All events and receptions are subject to change. Stay tuned for more information and details coming soon.
Community Commons
Wednesday, November 18 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, November 19 | 10:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, November 20 | 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
The AEA Community Commons is the central gathering space at Evaluation 2026, designed to bring attendees together throughout the day. Whether you're arriving to register, exploring exhibits and posters, connecting with colleagues, visiting the AEA Hub, or simply taking a break between sessions, the Community Commons is where the conference community comes together.
Explore Community Commons:
- Stop by registration
- Meet with exhibitors
- Visit AEA staff members and volunteers in the AEA Hub
- Conference Advisory Working Group table
- Explore up to 280 posters on Thursday, November 19
Topical Interest Group (TIG) Fair
and Totally Tubular 80’s Birthday Party
Wednesday, November 18 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join us for an evening of connection, celebration, and community at the TIG Reception & Totally Tubular 80's Birthday Party! Meet members from AEA's 50+ Topical Interest Groups (TIGs) and discover opportunities to engage in their year-round initiatives, share ideas, and expand your professional network.
As the reception continues, step back in time to 1986 and celebrate 40 years of AEA with an 80's-themed birthday party. Enjoy music, networking, and a festive atmosphere as we honor AEA's impact on the evaluation profession and look ahead to the future. Whether you're connecting with TIG members, reconnecting with colleagues, or showing off your favorite 80's style, this is a celebration you won't want to miss!
Sponsored by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE).
Meet the Authors Reception
Thursday, November 19 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
AEA will host a Meet the Authors reception during Evaluation 2026. This event will give attendees the opportunity to view the breadth and depth of publications available in the field as well as speak one-on-one with leading authors.
If you are a SAGE or Guilford Press published author, you only need to RSVP to AEA, and we will work with your publisher, who will bring your book(s) and promotional flyers to the event. If you are an author publishing through a publisher not listed above, it is your responsibility to bring your own book(s) and promotional flyers for display
AEA Send-Off Celebration
Friday, November 20 | 5:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.
Wrap up the conference by joining fellow attendees for a casual evening of conversation and connection. Reflect on key takeaways, share final thoughts, and strengthen the relationships built throughout the week. Light refreshments will be provided.
Sponsored by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE).
Please note: The Silent Auction will not be held at Evaluation 2026. We extend our sincere appreciation to all who have participated in and supported this activity in past years. While the Silent Auction will not take place this year, we look forward to providing other meaningful opportunities for engagement and contribution throughout the conference.