With more than 100 sessions, dozens of receptions, and a week full of walking between them—NCSL can get overwhelming fast. So we pulled together the events we’re most excited about. Some are serious. Some are just fun. All are worth making time for.
- The Ultimate Boston Pre-Game
🗓 Monday, August 4 | 4–7 PM
📍 The Greatest Bar (next to TD Garden)Before Canal Street fills up and TD Garden kicks off the official celebration, we’re hosting a pre-party that’s part networking, part Skee-Ball tournament. It includes free Sam Adams, a cannoli showdown, and some lighthearted Boston flair—plus a good crowd of policymakers and legislative staff from across the country.
- The Opening Celebration at TD Garden
After the pre-game, head right into NCSL’s welcome event—starting with Canal Street and ending at the home of the Celtics and Bruins. This year’s kickoff celebrates NCSL’s 50th anniversary with music, food, and plenty of energy.
- The Fun Run at Castle Island
🗓 Tuesday, August 5 | 6:30 a.m.
A 5K run or walk along Boston’s scenic Castle Island waterfront, led by Olympian Meb Keflezighi. It’s a great way to connect with colleagues before the sessions start—and the views are worth the early wake-up.
- General Session: The Great Political Realignment
🗓 Tuesday, August 5 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Amy Walter of The Cook Political Report brings sharp, data-driven insight into where the electorate is headed post-2024—and what that means for public policy in the next several cycles. One of the most anticipated conversations of the week.
- General Session: The Challenge of Change
🗓 Tuesday, August 5 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Shankar Vedantam, host of Hidden Brain, will unpack the unconscious behaviors that drive institutional change—or block it. His work is grounded in behavioral science and offers fresh thinking on how state governments adapt to new challenges.
- Massachusetts Night at the Charlestown Navy Yard
🗓 Tuesday, August 5 | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
A chance to explore one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods—with pier-side views, reenactments, and the rare opportunity to board the USS Constitution and USS Cassin Young. Food, drinks, and history all in one place.
- Closing General Session with Leslie Odom Jr.
🗓 Wednesday, August 6 | 3:15–4:30 p.m.
The Tony and Grammy Award–winning performer will close the conference with reflections on creativity, leadership, and finding purpose in your work. An inspiring and unexpected way to wrap up a policy-focused week.
- The Closing Concert: Boston Pops & Boyz II Men
🗓 Wednesday, August 6 | 6:30–9:00 p.m.
An outdoor concert at Leader Bank Pavilion, right on the water. The Boston Pops will open the evening, followed by a full set from Boyz II Men. It’s an energizing, celebratory finish to the Summit.
If you’ll be in Boston, we’d love to see you—especially at the Pre-Game. Register early to make sure you’re on the list. And if you’re not sure where to start with the schedule, these eight events are a great place to begin.