2026 CalFresh Forum September 24, 2026
Register for the 2026 CalFresh Forum!
Location: California Ballroom
(1736 Franklin St, Oakland, CA 94612)
Date: Thursday, September 24
Time: 9:30am - 4pm; registration starts at 8:00am
Registration is now open for the 2026 CalFresh Forum!
For the first time ever, we are entering into the CalFresh Forum with a theme: We Imagine, We Act. Join us in-person in Oakland on Thursday, September 24 to imagine food justice beyond the constraints of what we are told is politically possible. But these ideas can’t remain in our imagination. As stated by writer and educator Ruha Benjamin, imagination must be combined with strategizing and organizing to make our vision a reality. This year’s CalFresh Forum will be a place for both imagination and action to begin.
Registration has been extended until September 10, 2026.
Scroll down to find more information around logistics, travel, and ticket category.
Registration has now closed.
Logistics
At the CalFresh Forum, we will enjoy a grounding keynote presentation, community-submitted sessions, and the Freshy Awards. Breakfast and lunch will be provided!
A full agenda packet will be shared closer to the date. You can preview the 2026 CalFresh Forum agenda packet to get a sneak peek of the sessions that will be offered this year.
Travel
If you are flying in from out of town, we recommend flying into the Oakland airport (OAK). It’s just 15-20 minutes from our venue!
We’re offering a special discounted hotel rate for Forum attendees at a nearby hotel. You can book a hotel room at the Sonesta Emeryville (5555 Shellmound Street, Emeryville, CA 94608) at a discounted price by using our link here: Book Here. There is a limited number of discounted rooms available, so please book quickly!
Ticket Category
Which ticket category are you?
- Student or Community Member: Individuals who are responsible for paying out-of-pocket for their ticket
- Regular Ticket: All other ticket types
*A full fee waiver is available upon request; no application or questions asked. Contact us at calfreshforum@nourishca.org.*
Questions? Check out our FAQ or contact calfreshforum@nourishca.org.