Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The OTAC Annual Conference & Expo is a premier event for occupational therapy professionals, taking place from November 5-8, 2026, at the Hilton Pasadena in Pasadena, USA.
This conference will celebrate OTAC's 50th anniversary and provide educational opportunities for practitioners.
OTAC Annual Conference & Expo takes place in Pasadena, USA.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: The OTAC Annual Conference & Expo runs from November 5-8, 2026, at Hilton Pasadena, California, USA.
- 2Scale and Focus: This premier event celebrates OTAC's 50th anniversary, bringing together occupational therapy professionals for education and networking.
- 3Organiser: Hosted by the Occupational Therapy Association of California, more details can be found at otaconline.org.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include occupational therapists, educators, and students, all influential in the field of occupational therapy.
- 5Entry / Access: Registration is available online, with various educational sessions and networking opportunities planned throughout the event.
Why visit
Attending the OTAC Annual Conference & Expo offers valuable insights into the latest trends and practices in occupational therapy. Dates and Venue: The OTAC Annual Conference & Expo runs from November 5-8, 2026, at Hilton Pasadena, California, USA. Scale and Focus: This premier event celebrates OTAC's 50th anniversary, bringing together occupational therapy professionals for education and networking. Buyer Authority: Attendees include occupational therapists, educators,.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at the OTAC Annual Conference & Expo provides companies with direct access to a targeted audience of occupational therapy professionals. Buyer Authority: Attendees include occupational therapists, educators, and students, all influential in the field of occupational therapy. The OTAC Annual Conference & Expo is crucial for advancing occupational therapy practices and education, providing a platform for professionals to share knowledge and innovations.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Occupational therapists seeking continuing education and professional development.
Students pursuing degrees in occupational therapy looking for networking opportunities.
Educators and researchers interested in the latest trends and practices in occupational therapy.
Healthcare professionals exploring interdisciplinary collaboration in occupational therapy.
Policy makers and advocates focused on occupational therapy legislation and advocacy.
Corporate representatives from companies providing products and services to the occupational therapy field.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Companies offering occupational therapy products and services.
Educational institutions providing occupational therapy programs.
Healthcare organizations seeking to collaborate with occupational therapy professionals.
Technology firms developing tools for occupational therapy practice.
Publishers of occupational therapy literature and resources.
Consultants specializing in occupational therapy practices and policies.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Therapeutic equipment and supplies for occupational therapy.
Educational materials and resources for occupational therapy practitioners.
Assistive technology for enhancing patient care in occupational therapy.
Software solutions for practice management in occupational therapy.
Continuing education programs and certifications for occupational therapists.
Research publications and journals focused on occupational therapy advancements.
Location & Facilities
Venue
Hilton Pasadena
Pasadena, USA
Facilities
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Hilton Pasadena in Pasadena typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Hilton Pasadena for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Ticket info
Ticket notes
For detailed ticket pricing and registration information, please visit the official registration page.
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Pasadena, USA
Why it matters
Attending OTAC Annual Conference & Expo on 2026-11-05 to 2026-11-08 in Pasadena lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
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Automation and labour efficiency
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Hybrid engagement models
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Market news
Latest updates from across the market.
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Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Hollywood Burbank
Hollywood Burbank (BUR) is the main commercial gateway serving Pasadena; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Hilton Pasadena.
to venue
by car
Los Angeles International
Los Angeles International (LAX) is the main commercial gateway serving Pasadena; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Hilton Pasadena.
to venue
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Budget
Pasadena / East Pasadena and along the Metro A Line corridorUSD 110–160 / night
Limited-service and motel-style options; a short drive or Metro ride from the venue. Confirm rates and cancellation terms before travel.
Mid-range
Pasadena / Old Town and DowntownUSD 180–260 / night
Courtyard, Residence Inn and Hyatt Place–style properties within walking distance of Old Town dining and the central meeting district. Confirm availability for conference dates before travel.
Premium
Pasadena / Downtown (host venue and central hotels)USD 280–420 / night
Hilton Pasadena and The Westin Pasadena; shortest walk to sessions and the Expo Hall. Confirm any conference room block and rates with the organiser before travel.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
rideshare / taxi
Estimated costUSD 40–70
Best forHollywood Burbank (BUR) to Hilton Pasadena
Shortest airport transfer; app-based pickup near the terminal. Confirm fare in-app before travel.
rideshare / taxi
Estimated costUSD 55–100
Best forLos Angeles International (LAX) to Hilton Pasadena
Allow extra time for Los Angeles traffic; shuttle and rail alternatives exist via Union Station. Confirm fare in-app before travel.
rail (Metro A Line)
Estimated costUSD 1.75 per boarding; day and multi-day passes available
Best forLos Angeles Union Station to Pasadena stations (Memorial Park / Del Mar)
From LAX, take the FlyAway bus to Union Station then transfer to the A Line. Keep a TAP card or contactless payment ready; confirm current fares on metro.net before travel.
airport shuttle (FlyAway)
Estimated costUSD 9–10 one way
Best forLAX to Los Angeles Union Station
Connects to the Metro A Line for onward travel to Pasadena; confirm schedule and fare before travel.
parking
Estimated costUSD 18–35 daily
Best forOn-site and nearby parking at Hilton Pasadena
Nearby public garages and lots serve downtown Pasadena and Old Town. Arrive early on peak conference mornings; confirm rates at the venue before travel.
Weather
Pasadena in November is mild and mostly dry, with daytime highs around 21-24 C (70-75 F) and cooler evenings near 10-12 C (50-54 F). Humidity is generally low and winds are light. Rain is possible but limited, so a light jacket or layer is useful for early mornings and evening sessions, and shoes suitable for walking between the Hilton Pasadena and Old Town are recommended.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The United States uses 120V/60Hz power with Type A and Type B plugs, so most European and UK visitors need a plug adapter. Mobile coverage (LTE/5G) is widespread across Pasadena and Los Angeles; check your home operator's roaming plan or buy a local prepaid SIM or eSIM on arrival at BUR or LAX. The Hilton Pasadena typically provides guest Wi-Fi, and conference venues usually offer Wi-Fi in meeting and Expo areas; confirm access details at check-in or the registration desk.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business dress
Business casual is typical at OTAC sessions and in the Expo Hall. Allied-health conferences tend to be more relaxed than corporate trade fairs, so smart-casual layers that work in air-conditioned meeting rooms are a good default.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in the United States. Restaurants usually expect 15-20 percent, and small tips are common for baristas, bartenders, and hotel housekeeping. Card readers often present suggested tip options.
Greetings and small talk
A handshake and first names are common in US professional settings. Brief small talk before getting to business is normal, and exchanging business cards or LinkedIn details after a session or booth conversation is standard.
Badges and access
Wear your OTAC badge throughout the conference; it governs access to education sessions and the Expo Hall. Arrive early on day one for registration and badge pickup at the Hilton Pasadena.
Exploring Pasadena
Old Town Pasadena, the Colorado Boulevard shopping district, and the South Lake Avenue area are central and walkable from the host venue, with restaurants and cafes for breaks between sessions. Confirm opening hours locally.
Local payments and etiquette
The US dollar is the local currency and cards are widely accepted, including at the venue. Some smaller vendors may prefer card or mobile payment over cash. Prices shown usually exclude sales tax, which is added at checkout.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: BUR
Book flights to Hollywood Burbank (BUR) when schedules and fares allow, because it gives the shortest transfer to the Hilton Pasadena. Compare Los Angeles International (LAX) if you need a wider choice of airlines or direct international routes, and budget extra ground time for LA traffic. Ontario International (ONT) is a secondary option east of the city. Because the conference runs 5-8 November 2026, book early around the weekend and Monday travel peaks, and confirm baggage, change, and cancellation terms before paying.
Hotels
Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-11-04
Check-out (recommended)
2026-11-08
Areas to stay
Pasadena / Downtown (host venue and central hotels) · Pasadena / East Pasadena and along the Metro A Line corridor · Pasadena / Old Town and Downtown
budget
USD 110-160/night
mid range
USD 180-260/night
premium
USD 280-420/night
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Hollywood Burbank (BUR): Hollywood Burbank (BUR) is the main commercial gateway serving Pasadena; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Hilton Pasadena.; Los Angeles International (LAX): Los Angeles International (LAX) is the main commercial gateway serving Pasadena; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Hilton Pasadena.. Allow road or rail time to Hilton Pasadena; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Hilton Pasadena: Pasadena / East Pasadena and along the Metro A Line corridor: Pasadena / East Pasadena and along the Metro A Line corridor; Pasadena / Old Town and Downtown: Pasadena / Old Town and Downtown; Pasadena / Downtown (host venue and central hotels): Pasadena / Downtown (host venue and central hotels).
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area. At LAX, app-based pickups are staged at the LAX-it lot, reached by shuttle or designated walkways; at BUR, pickup points are close to the terminal. Expect surge pricing during peak arrival and departure windows, and allow extra time on weekday mornings and evenings when freeway traffic builds. Confirm the pickup point in the app before you exit the terminal.
Public transit: Metro rail and bus connect Pasadena with downtown Los Angeles. The Metro A Line serves Pasadena stations including Memorial Park and Del Mar and links to Los Angeles Union Station, while Pasadena Transit operates local buses around the city. Fares are low, and a TAP card or contactless payment covers Metro services. From LAX, the FlyAway bus reaches Union Station, where you can transfer to the A Line for Pasadena. Confirm current lines, schedules, and fares on the LA Metro and Pasadena Transit websites before travel.
Parking: The Hilton Pasadena offers on-site parking for guests and event attendees, with daily rates that should be confirmed with the venue at check-in. Additional public garages and lots serve downtown Pasadena and Old Town within walking distance of the host venue. Arrive early on peak conference mornings, as nearby lots fill quickly during large events. Confirm current daily rates and any validation options before travel.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: Daytime approx. 21-24 C (70-75 F); evenings approx. 10-12 C (50-54 F)
Seasonality: November falls in Pasadena's cooler, drier season. Rain is possible but not frequent, and most days are sunny or partly cloudy with cooler nights. Carrying a compact umbrella is a low-cost precaution for occasional November showers.
Packing: Pack light layers for warm afternoons and cool evenings, a light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned meeting rooms, comfortable walking shoes for the Hilton Pasadena and Old Town area, sunglasses, and a compact umbrella in case of occasional November showers. Bring a refillable water bottle and any plug adapter you need for US Type A/B outlets.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at OTAC Annual Conference & Expo usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-21
Confirm your OTAC Annual Conference & Expo registration on otaconline.org and check whether member, non-member, or student pricing applies to you.
T-21
Reserve accommodation early. The Hilton Pasadena is the host venue, so staying on property removes a daily commute to the education sessions and the Expo Hall.
T-14
Book flights to Hollywood Burbank (BUR) where possible for the shortest transfer to Pasadena, and compare Los Angeles International (LAX) only if fares or schedules are materially better.
T-14
Download and print your badge confirmation and registration receipts; check the name exactly as it should appear on your badge.
T-10
Build a personal agenda from the OTAC conference programme: shortlist sessions across your practice area, such as paediatrics, adult physical rehabilitation, mental health, geriatrics, or hand therapy.
T-10
Shortlist Expo Hall exhibitors you want to meet, including assistive-technology, splinting and orthotic, treatment-equipment, documentation-software, and continuing-education providers.
T-7
Check your state licensure renewal cycle and any NBCOT or state CEU requirements so you can choose sessions that count toward your credits.
T-7
Confirm which pre-conference or specialty education sessions you plan to attend and whether any carry separate registration.
T-5
Arrange transport from BUR or LAX to the Hilton Pasadena, and pre-book any rental car, shuttle, or rideshare.
T-3
Pack for mild Pasadena November days: layers, business-casual attire, comfortable shoes for meeting rooms and the Expo Hall, and a refillable water bottle.
T-2
Charge devices and pack chargers plus any plug adapters for US 120V Type A/B outlets; download session handouts while you still have fast home internet.
T-1
Travel to Pasadena, check in, and confirm the day-one start time and badge pickup location at the Hilton Pasadena.
Day 1
Arrive early for badge pickup, attend the opening session, and walk the Expo Hall before the busiest hours.
Day 2
Attend your priority education sessions, capture CEU sign-in details, and follow up with the exhibitors you shortlisted.
Day 3
Cover remaining sessions and exhibitors, join any networking or awards functions, and record contacts while the details are fresh.
Day 4
Attend closing sessions, save your CEU records, and note action items from exhibitor conversations before you travel home.
Networking spots
2OTAC Annual Conference & Expo registration concourse
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$220.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$370.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether OTAC Annual Conference & Expo fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4–8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published — confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3–6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources — confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- OTAC
- Occupational Therapy Association of California, the professional body hosting the Annual Conference & Expo.
- OT
- Occupational therapy, the allied health profession focused on helping people participate in daily activities; the conference audience and subject focus.
- Expo Hall
- The exhibition area of the conference where suppliers show therapeutic equipment, educational materials, and rehabilitation products.
- CEU
- Continuing Education Unit, the credit OT professionals earn for attending approved conference sessions.
- Innova / Innovation Expo
- A branded expo format used by OTAC to group exhibitors by product theme such as sensory integration or aquatic therapy; some content is presented virtually.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- OTAC Annual Conference & Expo
- OTAC Annual Conference & Expo 2026
- OTAC Annual Conference & Expo Pasadena
- OTAC Expo 2026
- OTAC conference Pasadena 2026
- OTAC Annual Conference 2026
- occupational therapy conference 2026
- occupational therapy expo Pasadena
- occupational therapy conference Pasadena
- OTAC Pasadena USA
9 more alternate names hidden
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Sources
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References
1
Publishers
0
Date checked
1
Occupational Therapy Association of California
- event_website
- event_social
- event_social
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Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.