Visit Eau Claire

September 15 – 20, 2026

Thank you to our conference hosts!

Eau Claire, Wisconsin, could probably lay claim to being “The Indie Capital of the Midwest,” but trademarking that would be far too corporate a move for this independent-minded university town. Perched at the meeting point of the crystal-clear Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers, the city invites everyone to take part in its one-of-a-kind vibe. Here, farm kids grow up to be artists and entrepreneurs. Alternative is a compliment. Attitude matters more than age. Hospitality is real. Originality rules. In short, Eau Claire marches to its own beat and we want you to join the rhythm.

Creativity and culture are everywhere. Our Sculpture Tour Eau Claire is the largest rotating outdoor sculpture tour in the nation, with over 120 works dotting the city and surrounding valleys. Music is part of our DNA, from Bon Iver’s hometown roots to festival staples like Summer Jam, Blue Ox, and Country Jam. Outdoor enthusiasts will find 77 miles of bike trails, rivers perfect for paddling, and hidden spots that reward those willing to explore.

Eau Claire is also officially the Kubb Capitol of North America. Kubb is an up-and-coming lawn game originally from Sweden that can only be described as “Viking chess.” The game is so ingrained in our identity that we host the U.S. National Championship each July, where visitors are welcome to watch or even join in on this social and competitive tradition.

The city is just the beginning. Surrounding communities like Osseo, the Town of Wheaton, Altoona, and the Town of Union each add their own unique character, creating a region that is both collaborative and welcoming. Together with Eau Claire, these neighboring towns offer a variety of experiences for visitors, from public art and live music to outdoor adventures along scenic trails and rivers.

We can’t wait to welcome MTJA conference attendees to Eau Claire. Get ready to experience the energy, creativity, and originality that make this corner of Wisconsin unlike anywhere else.

Conference Questions

Contact Mary Bergin
mary@roadstraveled.com

2026 MTJA Fall Conference

Flo and Elaine Senior Shoot-2978

Together Farms July 2022-4519

Farmers Market July 2022-4739

TBEX Opening Party Haymarket-6443

Conference Registration

Registration will open June 1, 2026, and XXXX is the deadline for registering.

Conference Costs

Active MTJA Members – $150
Associate and Alternate MTJA Members – $225
Guests of MTJA Members – $275Daily lodging rate for Associate/Alternate members – $159. Active member registration includes four conference nights of lodging (five for MTJA board members). One or more additional nights for Active members is $159 per night.Lodging rates include taxes and complimentary parking. Each guest shares a room with a member for no additional lodging fee.

Transportation

For those flying into Minneapolis (MSP), shuttle cost is $45 each way to Eau Claire (a $9 discount). For those flying into Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, shuttles to/from the host hotel will be complimentary.

Depending on post-conference tour location, Active participants may need to involve an additional airport for their departure from Wisconsin.

Conference Professional Development

To be announced.

Conference Itinerary

To be announced.

Conference Registration Steps

To be announced.

Conference Policies

Members and guests who cancel their paid registration no later than 30 days before the start of the core conference shall receive a full refund of their MTJA conference registration fee.

Those who cancel their registrations from 15 to 29 days before the core conference shall receive a 50 percent refund of their MTJA conference registration fee.

Those who cancel from 8 to 14 days before the core conference shall receive a 25 percent refund of their MTJA conference registration fee.

Those who cancel fewer than 7 days before the core conference shall receive no refund of their MTJA conference registration fee. A refund exception may be possible because of illness.