Events & Symposium
From the annual symposium to global events, connect with the naval preservation community worldwide.
Flagship Event
2026 HNSA
Annual
Symposium
📍 LST-325 — Evansville, Indiana
📅 September 14–17, 2026
Join us aboard the LST-325 in Indiana for presentations, a ship tour (possibly underway!), and the annual awards banquet. Early bird registration will remain until August 1, after which the price for registration will increase.
General Registration (all events)
$350
Guest Registration (incl. welcome reception, sessions, lunches)
$150
One-Day Registration (all events except Thursday Banquet)
$150
Event-Only or Add Guest
Tuesday (Welcome Reception), Wednesday (Welcome Dinner), or Thursday (Banquet)
$50
Virtual Attendance (Zoom)
$50
2026 Agenda Highlights
Mon Sep 14
- Registration
- Welcome Reception aboard LST-325
Tue Sep 15
- PM Presentations
- Reception at the Evansville War Museum followed by Casino Night at Bally's
Wed Sep 16
- PM Presentations
- Dinner Gerst Haus German Restaurant
- TBD - LST UNDERWAY
Thu Sep 17
- PM Presentations
- Banquet at Riverfront Event Center
Frequently Asked
Is HNSA Symposium for people who do my job?
Yes! Everyone from executive directors and board presidents to volunteers and even folks not associated with a museum ship have fun at HNSA. The symposium is a great place to network and meet experts in the field. There is a trade show for our industry affiliates to show off the products they have that support running a museum ship. Folks have come to HNSA meetings to pass their resumes around, to meet their peers, discuss best practices, and to learn what's happening in the field.
Is there a dress code?
The banquet is an informal event (business informal); however, the rest of the symposium is casual. Many of us wear our work polos or other clothes that represent our ships.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we will provide light breakfast and lunch Tues-Thurs. We will offer heavy appetizers Mon. Tuesday is an off-site dinner, Wednesday is dinner on your own, and Thursday is our Closing Ceremony Dinner. All (except Wed dinner) are included in the general registration fee.
What if I have dietary concerns?
Please share your dietary needs in the registration process, and we will do everything we can to accommodate you.
Who is eligible for a scholarship?
Anyone can apply! We want the Symposium and the information we share to be as accessible as possible. Preference will be given to emerging professionals, people who have never been before, and people who would not otherwise be able to attend. In past years, we have been able to provide scholarships for the majority of applicants.
Can I bring my spouse or partner?
Yes. There is a guest rate that assumes your partner will not attend the working sessions but allows them to attend all the evening meals and after-hours events (included in the full registration fee). You can also purchase an extra ticket for the after-hours events if they have other plans for most of the time.
Do I have to be a member to register?
No. Anyone is welcome to attend.
What if my ship, museum or job isn't a member, or what if I'm not in the field?
You are still more than welcome to attend and see what HNSA has to offer.