AAO is committed to making your first Annual Session experience exceptional. As a first-time attendee, you have access to resources designed to help you navigate the event with ease and make the most of every opportunity.

Whether you’re looking for guidance on session schedules, networking tips, or logistical information, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Enjoy the conference and get ready for an inspiring and productive experience.

Refine your expertise and deepen your knowledge.  Plus, take advantage of the new AAO Annual Session Worksheet to help you and your team navigate the event and track key takeaways. 

Thursday, April 24:


First-Time Attendee Welcome

Join our pre-conference introduction and tour, where volunteer doctors are on hand to offer personalized tips on crafting your Annual Session schedule experience.

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 3:00-4:30pm

Location: Convention Center | Room 204-C

Cost: Complimentary with registration.

Friday, April 25:


First-Time Attendee Early Bird Coffee

Start your day with our Early Bird coffee – grab a quick cup exclusively for first-time attendees before the lectures begin.

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 7:30-8:00am

Location: Convention Center | Room 204-C

Cost: Complimentary with registration.  Limited to the first 100 First Time Attendees.


All-Day Reserved Seating

Enjoy five dedicated tables in the Exhibit Hall reserved just for you, ensuring you always have a seat to grab a bite!

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm 

Location: Exhibit Hall Food Court

Cost: Complimentary with registration. 


Celebrity Conversation – Reserved Seating

Connect with fellow first-time attendees at the Terrace Ballroom and secure your reserved seat for the Celebrity Conversation with Simon Biles.

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 4:00-5:30pm

Location: Convention Center | Terrace Ballroom

Cost: Complimentary with registration.  Exclusively available to the first 100 First-Time Attendees.


Alumni Reception & AAO Philly Fest 

Network and connect with other first-time attendees at both Friday evening events. It’s going to be the Biggest Party Ever.

Alumni Receptions

Open to registered attendees

Time: 5:45-7:15pm

Location: Philadelphia Marriott & other nearby venues

Cost: Complimentary with registration.  Please let us know you’ll be attending by reserving a spot during the registration process.

AAO Philly Fest

Open to doctors who attended an ortho program in the US / Canada

Time: 7:00-10:00 pm

Location: Reading Terminal Market

Cost: Complimentary with registration.  Please let us know you’ll be attending by reserving a spot during the registration process.

Saturday, April 26:


First-Time Attendee Early Bird Coffee

Start your day with our Early Bird coffee – grab a quick cup exclusively for first-time attendees before the lectures begin.

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 7:30-8:00am

Location: Convention Center | Room 204-C

Cost: Complimentary with registration. Limited to the first 100 First Time Attendees.


All-Day Reserved Seating

Enjoy five dedicated tables in the Exhibit Hall reserved just for you, ensuring you always have a seat to grab a bite!

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm  

Location: Exhibit Hall Food Court

Cost: Complimentary with registration. 

Sunday, April 27:


First-Time Attendee Early Bird Coffee

Start your day with our Early Bird coffee – grab a quick cup exclusively for first-time attendees before the lectures begin.

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 7:30-8:00am

Location: Convention Center | Room 204-C

Cost: Complimentary with registration. Limited to the first 100 First Time Attendees.


All-Day Reserved Seating

Enjoy five dedicated tables in the Exhibit Hall reserved just for you, ensuring you always have a seat to grab a bite!

Open to first-time Annual Session attendees

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm 

Location: Exhibit Hall Food Court

Cost: Complimentary with registration.