CitiesAlive 2026 returns to New York City

CitiesAlive 2026 returns to New York City from September 30 to October 3 for its 20th annual conference, bringing together experts in landscape architecture, planning, research, policy, and industry. Hosted at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge, the conference will explore how to future-proof cities using nature-based solutions that address stormwater, extreme heat, biodiversity loss, public health, and climate resilience.

For landscape architects, CitiesAlive offers excellent learning opportunities. Sessions highlight how living systems are integrated into real-world projects, from coastal resilience corridors and rooftop ecosystems to hybrid blue-green infrastructure and multifunctional public realm strategies. Attendees will gain access to case studies, research findings, and applied tools that address the constraints of building in dense cities and offer solutions.

The 2026 program features keynote presentations from experts working across design, ecology, and policy. Speakers include Jennifer Bousselot of Colorado State University, focusing on multifunctional rooftop systems for food, biodiversity, and energy; Anthony Fieldman of DIALOG, examining systemic change and resilience; Rachel Wilkins of Bjarke Ingels Group, presenting coastal adaptation strategies for lower Manhattan; and Bill Browning of Terrapin Bright Green, exploring biophilic design and human-nature connection.

Alongside keynote sessions, attendees can participate in master classes, technical trainings, tours, networking, and concurrent sessions covering design, policy, research, best practices, and more. The program is designed to support both practical application and knowledge sharing.

CitiesAlive is also offering student scholarships so young people can access the conference for free. If you know a student who may be interested, please ask them to email [email protected] 

Register before July 17th, 2026, to save $100 USD and get the early bird rate!