General Questions

What is the ACF Annual Event Series?

Every year the American Culinary Federation hosts four regional conferences and one national convention. The events provide numerous education opportunities, networking, a trade show and more.

What is the ACF National Convention?

The ACF National Convention provides professional development opportunities through informative business seminars, forums, clinics, cutting-edge demonstrations and hands-on workshops. The conference also features a trade show where foodservice exhibitors showcase their latest culinary products.

ACF's National Convention is attended by more than 2,100 culinary professionals and offers culinarians the opportunity to learn about the latest cooking trends and techniques from around the country.

What are the ACF Regional Conferences?

There are four regional conferences held annually in each of the four ACF regions--Central, Southeast, Northeast and Western. The regional conferences offer numerous educational opportunities and also a trade show. The regional conference is great for networking and making contacts with professionals in your area.

Who attends ACF events?

Chefs from all fields including pastry, restaurants, research, corporate, education and more gather with their peers and suppliers at our regional conference and national convention. ACF events are open to ACF members at a discounted rate. Non-members are invited to attend as well.

When and where are the ACF events?

• Northeast - Feb. 7-9, 2009, Boston
• Central - Feb. 21-23, 2009, Schaumburg, Ill.
• Western - April 4-6, 2009, Seattle
• Southeast - April 18-20, 2009, Charlotte, N.C.
• 2009 ACF National Convention - July 11-14, 2009, Orlando, Fla.

Why should I attend?

As an attendee of an ACF event you are provided with the latest information on culinary innovations, networking opportunities for building strategic businesses partnerships, educational seminars and demos, trade shows and social functions. All regional conference and national convention functions are applicable towards Continuing Education Hours.

The regional conferences allow you to build relationships with other professionals in your area while engaging in educational functions. The National Convention draws professionals from around the U.S. for a true look at the trends from around the country and includes numerous professional development opportunities.

What is the attire at the events?

During the day, please dress in business attire or professional chef attire (i.e. chef coat, kerchief, black or herringbone pants and black shoes or clogs). Formal attire is required for the American Academy of Chefs Dinner and preferred at the regional Vice President's Gala and the President's Grand Ball at convention.

Are there any AAC functions during the events?

Each regional conference and the national convention hold an American Academy of Chefs (AAC) dinner as well as members meetings. Please visit the AAC page for details.

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