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"
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.
With inspiring speakers and meaningful encounters, this conference encourages you to look ahead with purpose while staying open, light, and playful. When you allow yourself to experiment, connect, and think freely, new perspectives naturally emerge.
As you meet fellow attendees, you’ll feel limitations fade and possibilities expand. This is your moment to reignite your youthful spark and step forward with fresh confidence.
Because when you never stop playing, 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 14 May 2026
15:00 – Arrival, check-in & welcome ceremony
19:00 – Home hospitality with members & alumni
22:30 – After drinks at Avifauna
Friday 15 May 2026
07:00–09:00 – Breakfast
08:30 – Presidents meeting
10:00 – Walk to City Hall (approx. 30 min)
11:00 – Opening ceremony
12:00 – Lunch
13:00 – Walk back with group activity
14:30–18:00 – Boat trip & visit to Van der Valk farm (incl. tour)
19:00–01:00 – GAP Party including dinner
Saturday 16 May 2026
07:00–09:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Team-building walk in Avifauna
12:00 – Lunch
13:00 – Bike ride to Zegerplas
13:30 – Activities at Zegerplas (walking, relaxing, sports & games)
15:00 – Bike ride back / sunset drinks (at own expense)
18:30–01:00 – Gala dinner & party
Sunday 17 May 2026
07:00–09:00 – Breakfast
09:00 – Closing ceremony
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!
Gala ticket
Access to gala evening
€150
- Entry to the gala evening on Saturday, including a three-course dinner, unlimited drinks, and a live DJ. A night full of celebration, great music, and memories to last a lifetime.
LOCAL ALPHEN TICKET
Full fee to attend the EMT program without hotel and breakfast
€275
- Full EMT program
- Entry to gala evening on Saturday with 3 course dinner incl. drinks
- Former JCI Alphen members only
- No hotel and no breakfast