Earlybird Pricing Ends In
Connect. Imagine. Innovate. With your NCTC community at The Independent Show
Experience the magic that happens when the power of our community meets the force of innovation.
Get Inspired
Fresh ideas, bold perspectives, and visionary thinking to spark your next move
Connect
Meaningful conversations with partners and peers that drive momentum
Innovate
Turn imagination into action through sessions, insights, and real‑world solutions
High-Tech
Explore advanced tools and emerging technologies transforming the way we operate
Marketing Focus
Strategies, trends, and tools to elevate your customers’ experience
Disney Magic
Immersive networking experiences crafted with creativity and memorable moments
About TIS 2026
Bringing together NCTC Members and Partners to build what’s next. Sessions are purpose-built for our members and focused on practical strategies and solutions that small and mid‑sized operations can effectively implement.
Where is The Independent Show 2026?
Disney Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center in Lake Buena Vista, FL
Sessions Built for Independent Operators
Content designed specifically for the needs and realities of NCTC member operators.
Signature Networking Meals & Events
From shared meals to unforgettable evenings, it’s all included with registration.
Agenda Highlights
Marketing Innovators Group Pre-Conference
Marketing Innovators Group start your TIS 2026 experience with a full day of insights, dynamic speakers, collaboration, and practical marketing strategies alongside NCTC member peers.
User Groups
Led by NCTC Premier Partners, these focused user group sessions allow members to attend multiple discussions focused on the programs and services they use today and learn from peers.
Welcome Party at EPCOT Pavilion
Experience all four Disney parks in one unforgettable night, featuring distinct park‑inspired experiences, exceptional food and beverages, and the magic of Disney brought to life exclusively for TIS attendees.
General Session with Keynote Noelle Russell
Hear from AI innovator Noelle Russell, a four‑time Microsoft Responsible AI MVP with leadership experience at Microsoft, AWS, IBM, NPR and Amazon Alexa, as she shares practical insights on scaling responsible AI.
Dinner, Awards & Entertainment
Celebrate industry excellence with an elevated dining experience and an evening dedicated to recognition, connection, and community
Private After‑Hours Event: Toy Story Land
Enjoy private access to Toy Story Land with shorter waits for fan favorite rides, music, drinks, and a playful atmosphere perfect for unforgettable networking and memories.
General Session
Power your business strategy with cross‑generational insights from Tuesday’s keynotes featuring David and Jonah Stillman, plus panels exploring how generational perspectives drive innovation.
Lunch with Entertainment
Recharge during a plated luncheon featuring entertainment and shared conversation designed to inspire and energize your afternoon.
Breakout Sessions
Join focused breakout sessions covering key industry topics, each led by seasoned experts. Connect with fellow NCTC members and walk away with practical strategies you can apply right away.
General Session
Stay informed on the latest policy and regulatory developments that matter most with insights from ACA Connects.
General Session
This closing session brings the full TIS experience together, connecting key themes and insights into an actionable roadmap members can apply immediately. Leave with clarity, direction, and inspiration for what’s next, regardless of your organization’s size or stage
Members Register Early and Save
Your all-access registration includes meals, cocktails and signature events.
Earlybird
$850
Price Ends April 24
- All-Access Pass
- Keynote Speakers
- Member-Focused Breakouts
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Happy Hours & Open Bars
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
Standard
$950
Price Ends July 17
- All-Access Pass
- Keynote Speakers
- Member-Focused Breakouts
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Happy Hours & Open Bars
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
Last Chance
$1,100
Includes Purchase At Event
- All-Access Pass
- Keynote Speakers
- Member-Focused Breakouts
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Happy Hours & Open Bars
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
Bring Your Guests Along for the Magic!
You’re welcome to bring guests so they can enjoy the Disney experience while you attend the conference. Even better, with an NCTC guest pass, they can join you for our high‑caliber Disney evening events! Guests also receive access to conference-priced park tickets. Guest pass registration is available on the member/partner registration confirmation page.
Adult 21+
$400: Early Bird Ends April 24
$425: Standard Ends July 17
$450: Last Chance
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
- Exhibit Hall
- Happy Hours & Open Bars
Ages 13-20
$250: Early Bird Ends April 24
$275: Standard Ends July 17
$300: Last Chance
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
Ages 4-12
$150: Early Bird Ends April 24
$175: Standard Ends July 17
$200: Last Chance
- Breakfast & Lunch Daily
- EPCOT Welcome Party/Dinner
- Plated Award Dinner/Entertainment
- Private Toy Story After-Hours Event
- Conference Priced Park Ticket Access
- Special Nickelodeon Party
Marketing Innovators Group (MIG)
Special pre‑conference, all‑day event for members interested in marketing strategy and growth.
Connect with peers to share ideas, challenges, and real‑world marketing experiences. MIG creates space for focused conversation and learning that strengthens marketing strategy across independent operators.
Begin Your TIS Event a Day Early with MIG
- Arrive Saturday afternoon for an exclusive MIG networking event that evening
- The MIG conference is all day Sunday
- Expect a full day of marketing trends, best practices, and dynamic speakers
- Add MIG to your registration at check‑out (Cost: $250)
Sponsors
Secure your spot early to gain direct access to decision‑makers through one of the industry’s most strategic event investments this summer. Engage meaningfully, stand out in a competitive market, and drive results that last. Sponsorship packages are limited and available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Support NCTC Members: Sponsor and Exhibit
TIS 2026 brings together a highly engaged community of industry leaders, innovators, and decision‑makers—creating an environment where you can support members and drive mutual success.
Ready to explore partnership opportunities at TIS 2026?
- Showcase solutions that strengthen member partnerships
- Connect during dedicated exhibitor hall hours
- Build relationships in a relaxed, memorable setting
- Enjoy an all‑inclusive experience that keeps you focused on what matters
Yacht Club Convention Center
Lake Buena Vista, FL
July 26 - 29, 2026
Walt Disney World
1,000 Available Seats
Register now & save
All-Access Pass
Includes Meals, Cocktails & EventsPlan your trip!
Important Considerations When Planning Travel.
Marketing Teams
Arrive Saturday afternoon, July 25, for an evening MIG networking event. All-day MIG conference begins Sunday morning.
All Attendees
Arrive Sunday afternoon, July 26, in time for afternoon user groups, followed by receptions, and EPCOT® Welcome Party.
Departure Planning
Plan your return travel for the afternoon or evening of Wednesday, July 29. The conference ends at noon.
Hotel Information
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
Experience Nantucket‑inspired, New England–style waterfront resorts, with both the refined Yacht Club and relaxed Beach Club just steps from EPCOT®.
Important details
- Sessions and Exhibit Hall will take place inside the Yacht and Beach Club Convention Center.
- Address: 1750 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
- Room Block Deadline: June 26, 2026
- Starting room rate is $304/night + taxes and fees.
Walt Disney World: Know Before You Go
Note: Disney Parks tickets are not available through NCTC or ACA Connects, and special conference tickets can only be purchased via this dedicated Disney Link.
Disney Parks Tips
Disney Experience App
our event gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions, we have answers.