What to Expect at ESTO
ESTO programming is designed for experienced destination leaders who want more than theory. You will jump into bold content, fresh learning formats and plenty of chances to connect with people who actually speak your language. Everything is built to give you insights you can use the minute you get home. Expect real case studies, honest lessons learned and practical takeaways that help you level up fast.
When Should You Arrive and Depart?
Arrive: Late morning Sunday, August 23
Sunday is when the action starts. Arrive before noon, jump into Beyond the Classroom Experiences and join the Opening Reception that does not hold back.
Depart: The afternoon of Wednesday, August 26
All good things must come to an end! ESTO 2026 will wrap up with main stage programming, officially closing at 12 p.m.
Bonus: Want more time to explore and learn? Consider staying a few extra days to enjoy everything Philadelphia has to offer.
Schedule at a Glance
+ Sunday, August 23
| 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | NCSTD Boot Camp* |
| 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. | NCSTD Lunch and Meeting* |
| 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Beyond the Classroom (optional) |
| 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Opening Reception |
| 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. | NCSTD Dinner* |
*Invitation only
+ Monday, August 24
| 7:30a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | ESTO Cares |
| 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Peer-to-Peer Roundtables |
| 10:45 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. | Opening Session |
| 12:30 p.m. – 1:20 p.m. | Networking Lunch |
| 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Programming |
+ Tuesday, August 25
| 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Main Stage Programming |
| 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. | Programming |
| 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Networking Lunch |
| 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Main Stage Programming |
| 2:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. | Programming |
| 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | ESTO 2026 Awards Ceremony and Celebration |
+ Wednesday, August 26
| 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. | Programming |
| 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Main Stage Programming |