celebrate YOU and what YOUR community is doing to make America bloom! All Dwight Lund Community Champion nominees will be honored and the winner announced. At the end of the festivities, enjoy dessert while networking with your peers and bidding on silent auction items.

Friday, September 26
6:30 AM:  Sunrise Stretch: Meet Up to Walk or Bike the Paint Creek Trail by the Hotel
Rise and shine, early birds! Start your day with fresh air and great company as we hit the scenic Paint Creek Trail right by the hotel. Whether you’re a power-walker, a casual stroller, or an adrenaline-fueled cyclist, this relaxed morning meet-up is the perfect way to wake up your body and clear your mind before the day’s sessions.

8 AM:  Morning Jolt: Cuisine, Caffeine, and Conversation
Cuisine + Caffeine + conversation = great start to the day. Grab some breakfast, coffee/tea, and converse with other AIB attendees and the Showcase of Innovation companies. These companies feature innovative products and services relevant to your community. Breakfast is not provided but is available at the hotel restaurant, snack bar, and onsite coffee shop.

8:30 AM:  Welcome & Keynote Presentation: Revitalizing Main Street USA
John Bry, Main Street Oakland County
Main Streets are the heart and soul of American communities, but how do we keep them vibrant, welcoming, and thriving in a changing world? How can communities breathe new life into their historic downtowns while fostering economic vitality and beautification? This session dives into inspiring success stories and practical strategies for breathing new life into downtowns. Through real-world case studies and actionable insights, you will learn how to enhance economic development while preserving a community’s unique character; implement beautification strategies that drive foot traffic and boost local businesses; engage residents, businesses, and local governments in a shared vision for revitalization; and leverage grants, partnerships, and volunteer efforts for long-term impact. Whether you’re a local leader, business owner, or community advocate, this session will provide inspiration and practical tools to revitalize your downtown and create a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

9:15 AM: Planning for the Unexpected: Natural Disaster Management for In Bloom Programs – Things We Wish We’d Known
Representatives from Tavares, Florida and Greenwood, South Carolina
When disaster strikes, every moment counts, and for communities participating in America in Bloom programs, planning ahead can make all the difference. In this candid and eye-opening session, community leaders share real-life experiences navigating hurricanes, floods, and other unexpected events. Learn from their challenges, missteps, and triumphs as they offer the hard-earned lessons they wish they’d known before disaster hit. You’ll walk away with practical tips, planning tools, and a new perspective on resilience, recovery, and how to protect the progress and pride your community has worked so hard to build.

10 AM:  Showcase of Innovation & Conversation
This networking break allows you to continue sharing ideas and meeting Showcase of Innovation companies.

10:15 AM:  Succession Planning to Keep Your In Bloom Efforts Going
Representatives from Castle Rock, Washington
What happens when your passionate leader retires or key volunteers move on? The success of your In Bloom program shouldn’t hinge on just a few people. This session explores the critical – and often overlooked – need for thoughtful succession planning. Discover how to build a strong bench of future leaders, transfer knowledge effectively, and create a sustainable structure that keeps your momentum going year after year. With real-world examples and actionable strategies, you’ll leave equipped to future-proof your program and ensure your community continues to flourish for generations to come.

11 AM:  Idea Roulette with the AIB Advisors
Fast paced. High energy. Expert powered. That’s what you’ll get in this session as we put our Advisors on the spot. This rapid-fire session is your chance to tap into the brilliance of AIB’s advisors. Have a burning question? A tricky challenge? Our expert panel of AIB Advisors will hit you with their sharpest insights, boldest ideas, and battle-tested advice. No long lectures. No slides. Just pure brainpower on demand.

12 PM:  Showcase of Innovation & Conversation
This networking break allows you to continue sharing ideas and meeting Showcase of Innovation companies.

12:30 PM:  Buses Depart for Orion Township Adventure
You get to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and innovative spirit of Orion Township, Michigan — where learning, community, and outdoor living go hand in hand. Known for its scenic trails, sparkling lakes, and lush green spaces, Orion Township becomes our guided outdoor learning lab as we explore firsthand the programs and spaces that have earned this community national recognition. From vibrant parks to thoughtfully designed public spaces, you’ll get an inside look at the award-winning initiatives that are setting the standard for excellence. We’ll also make time to stroll through downtown Lake Orion, a charming and walkable hub buzzing with local shops, cafes, and restaurants — perfect for inspiration and relaxation alike. Following the tour there will be a reception to mix and mingle, and then dinner is on your own to explore the local flavors at your leisure.

8:30 PM:  Buses Depart for Return to Hotel

Saturday, September 27
6:30 AM:  Sunrise Stretch: Meet Up to Walk or Bike the Paint Creek Trail by the Hotel
Rise and shine, early birds! Start your day with fresh air and great company as we hit the scenic Paint Creek Trail right by the hotel. Whether you’re a power-walker, a casual stroller, or an adrenaline-fueled cyclist, this relaxed morning meet-up is the perfect way to wake up your body and clear your mind before the day’s sessions.

8 AM:  Morning Jolt: Cuisine, Caffeine, and Conversation
Cuisine + Caffeine + conversation = great start to the day. Grab some breakfast, coffee/tea, and converse with other AIB attendees and the Showcase of Innovation companies. These companies feature innovative products and services relevant to your community. Breakfast is not provided but is available at the hotel restaurant, snack bar, and onsite coffee shop.

8:30 AM:  State of the Organization
Rod Barnes, AIB President
Learn about the organization’s current status and how AIB is striving to make even more of an impact in communities.

9 AM:  10-Point Plan to Implement the AIB Advisors Report
Pam Newton, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois
You’ve received your AIB Advisors Report – now what? Turn feedback into action with this focused session designed to help communities move from recommendations to real results. Designed with both dedicated volunteers and hardworking city staff in mind, this session walks you through a practical 10-point action plan to turn recommendations into real, visible improvements. We’ll walk through a practical plan that breaks down the report into manageable steps, helping you prioritize, organize, and mobilize people for maximum impact. Whether you’re new to the process or looking to refresh your approach, this session will help you bridge the gap between planning and progress.

9:30 AM:  Showcase of Innovation & Conversation
This networking break allows you to continue sharing ideas and meeting Showcase of Innovation companies.

9:45 AM: Hot Topics Deep Dive Breakout Sessions
We pick the topics, you pick where to go! Each breakout session will focus on a hot topic impacting communities. Be prepared to take lots of notes!

10:30 AM:  Meet with the Advisors
This time is set aside so community members can meet with Advisors and delegates from other AIB communities. Get excellent insight into the ordinary and extraordinary things towns and cities are doing across America. AIB Advisors will share what they saw during their visits to communities and how to enhance your town’s participation in AIB.

Afternoon:  Free Time or Offsite Educational Tours (Special registration required for offsite educational tours)
You have options on how to spend your time this afternoon. Within easy walking distance of the hotel is downtown Rochester where you will find restaurants, retail shopping, and more. The Paint Creek Trail runs from the hotel to downtown. Or if you are looking for some more learning and action, then hop on the bus to head back to Orion Township. We’ll stop at Township Hall for lunch. Then you will get on a shuttle to head to one of the two educational tours available. Seating is limited. The fee is $25 for lunch and the tour. See the registration page.

• Miracle League Field – Join us for an inspiring visit that showcases Orion Township’s commitment to creating spaces where everyone can play, learn, and grow together. Miracle League Field provides children and adults with physical and cognitive challenges the opportunity to experience the joy of baseball. The custom-designed synthetic turf accommodates wheelchairs and walking assistance devices, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all players. Learn how the Miracle League fosters teamwork, builds self-esteem, and creates lasting friendships among players of all abilities. Explore the accessible features of the field, including wheelchair-friendly pathways, specialized dugouts, and accessible restrooms. Discover the impact of volunteer “buddies” who assist players, and how community support drives the success of the league.
• Cannabis Cultivation – Explore Orion Township’s pioneering role in sustainable cannabis cultivation. Home to advanced facilities that exemplify innovation and environmental stewardship, Orion Township enforces stringent ordinances to ensure that cultivation facilities operate responsibly, minimizing environmental impact and addressing community concerns. These regulations include requirements for odor control and facility placement, maintaining a balance between industry and residential life. This insightful tour showcases how Orion Township integrates advanced agricultural practices with sustainable and community-focused initiatives.

5:30 PM:  Closing Night Reception
This final night cash bar reception allows you to mingle with old and new friends, swap contact information, and make plans to stay in touch.

6:30 PM:  Evening in Bloom Banquet
The anticipation goes into high gear with dinner, fun, and awards. This final-night event shines the spotlight on the transformative efforts by AIB communities.