NOAHCon Additional Activities
Some of the best NOAHCon memories happen outside the meeting rooms. Our Social Activities Coordinators have created a fun and welcoming lineup of activities designed to help attendees connect, relax, and build community. Whether you’re looking for adventure, creativity, or simply time to socialize with friends old and new, these optional activities offer something for everyone. Arrive early to enjoy pre-conference fun or reserve your spot in one of the exciting conference add-ons!
The following “Target Audience” designations are to be used as your guide for opportunities to connect, relax, and build community.
- Adults with Albinism: Designed for adults with albinism only.
- PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees: Organized with PWA’s in mind, but all would be welcome. (Age restrictions may apply. Adult supervision may be required for some activities.)
- Adults 18+: Designed for attendees ages 18 and older only.
- Everyone: Open to all attendees of any age. (Adult supervision may be required for some activities.)
NOAH Reserves the right to cancel any social activities due to low enrollment.
Weather Statement
Many NOAHCon social activities occur outdoors, including kayaking, biking, walking tours, and visits to local attractions. These activities will proceed rain or shine unless weather conditions pose a safety risk as determined by the activity provider or event organizers. In cases of severe weather, activities may be delayed, adjusted, or canceled at the discretion of the vendor. Participants should plan accordingly and dress for changing summer weather conditions in the Midwest.
Meet Our Social Activities Coordinators ~ Nick & Rebecca Smith
Nick and Rebecca Smith live in Delaware, Ohio, just north of Columbus, and are both dedicated professionals in the field of education. Nick is a school psychologist, and Rebecca is a Teacher for the Visually Impaired, Assistive Technology Specialist, and Orientation and Mobility student. Nick grew up in California and moved to Ohio after graduate school in 2016, while Rebecca has called Ohio home her entire life.
Both Nick and Rebecca attended their first NOAH Conference in 2012 in St. Louis—where they also first met. Since then, they have remained actively connected to the albinism community and have become increasingly involved with NOAH over the years. Their involvement began with helping to plan the 2019 Adult Weekend in Atlanta, and they have since served on the Adult Weekend planning committee and assisted with portions of adult programming for the 2024 NOAH Conference.
Outside of their professional roles, Nick and Rebecca both volunteer with Adaptive Sports Connection, supporting inclusive recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This year, they are excited to help support social programming and activities and to welcome attendees to Columbus. They are especially thrilled to introduce their daughter, Abby, born in September 2025, to the NOAH family and to share this conference experience with her.
Photo credit: Rick Guidotti // Positive Exposure
Pre-Conference Social Activities
WEDNESDAY
Kayaking*
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
*Cost: $55 per person (transportation included)
Target audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees
Get ready for an outdoor adventure on the water with Adaptive Sports Connection (ASC). This adaptive kayaking experience is designed for Adults with Albinism and open to all conference attendees looking to try something new.
Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned kayaker, ASC’s experienced staff will provide: single kayaks, tandem kayaks and/or adaptive equipment as well as support to help you feel confident and comfortable on the water. Round-trip transportation is provided, so all you have to do is show up ready for a great time.
Paddle, explore, and make memories with conference friends—adventure awaits!
The bus will depart the hotel at 4:00pm and arrive at the activity location at approximately 5:00pm. Attendees will depart from the activity at 9:00pm and return to the hotel at approximately 10:00pm.
Please note: All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver prior to departing. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
THURSDAY
North Market Scavenger Hunt
Open Thursday at 8:00 AM through Saturday at 5:00 PM
No cost – complete at your own pace
Target audience: Everyone!
Explore North Market, a vibrant public market in the heart of Columbus featuring a wide variety of food vendors, shops, and local flavor. Sign up for a fun scavenger hunt with a little friendly competition as you search for clues and solve puzzles while exploring the market.
The scavenger hunt may be completed any time from Thursday morning through Saturday evening, at your own pace. Submissions will be completed using a mobile device and may include photos.
Join in the fun with conference friends—all ages welcome!
Winners will be selected at random from all completed entries & will be announced at the Closing Session.
Explore German Village*
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
*$25 per person (includes COTA public bus day pass)
Target Audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees
Step out and experience one of Columbus’s most charming neighborhoods! Attendees will meet in the hotel lobby and travel together via public transit down High Street to historic German Village. Once there, you’ll have time to enjoy a walking tour, explore unique local shops, and discover cozy cafés and restaurants. This relaxed outing offers a great opportunity to connect with others while taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Columbus.
Register early as space on the walking tour is limited.
All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
Ride, Climb and Relax (3 activities in one!)*
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
*$68 per person
Target Audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees (18+)
(attendees are responsible for their own transportation to and from the hotel)
RIDE – Get ready for an active adventure along the Scioto Mile! Attendees will meet in the hotel lobby and walk together (approx. 1 mile; 25-30min) to the ride start point near Scotts Miracle Grow Field. From there, we’ll bike along scenic paths to Scioto Audubon Park (~8 miles; 20-30min via bike), with equipment and support provided by Adaptive Sports Connection. Bike options include standard two-wheel bicycles and recumbent trikes to meet a variety of needs.
CLIMB – At the park, participants will have the opportunity to test their skills at Bloc Garten’s climbing walls.
RELAX – Afterward, unwind and socialize with the group at Nocterra Audubon, a relaxed neighborhood gathering spot.
Space for this activity is limited, and advance registration is required.
Please note: All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. Equipment for biking and climbing is included, however participants are responsible for their own food and beverage during the activity.
Optional Activities (During Conference)
THURSDAY
Welcome Reception
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Target Audience: Everyone
Following the Opening Session, join us for a quick snack and great conversation! Reconnect with friends, meet someone new, and enjoy the energy that makes the NOAH community feel like family. It’s the perfect start to a conference where Together We’re Unlimited.
FRIDAY
Art Exhibit – “Unlimited Vision”
On display Friday & Saturday during conference programming. Meet with the featured artists on Saturday, during the Adult Program lunch.
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism
We are excited to bring back the NOAH Conference Art Show for its second exhibit, following its debut in Kansas City in 2018. This year’s theme, “Unlimited Vision,” celebrates the limitless creativity and lived experiences of Adults with Albinism.
The exhibit features original works across a range of media including painting, fiber arts, sculpture, photography, and more. In addition to viewing the artwork, attendees will have opportunities to connect with featured artists and participate in hands-on creative activities such as quilting and embroidery.
Please note: Adults with albinism expressing interest on their NOAHCon Registration form will receive further instructions to submit artwork for consideration. Attendees must register by May 24, 2026 to be eligible.
Coffee Hour
7:30 – 8:30 AM
Free to join – bring your own beverage
Target Audience: Adults 18+
Join us for a relaxed Coffee Hour for adults 18+ on Friday and Saturday mornings. This is a great opportunity to connect, enjoy conversation, and start the day together.
You can purchase grab-and-go coffee at:
Provisions on High (Tower 401)
The Market (Tower 402)
We will meet at the couches under the escalators in Tower 402 on the lobby level. (Location subject to change, depending on group size.)
Sip, chat, and ease into the morning!
Don’t forget to wear your NOAHCon badge!
Canvas Paint*
9:45 – 11:30 AM
*$12 per person
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism
Join us for a step-by-step canvas painting workshop designed for artists of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a beginner exploring your creative side, this interactive session offers a fun, social way to connect with fellow PWAs while creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember NOAHCon 2026.
Pre-registration is required. Registration includes purchase of painting materials, which will be distributed at the start of the session. Grab a coffee from downstairs and get that artistic energy flowing.
Journaling Your Way to Insight*
12:45 – 3:00 PM
*$5 per person
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism
Personal journaling can take many forms – a daily log, gratitude, reading, habit trackers, or art to name a few. Join Kris Baker as she provides the basics of journaling and also covers some of the mental health benefits of engaging in a regular journaling practice.
Each participant will receive a packet of materials to make a journal as well as tools to get started with a daily journaling practice.
Space is limited – registration is required. Packets will be distributed during the session.
Stitched Stories
3:30 – 5:00 PM
Facilitators: Sugandha Gupta, Joni Vella
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism 18+
Explore the calming and creative techniques of hand sewing and quilting to
express your stories and creativity in this warm and welcoming space for anyone interested in learning or advancing your skills in hand sewing. Attendees will participate in hands-on activities using accessible tools such as needle threaders and large eye needles, high contrast base materials and colorful patchwork materials for you to build your quilting squares with.
Whether you are a beginner and have never sewn or have experience with some crafts, you are all welcome! Build a textile that expresses your creativity and imagination while also connecting and sharing your stories, thoughts, and experiences.
All supplies needed for the workshop will be provided. If you are an experienced sewist, quilter, knitter, or other fiber artist, feel free to bring something to show.
Happy Hour
4:00 PM
Target Audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees 18+ (legal drinking age 21+)
Join us for a casual and social Happy Hour for Adults with Albinism on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Each day will feature two different nearby establishments to choose from, all located within one mile of the conference hotel.
Attendees will meet in the hotel lobby and walk together to their chosen location. Attendees are free to return to the hotel on their own at the end of the session or stay longer to enjoy time with friends.
Come connect, relax, and enjoy a fun afternoon together!
Friday Options:
- Bakersfield Short North
- Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails
Attendees will pay their own food and beverage costs at the establishments.
NOAH PWA Choir Rehearsal
3:30 – 5:00 PM
Target Audience: PWAs age 12+
Are you a PWA age 12 or older who loves to sing? Whether you perform in a choir or band, sing along to your favorite songs, or simply enjoy music, this session invites you to raise your voice and connect with other PWAs through song.
The first PWA NOAH Choir made its debut at NOAHCon 2018, and we’re excited for the choir’s fifth opportunity to perform at NOAHCon 2026.
Indicate interest on your NOAHCon registration form. Participants will receive an email with additional details and a link to download practice materials in early May.
Zoombezi Bay (and Adventure Cove)*
5:15 – 11:00 PM
*$50 per person
Target Audience: Everyone
Make a splash at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Adventure Cove and Zoombezi Bay during Adventure Nights on Friday evening for a high-energy night of water rides, music, and summer fun! Dive into a lively atmosphere with two DJs—one keeping the waves moving at the wave pool and another bringing the vibes to Baboon Lagoon.
Bring your swimsuit, bring your energy, and get ready for a night of splashing, dancing, and fun under the lights!
The bus will depart the hotel at 5:15pm and arrive at Zoombezi Bay at approximately 6:00pm. The bus will depart Zoombezi Bay at 10:15pm and return to the hotel at approximately 11:00pm.
Movie Night – featuring “Wicked: Part I” (2024)*
7:00 – 10:00 PM
*$2 per person
Target Audience: Everyone
Join us for a cozy movie Night on Friday evening as we enjoy a showing of Wicked. Come relax, unwind, and enjoy a fun night at the movies with fellow attendees and their families.
Feel free to settle in and enjoy the show together!
Movie runs 2hrs and 40 minutes – there will be two, 10 minute, “intermissions”
This movie has a PG-rating and is recommended for ages 10+. Parents should consider their child’s sensitivity to themes like bullying, injustice, and loss.
Trivia Night
11:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Target Audience: Adults 18+
Join us for Trivia Night, a fun and friendly team-based competition for adults 18 and up! Form a team with friends or join one when you arrive, and put your collective knowledge to the test across a variety of topics.
Whether you’re aiming to win or just in it for laughs, come enjoy an energetic evening of teamwork, trivia, and connection.
TEEN Karaoke Night
10:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Target Audience: Tweens & Teens enrolled in the Rubies or Emeralds
Grab the mic and bring your best (or bravest!) performance to Karaoke Night, open all of our Rubies and Emeralds. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just in it for laughs, this is a relaxed, supportive space to sing along, cheer on friends, and enjoy a night of music and fun.
Solo acts, duets, and group sing-alongs are all welcome—no pressure, just good vibes and great company!
This event may include loud music, microphones, cheering, and bright or flashing lights. The space may also become crowded at times. If you are sensitive to noise, lighting, or busy environments, please plan accordingly.
SATURDAY
Art Exhibit – “Unlimited Vision”
On display Friday & Saturday during conference programming. Meet with the featured artists on Saturday, during the Adult Program lunch.
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism
We are excited to bring back the NOAH Conference Art Show for its second exhibit, following its debut in Kansas City in 2018. This year’s theme, “Unlimited Vision,” celebrates the limitless creativity and lived experiences of Adults with Albinism.
The exhibit features original works across a range of media including painting, fiber arts, sculpture, photography, and more. In addition to viewing the artwork, attendees will have opportunities to connect with featured artists and participate in hands-on creative activities such as quilting and embroidery.
Please note: Adults with albinism expressing interest on their NOAHCon Registration form will receive further instructions to submit artwork for consideration. Attendees must register by May 24, 2026 to be eligible.
Coffee Hour
7:30 – 8:30 AM
Free to join – bring your own beverage
Target Audience: Adults 18+
Join us for a relaxed Coffee Hour for adults 18+ on Friday and Saturday mornings. This is a great opportunity to connect, enjoy conversation, and start the day together.
You can purchase grab-and-go coffee at:
Provisions on High (Tower 401)
The Market (Tower 402)
We will meet at the couches under the escalators in Tower 402 on the lobby level. (Location subject to change, depending on group size.)
Sip, chat, and ease into the morning!
Don’t forget to wear your NOAHCon badge!
Mixxedfit With Jackie
7:30 – 8:30 AM
Target Audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees 18+
Get up and get movin’! Mixxedfit is a people inspired dance fitness program that combines explosive dance movements and body weight toning.
All ages and fitness levels are welcome! If you like to dance, join Jackie to jumpstart your morning!
Don’t forget your water bottle! Suggested attire: clothing and footwear appropriate for workouts.
“A Closer Look at LEGO” (LEGO®Build)*
12:45 – 1:45 PM
*$16.50 per LEGO set
Target Audience: Adults with Albinism
Whether you’re discovering a new hobby or already love LEGO®, this hands-on session is for you. Join your fellow PWA pals to socialize, learn how to navigate the LEGO Builder app, explore 3D building instructions, and create something you’ll be proud to take away from the experience.
Pre-registration is required! Registration includes purchase LEGO® set. (*Attendees may purchase more than one set.) LEGO® will be distributed at the start of the session.
Happy Hour
4:00 PM
Target Audience: PWAs preferred, but open to all attendees 18+ (legal drinking age 21+)
Join us for a casual and social Happy Hour for Adults with Albinism on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Each day will feature two different nearby establishments to choose from, all located within one mile of the conference hotel.
Attendees will meet in the hotel lobby and walk together to their chosen location. Attendees are free to return to the hotel on their own at the end of the session or stay longer to enjoy time with friends.
Come connect, relax, and enjoy a fun afternoon together!
Saturday Options:
- The Barrel & Bottle
- Pins Mechanical
Attendees will pay their own food and beverage costs at the establishments.
NOAH PWA Choir Rehearsal
3:30 – 5:00 PM
Target Audience: PWAs age 12+
Are you a PWA age 12 or older who loves to sing? Whether you perform in a choir or band, sing along to your favorite songs, or simply enjoy music, this session invites you to raise your voice and connect with other PWAs through song.
The first PWA NOAH Choir made its debut at NOAHCon 2018, and we’re excited for the choir’s fifth opportunity to perform at NOAHCon 2026.
Indicate interest on your NOAHCon registration form. Participants will receive an email with additional details and a link to download practice materials in early May.
Saturday Night Party & Dessert Reception with DJ and Silent Auction
7:30 – 10:30 PM
Target Audience: Everyone
Let’s party!! Gather with your NOAH besties and join us for some NOAH family fun you won’t want to miss. Enjoy some delicious desserts as DJ Boston plays tunes that are guaranteed to get you outta your seat!
While hanging out with your crew, don’t forget to stop by the NOAHCon Silent Auction and place your bid to take home some fantastic finds! Bidding will close at 9pm sharp – don’t miss out on some great deals!
Karaoke Night
10:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Target Audience: Adults 18+
Grab the mic and bring your best (or bravest!) performance to Karaoke Night, open to adults ages 18 and up. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just in it for laughs, this is a relaxed, supportive space to sing along, cheer on friends, and enjoy a night of music and fun.
Solo acts, duets, and group sing-alongs are all welcome—no pressure, just good vibes and great company!
This event may include loud music, microphones, cheering, and varying or flashing lights. The space may also become crowded at times. If you are sensitive to noise, lighting, or busy environments, please plan accordingly.
SUNDAY
NOAH PWA Choir Rehearsal & Photo
8:15 – 8:45 AM
Target Audience: PWAs age 12+
Are you a PWA age 12 or older who loves to sing? Whether you perform in a choir or band, sing along to your favorite songs, or simply enjoy music, this session invites you to raise your voice and connect with other PWAs through song.
The first PWA NOAH Choir made its debut at NOAHCon 2018, and we’re excited for the choir’s fifth opportunity to perform at NOAHCon 2026.
Indicate interest on your NOAHCon registration form. Participants will receive an email with additional details and a link to download practice materials in early May.