Thursday evening kicks things off at the Owensboro Convention Center with registration, a fun “Explore the City” bingo activity, and a Welcome Reception featuring cocktails, light fare, and our opening keynote from Nicci and Tanner Smith (Love on the Spectrum). We’ll wrap the night with a lighthearted connection activity (Singo) to help you settle in and meet others.

Friday is our full day of programming, beginning with breakfast, registration, and vendor shopping. You’ll experience a powerful lineup of keynote speakers, multiple breakout sessions, and a lunch-and-learn—all designed to meet you wherever you are in your journey.

After a dinner break on your own, the evening continues with optional connection opportunities like our Caregiver Coffee Hour, followed by our legendary dance party (and a separate optional Dad’s Night Out experience).

Saturday morning, you’ll have the option to join a casual coffee chat before we gather at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame for brunch and our closing keynote—a meaningful and encouraging way to wrap up the weekend together.

For those who want a little more fun before heading home, we’ll end with an optional “Talk Derby to Me” watch party, complete with games, prizes, and celebration.

Throughout the weekend, you can expect thoughtful details, meaningful connection, vendor experiences, and a few special surprises designed to make this retreat truly unforgettable.

Thursday appetizers are included, along with Friday breakfast and lunch, and Saturday brunch. For other meals, we encourage you to explore all the wonderful local spots Owensboro has to offer. Visit Owensboro is providing a curated list of local restaurants.

Please plan to arrive no earlier than 4:00 PM. Registration will run until 6:00 PM, so be sure to allow time to grab dinner before returning for the Welcome Reception and evening programming.

No, lodging and travel are not included.

Owensboro has a small regional airport, with Evansville Regional Airport about 45 minutes away and Nashville International Airport about a two-hour drive.

We’ve secured hotel block rates at three nearby hotels. You can find those details by scrolling to the hotel section here:
https://morethanproject.org/care-for-the-caregiver-retreat/

Once you arrive at the retreat, a rental car is not necessary if you prefer not to have one. The Convention Center and Bluegrass Hall of Fame are within walking distance of all our hotel options.

For anything a bit further out, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Please note there may be some delays due to Derby weekend, but both remain convenient options.

Yes! Visit Owensboro is providing a curated list of local restaurants and spots, which you’ll find in your event program.

Yes! A local casino (just a short Uber ride away) will be showing the race.

Many caregivers come on their own—and leave with meaningful friendships and connections. We gently encourage everyone to put themselves out there in whatever way feels comfortable. This is a space where you will be understood.

We encourage you to treat this as a weekend for you. Wear whatever makes you feel your best. Maybe that’s a dress you’ve been saving, something sparkly for the dance party, a fun hat for brunch or the Derby-themed event, or just your favorite t-shirt and jeans. Come as you are.

Our Friday night dance party is a women-focused event, while dads will have their own optional experience (Dad’s Night Out / casino outing). There will also be additional opportunities for connection throughout the weekend for everyone.

If you’d like to stick around for extra connection after the conference wraps up for the day, join us for a one hour table topics coffee chat

If you’d like to come early for extra connection, join us for a one hour table topics coffee chat before brunch

Our “Talk Derby to Me” watch party will take place at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. This fun, themed event includes games, prizes, and a chance to dress up—think Kentucky Derby style! Wear a hat if you’d like and join in the celebration as we watch and enjoy classic races together.

Yes. We’ll have a variety of vendors offering apparel, accessories, books, treats, and more. You’ll also want to leave room in your suitcase for retreat swag!