FAQ for the 2026 NERFA Conference
November 12 - 15, 2026, Albany, NY
NERFA Annual Conference 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When and where is the conference being held?
The 2026 NERFA Annual Conference will take place from Thursday, November 12 to Sunday, November 15, 2026, at The Desmond Hotel Crowne Plaza Albany, NY.
Who should attend the NERFA Conference?
Performing artists, presenters, managers, agents, music industry professionals, and anyone involved in the folk and roots music scene.
How do I register?
Registration is open! Visit the following link to complete the process.
What’s included in my registration?
Access to all speakers, workshops, showcases, networking events and hosted receptions.
What is the cost?
Price by Date
FAI Members
Non-Members
Good Until June 30, 2026
Good Until October 11, 2026
Good After October 12, 2026
Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?
Refunds will be honored on the following timeline below. All refunds will be subject to a $50 processing fee.
- Cancellations received on or before Friday, October 9, 2026 will receive a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee.
- Cancellations received between October 9, 2026 and October 23, 2026 will receive a 50% refund.
- Cancellations received after October 23, 2026 are non-refundable.
Where should I stay?
The host hotel is The Desmond Hotel Crowne Plaza Albany. The room block details are below:
Group Room Rate: $169
Book Hotel Reservations by: October 20, 2026.
Book Online: here
Book by Phone: 1-518-869-8100 (mention NERFA)
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, there is plenty of complimentary self parking.
What’s the nearest airport?
Albany International Airport (ALB), about 10 minutes from the venue. A free shuttle to the hotel is available.
Is the hotel pet friendly?
Pets are welcome at Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel. There is a pet deposit per stay of 0 USD . Our Pet Policy: Service animals and small pets under 95 lbs are allowed. Limit one pet per room. 75 pet fee applies per our Pet Agreement. Pets cannot be left unattended and are not allowed in our courtyard or restaurant. Additional fees may apply.
Is there a shuttle?
Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel offers complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to the Albany Airport, and within a 3 mile radius of the hotel. Please contact our front desk staff to arrange pick up and drop off.
Call +1-800-448-350
Will there be a conference app?
Yes, including full schedule, speaker bios, networking features, and updates.
What is the dress code?
Casual, with some evening events potentially more festive.
Are meals provided?
We will have a welcome reception and light breaks throughout the conference. Most meals are the responsibility of the attendee. There is a meal package for dinners/breakfasts that can be purchased. Details can be found at this link.
Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes, including structured and informal events.
Is the conference accessible?
Yes, with ADA compliance. Contact us for specific requests.
How can I become a sponsor or exhibitor?
Email katie@riggsand.com for packages and availability.
What are the exhibitor hours?
Thursday, Friday and Saturday 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
How are artists and speakers selected?
Through open application and proposal review.
Can I submit a proposal to speak or showcase?
Yes. Submit your proposal with the link below. All proposals need to be in by June 1.
How do I stay updated?
Join our email list, follow us on social, and check the website.