This autumn, the global funeral profession will turn its attention to Charlotte, where the 18th Global Convention of FIAT-IFTA and the 55th I.C.D. Annual Meeting will be proudly hosted by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), in the vibrant city of Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, from October 25–28, 2026 in conjunction with the NFDA International Convention & Expo! More than a gathering, this year’s event is set to become a defining moment for the federation’s future direction.

We warmly invite you to attend this gathering, which transcends borders and unites us in a shared global commitment to excellence in funeral services. Together, we will explore new horizons, strengthen our professional bonds, and shape the future of our federation.

Charlotte, known as the Queen City, offers a vibrant arts scene, rich history, and a thriving business environment, complemented by its natural beauty. It is a perfect blend of culture, innovation, and Southern charm - an ideal place to visit and connect.

A special thank you to the NFDA for organizing the Convention and to our sponsors 
for their generous support of the 2026 FIAT-IFTA Global Convention in Charlotte.

What’s on the agenda?

The 2026 agenda clearly shifts the focus from inspiration to decision-making and strategic action. At its core, the FIAT-IFTA I.C.D. Meeting and General Assembly will bring members together to debate and vote on key issues shaping the organization, including important structural and constitutional matters approved at the last I.C.D. Meeting in Yokohama, Japan.

Alongside this, five FIAT-IFTA committee meetings - Heritage, Global Education, Embalming, Coffin Standards, and Sustainability - will serve as working platforms to advance new projects and address the most pressing challenges across the funeral sector. Committees will present updates and offer engaging and informative sessions. Their sessions are expected to drive practical outcomes and strengthen collaboration within specialized fields.

A highlight of the programme will be the FIAT-IFTA Gala, featuring the transfer of presidential insignia to Johan Dexters from Belgium, marking a significant leadership transition within the federation.

The event is hosted by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and will run in parallel with the NFDA International Convention & Expo - the world’s largest funeral industry exhibition, featuring 330 exhibitors, offering unparalleled access to global trends, innovations, and professional exchange.

For four days, Charlotte will become a hub where decisions are made, initiatives take shape, and the future of the profession is actively defined.

As always, optional technical visits to local funeral operations will be available.

>> Check out the 2026 FIAT-IFTA Global Convention agenda

Register and Book Your Stay

Registration for the event, as well as hotel reservations, can be made via the official event website: https://nfda.ac-page.com/fiat-ifta-registration-page 

When registering for the event, first-time users should create an NFDA account. 
NFDA members should log in using their current account credentials.

Reserve your room early — the NFDA room block will sell out! 
When booking, you will need to enter the access code: FIAT-IFTA

>> Please remember that the final registration deadline is August 24, 2026.  

If you need a Visa letter, please email nfda@nfda.org 

The registration fee includes full access to the NFDA International Convention and Expo, covering the welcome reception, workshops from Sunday afternoon through Wednesday, entry to the world’s largest expo hall, keynote sessions, and one ticket to the FIAT-IFTA Gala. Additional gala tickets and participation in the technical tour can be purchased for an extra fee. Payments can be made by credit card (preferred) or via wire transfer.
 

About Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina is a vibrant, welcoming city that blends Southern charm with modern energy, making it an appealing destination for travellers of all ages and interests. Known as the Queen City, Charlotte offers a mix of culture, adventure, culinary experiences, and family-friendly attractions that give visitors plenty to explore.

Uptown - Charlotte’s walkable city centre - is home to impressive museums like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Levine Museum of the New South, and the Mint Museum Uptown. Visitors can stroll through lively public spaces, admire striking architecture, and enjoy the city’s growing arts scene, from murals and galleries to theatres and live music venues.

For those seeking outdoor activities, Charlotte’s greenways, urban parks, and nearby lakes offer abundant opportunities for biking, kayaking, and relaxing in nature. Thrill-seekers can head to Carowinds, one of the Southeast’s top amusement parks, or U.S. National Whitewater Centre, an outdoor adventure playground with rafting, ziplining, climbing, and miles of scenic trails.

Charlotte’s food scene continues to shine, offering everything from traditional Carolina barbecue to elevated farm-to-table dining and a wide range of global cuisine. Breweries and craft cocktail bars dot the city’s neighbourhoods, providing great spots to unwind after a day of exploring.

Across its diverse districts - such as historic South End, artsy NoDa, and charming Plaza Midwood - visitors will find unique shops, local cafes, and lively street scenes that show off Charlotte’s personality. Whether traveling for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a longer escape, Charlotte welcomes tourists with warmth, creativity, and a dynamic spirit that makes the city feel both exciting and easy to enjoy.

We look forward to meeting you in Charlotte, USA!