Networking Events

Saturday, October 31
Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C.
5:00-6:30 pm

Celebrate a festive Halloween evening with colleagues from around the world. Connect over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while engaging with leaders in neurological surgery and honoring distinguished award recipients. In the spirit of Evolution, this reception highlights the global perspectives and relationships shaping the future of the field. This complimentary event welcomes CNS Foundation donors, awardees, residents, international attendees, advanced practice providers, and their registered guests.

Sunday, November 1
Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C.
6:30-8:00 pm

Kick off the Annual Meeting at the Marriott Marquis with an evening of connection and community. Reflecting this year’s theme, Evolution, join leaders and innovators in neurological surgery as ideas, partnerships, and possibilities come together. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and meaningful conversation. All attendees and their registered guests are welcome.

Monday, November 2
Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C.
6:30 am

Grab your sneakers and start stretching—the CNS 5K is back at the 2026 CNS Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.! Take in the energy and iconic surroundings of the nation’s capital as you run alongside colleagues and friends. Join the organized group run on Monday morning, departing from the lobby of the Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C. Prefer to go at your own pace? Run solo and track your time using the Strava app. Advance registration is required—register alongside your meeting registration to participate in this energizing Annual Meeting tradition.

Already registered for the meeting? Follow these instructions to add the 5K and additional sessions to your existing registration!

Monday, November 2, and Tuesday, November 3
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
4:30-6:00 pm

The Interactive Poster Sessions with Wine and Cheese aim to invigorate scientific presentation and discussion, complemented by wine and cheese. Selected abstract authors will present mini-oral presentations in the poster hall, highlighting key advances in each field.

Monday, November 2
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
6:00-7:00 pm

The CNS is a home for neurosurgeons from all areas of practice. Connect with peers from your section for an evening of focused, subspecialty-based networking complemented by light refreshments. All attendees and their registered guests are welcome.

Monday, November 2
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
6:00-7:30 pm

We invite all medical students to attend the Medical Student Town Hall!  You will have the opportunity to interact with leadership from residency programs and network with other medical students and residents.

New this year, the CNS Steps Challenge invites attendees to stay active throughout the meeting. Each day, participants will upload their step count and compete with colleagues to see who can go the distance. Whether you’re exploring the city or logging steps between sessions, every step counts. Winners will be announced during the General Scientific Session on Wednesday—so keep moving and see how far you can go!

The CNS Exhibit Hall is where the future of neurosurgery takes shape. Explore breakthrough technologies and next-generation techniques redefining patient care. Engage directly with industry innovators, experience cutting-edge devices in immersive demonstrations, and discover solutions that will shape the evolution of neurosurgical practice.

Exhibit Hall Hours:*

Monday, November 2: 8:15 am-4:00 pm
Tuesday, November 3: 8:15 am-3:00 pm
Wednesday, November 4: 8:15 am-1:30 pm

Highlights:

• CNS Experience Lounge
• Live Surgery Presentations
• In-booth demonstrations

*Exhibit Hall hours subject to change