Tips for First Time Convention Attendees

Whether it’s your first AMTA Convention or the first time you’ve attended a conference ever, here are some tips to prep you for the AMTA 2020 National Convention!

AMTA 2020 National Convention

Tips for Registering for AMTA 2020 National Convention

What is Convention again?

The AMTA 2020 National Convention is the largest and most prestigious event in the massage therapy community, and will take place on August 27 – 29 in Phoenix, AZ. 

Get Access to the Highest Quality CE in the Massage Profession

Choose from 30+ courses and earn a year’s worth of CE at AMTA 2020 National Convention. Our continuing education is rigorously vetted, meaning we take extra steps to submit for CE approval to NCBTMB and each state as required. 

You can earn up to 16+ massage therapy continuing education credits at Convention (also called CEs or CEUs). This means if you attend Thursday, August 27 through Saturday, August 29, and choose courses with the maximum number of hours you will earn 16 CE credits.

What is the “+” in “16+”? 

There are two pre-convention workshops offered on Wednesday, August 26. Techniques for Sports Massage Therapists is worth 8.5 credit hours, and Massage Therapy for Neck, Shoulder, and Upper Extremity Pain is worth 8 credit hours. There is an additional fee to register for these workshops. 

Speaking of fees, how much does it cost?

AMTA members save on the cost of registration! You’ll pay just $395 for the full convention when you register before July 9. That price increases on July 10 so register early!

If you are not a member the full convention will cost you $530, OR you can pay just a little more to register and join AMTA for $574—a savings of $191 off the cost of both combined! Learn more. 

You also have options for single-day and exhibit hall passes. You can review those details on our registration page. 

Making Your Registration Selections

Education sessions do fill up quickly, especially the hands-on courses. It’s important to register early to ensure you get your first choice of sessions.

As you are choosing courses be sure to check the course descriptions for any materials required. The description will indicate whether you need a table, so plan to bring your own or share if you select those courses.

If it will be your first AMTA National Convention, you will receive complimentary entry to the First Timers Luncheon on Thursday, August 27! Even though it’s free, you must add this to your registration so we know how many people to expect.

In addition to the CE sessions, your registration will include full access to the Exhibit Hall. Mark your calendar for Thursday night’s Opening Night Reception on August 27 (more free food!).

You’ll also get one ticket to the Dinner Dance which takes place on Saturday, August 29. You’ll have to make an entree selection when you register. Bringing a friend or partner? Additional tickets are available for purchase.

View all Convention Education Sessions »


OK, I’ve registered! Now what?

Book your room at the host hotel to secure your spot in the ultimate hub of convention activity! Details on booking your hotel and more tips travel to and around Phoenix is on the Hotel & Travel page. 

Check out the other special events and social opportunities that will take place during the week of Convention. 

View Convention Hotel & Travel »


Tips for While At AMTA 2020 National Convention

Here are a few things you may want to pack:

  • Attire is business casual. Plan to dress in layers, including a sweater/light jacket, since meeting room temperatures can vary.
  • Business cards! If you don’t have any yet, use your Office Depot / OfficeMax member discount or Vistaprint discount to get some printed.
  • Notebook and pens to take notes
  • Some snacks and a refillable water bottle to keep in your bag

Badges must be worn at all times on-site including for the Opening Session on Thursday morning. This means you’ll need to plan to pick-up your registration packet on Wednesday or early Thursday.

When you pick up your registration packet and badge you’ll also get a complimentary tote bag to carry your free samples from the Exhibit Hall!

Once you get your registration packet, verify that your course tickets are all included and accurate. If not, it’s OK! Just stop by the registration desk and our staff will be happy to help! 

Download the Convention app when it’s available closer to Convention time (registered attendees will receive an email when it’s available). 

Ready to attend?

Don’t miss the largest conference for massage therapists!

Register for Convention »

Still have some questions?

If you’re on the fence or have more questions that are not addressed here, feel free to call us at 1-877-905-2700 or email convention@amtamassage.org


Learn More about Convention

Explore Phoenix during Convention »

Earn 16+ CE credits during AMTA 2020 National Convention »

Book Hotel and Travel for Convention »