Celebrating 90 Years of Sobriety: Your Guide to the 2025 International A.A. Convention in Vancouver
Posted by John Gall on
As the 90th anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) approaches, it's time to mark your calendars for an unforgettable event. The 2025 International A.A. Convention is set to take place in the picturesque city of Vancouver, BC, Canada, from July 3rd to 6th, 2025. This milestone event promises to be a beacon of inspiration, fellowship, and growth for attendees from across the globe.
Event Highlights:
-
Location and Dates: The convention will be hosted in Vancouver, BC, Canada, providing a breathtaking backdrop for celebrating 90 years of sobriety. The convention dates are July 3rd to 6th, 2025, offering a four-day period packed with enriching sessions, speaker meetings, workshops, and fellowship.
-
Theme: The heart of the convention beats with the theme "90 Years – Language of the Heart," encapsulating the essence of A.A.'s profound journey and the power of heartfelt connections among its members.
-
A.A. in Canada: While this is not the first time Canada has welcomed the A.A. community, the 2025 International Convention continues a tradition of hosting A.A. events on Canadian soil. Past conventions have been held in Toronto (1965), Montreal (1985), and Toronto again (2005), with the Responsibility Statement originating from the 1965 Toronto convention.
Travel and Entry Information:
For those planning to attend, there are essential details to consider regarding travel and entry:
-
Travel Regulations: Both the U.S. and Canada have specific regulations and restrictions for travelers crossing their borders. It's important to be aware of these changes, especially considering recent developments over the past two years. For comprehensive information, visit the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website or refer to the provided links.
-
Entry Assistance: If you have concerns about past legal incidents such as DUIs or felonies that might affect your entry into Canada, it's recommended to access the resources provided by the CBSA. These resources will help you understand potential issues and the steps you can take to address them.
-
General Travel Information: While the International Convention assignment at GSO might not be active yet, you can find a wealth of information to aid your travel plans on the CBSA website. Additionally, a travel book on Canada can offer insights into necessary documents, border crossing requirements, and valuable vacation tips.
- Commemorative Convention Medallions: Recoverychip.com and Wendells have both created AA International Convention 2025 Medallions in Bronze and Color. Both are Unofficial items but make great gifts for yourself or others.
Registration and Housing:
For those eagerly awaiting registration and housing details, here's what you need to know:
-
Registration Opening: General registration and housing information will be available on the International Convention webpage in early 2024. Keep an eye out for updates and announcements on the official convention website.
-
Links and Forms: Actual registration site links, forms, and hotel booking information will be shared with the Fellowship in August/September 2024. Plan ahead and ensure you secure your spot at this momentous event.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
A.A.'s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is a driving force behind the decision to rotate the International Convention between the U.S. and Canada. By providing opportunities for members from both countries to attend, A.A. ensures that geographical barriers don't hinder the celebration of sobriety. The Vancouver Visitors and Convention Bureau has assured A.A. of their support in welcoming and cooperating with attendees for the 2025 International Convention.
Mark your calendars, gather your fellow A.A. members, and prepare for an inspiring journey to Vancouver in 2025. The 90th anniversary International Convention promises to be a celebration of A.A.'s enduring legacy, the language of the heart, and the incredible journey of recovery. Stay connected, plan ahead, and get ready to be part of a transformative experience.
