EMT 2026 in Alphen
From May 14th to May 17th, 2026, JCI Alphen will host the annual highlight of the world’s largest JCI twinning agreement. Be sure to purchase your ticket early to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing you in Alphen aan den Rijn.
THEME "NEVER STOP PLAYING- BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND"
This event invites you to rediscover the playful energy that keeps you young. Inspired by the Benjamin Button idea of growing younger, Never Stop Playing reminds us that curiosity and imagination have no age limit. You’re never too old to explore, create, or surprise yourself.
In line with Stephen Covey’s Begin with the End in Mind, this conference encourages you to look ahead with purpose while staying open, light, and playful. A clear vision becomes more powerful when you enjoy the journey.
As you meet inspiring speakers and fellow attendees, you’ll feel limitations fade and new possibilities open. This is your moment to reignite your youthful spark and step forward with fresh confidence.
Because when you never stop playing — and begin with the end in mind — you never stop growing.
HOST CITY
Alphen aan den Rijn, a vibrant city in the heart of the Netherlands, charms visitors with its unique mix of history, nature, and modern living. Situated along the Oude Rijn River, the city is known for its scenic waterfront, green surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the historic city center, enjoy the lively shopping streets, and discover landmarks such as Archeon, where Dutch history comes to life. Stroll through the picturesque parks, visit the beautiful lakes in the region, or take a relaxing boat trip through the waterways that connect the city to the Dutch lake district.
As a gateway to the Groene Hart, Alphen aan den Rijn offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, cycling routes, and cultural experiences. With its friendly community, diverse attractions, and charming natural scenery, Alphen aan den Rijn invites visitors to experience the best of Dutch everyday life in a warm and welcoming setting.
CONFERENCE ACCOMMODATION
The conference hotel, Hotel Avifauna, is ideally located in the heart of Alphen aan den Rijn, right next to the beautiful Avifauna Bird Park and along the Oude Rijn River. The hotel offers a unique combination of nature, comfort, and convenience, with easy access to the city center, local attractions, and scenic walking and cycling routes.
Within the hotel grounds, guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, dine in the restaurant with river views, and explore the adjacent bird park, which is one of the highlights of the region. Hotel Avifauna will serve as the central meeting point for all our activities during the event, offering a welcoming and inspiring environment for every participant.
PROGRAM - SCHEDULE OVERVIEW
Thursday
- Arrival at hotel at your own time
- Home Hospitality (start: 6pm from hotel)
Friday
- Official reception by the city of Alphen aan den Rijn (in the morning)
- Never Stop Playing — Alphen Edition – official program (in the afternoon)
- Get-Acquainted-Party (the legendary ‘GAP’)
Saturday
- Never Stop Playing — Alphen Edition
- Gala Event
Sunday
- Farewell Breakfast/Brunch
Order your EMT 2026 TICKET
The terms of registration and cancellation can be found here.
*offer is only available until the 30th of April 2026. After this ticket option without hotel is still available, if we have capacity. Please note that this price includes a shared room, not a single room.
Registration ends on the 30th of April!
VIP TICKET
Full fee to attend the EMT
€500
- Up till 4 guests
- Conference Hotel for 3 nights, incl. breakfast
- Home hospitality invitation on Thursday evening
- Day programme on Friday and Saturday
- GAP party with free food & drinks on Friday
- Entry to gala evening on Saturday with 3 course dinner incl. drinks
- Farewel breakfast/brunch on Sunday
VIP SINGLE ROOM
Full fee to attend the EMT
€680
- 1 guest
- Conference Hotel for 3 nights, incl. breakfast
- Home hospitality invitation on Thursday evening
- Day programme on Friday and Saturday
- GAP party with free food & drinks on Friday
- Entry to gala evening on Saturday with 3 course dinner incl. drinks
- Farewel breakfast/brunch on Sunday
Gala ticket
Access to gala evening
€150
- Entry to gala evening on Saturday with 3 course dinner incl.
