Downtown Matters Conference
July 16-17, 2026 • The Orpheum Theater, Downtown Flagstaff
Join downtown leaders, planners, policymakers, and placemaking professionals for a two-day conference exploring why downtowns matter and how vibrant urban centers drive economic vitality, community
connection, and long-term resilience.
The event features keynote speakers Joe Minicozzi (Urban3), Charles Marohn (Strong Towns), and Jon Jon Wesolowski (The Happy Urbanist), along with expert panels, fresh ideas, and curated downtown experiences.
Conference Schedule:
Thursday, July 16 | 8:30am-4:00pm
- Networking Breakfast
- Opening Keynote - To Be Announced
- Whitney Hoffman Sayal - Executive Director Downtown Baton Rouge
- Lunch
- Cary Tyson - Executive Director Downtown Portland, ME - Public Realm Investment and Activation
- Keynote - Jon Jon Wesolowski - The Happy Urbanist - Enhancing The Pedestrian Experience
- Keynote - Charles Marohn - The Strong Towns Approach
Friday, July 17 | 8:30am-4:00pm
- Networking Breakfast
- Kimber Lanning - Local First Arizona
- Local Leaders - Downtown Community and What It Means to Them
- Lunch
- Kevin Blanchard - CEO Downtown Development Authority Lafayette, LA
- Cathleen Edgerly - Executive Director, Downtown Lansing, MI - The Role of Downtowns in Economic Development
- Closing Keynote - Joe Minicozzi - Urban3 - Geoaccounting
Networking & Optional Activities
Early Check-In & Welcome Gathering
Wednesday, July 15 | 5:00pm – 7:00pm | Oeno Wine Lounge
Arriving early? Join us for an informal welcome gathering at Oeno Wine Lounge the evening before the conference begins. It's a great opportunity to get acquainted with fellow attendees, make connections, and start conversations before sessions kick off.
Conference attendees can enjoy local wine, cocktails, and special discounts by showing their conference lanyard.
Downtown Matters Happy Hour
Thursday, July 16 | 5:00pm – 7:00pm | Annex Cocktail Lounge
After a day of conference sessions, continue the conversation at our Downtown Matters Happy Hour. Attendees are invited to gather at Annex Cocktail Lounge for networking, drinks, and food in a relaxed downtown setting.
Enjoy Flagstaff's beautiful summer weather and mountain air on the patio while connecting with fellow attendees and speakers. A full food and beverage menu will be available.
Optional Downtown Walking Tour
Thursday, July 16 | Hosted by Freaky Foot Tours
Looking to experience Downtown Flagstaff beyond the conference? Freaky Foot Tours will be offering a custom walking tour exclusively for Downtown Matters attendees following Thursday's sessions.
The tour will begin at the Orpheum Theater and conclude at Annex Cocktail Lounge for the conference happy hour. Along the way, attendees will explore Downtown Flagstaff's history, Route 66 heritage, public art, and murals while learning more about the stories and character that make our downtown unique.
Tour registration information coming soon.
Staying Downtown:
Traveling to Flagstaff for Downtown Matters? We've secured a discounted room block at the Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff, located in the heart of downtown and less than a block from the conference venue.
Special Conference Rate: $199/night
Booking Deadline: July 1, 2026
We recommend reserving your room as soon as possible to take advantage of the discounted rate.
Reserve your room here!
Tickets:
*Your ticket includes breakfast and lunch on both days, as well as access to all sessions
For group rates, email info@downtownflagstaff.org
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