General questions
Q1: When is the conference taking place?
The conference will be held from June 2–4, 2026 at the Library and Archives Canada in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The venue is centrally located and accessible via public transit and major roadways.
Q2: Do I need to register in advance?
Yes, all participants must register online prior to the event. There will be no on-site registration during the event.
Q3: Will I receive a confirmation after registration?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation by email.
Q4: Is there a cost to attend?
There is no fee to attend this conference.
Q5: What time should I arrive if I am joining in-person for this symposium?
Registration begins at 7:45 am, and the opening remarks will start at 8:30 am. We recommend arriving at least 30-45 minutes early. Please refer to the official agenda for specific session times.
Q6: Do I need a visa to enter Canada to attend the conference?
You can check requirements based on your nationality at this official
Government of Canada site:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/entry-requirements-country.html
Q7: Will there be signage to guide me?
Yes, event signage and volunteers will be available throughout the venue to direct you to the registration, auditorium, and amenities.
Q8: Can I charge my devices on-site?
Charging stations will be available in designated areas.
Q9: Will Wi-Fi be available?
Yes, free guest Wi-Fi will be available throughout the venue. Login information will be provided at registration.
Q10: Who can I contact for more information?
Please contact our generic email at 2026Symposium@hc-sc.gc.ca
Food & Amenities
Q11: Will meals or refreshments be provided?
Lunch will not be provided. Light refreshments (coffee, tea, water and snacks) will be offered during breaks.
Q12: Are there places nearby for lunch?
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within walking distance of
the venue, especially along Sparks Street.
Note: This restaurant list is informational and based on proximity to
the venue. We have no affiliation with any of these restaurants.
Sparks Street Restaurants
| Name | Address | Approx. distance |
|---|---|---|
| Food Court - 240 Sparks | 240 Sparks St | ~ 0.5 km |
| Bier Markt | 156 Sparks St | ~ 0.7 km |
| Creperie Rim | 89 Sparks St | ~ 1 km |
Other Restaurants Nearby
| Name | Address | Approx. distance |
|---|---|---|
| Gooney’s Sandwich Works | 249 Albert St, Suite 102 | ~ 0.6 km |
| Green Rebel | 340 Albert St, Suite 140 | ~ 0.5 km |
| Sansotei Ramen | 153 Bank St | ~ 0.9 km |
| Occo Kitchen | 160 Bay St. at Albert | ~ 0.3 km |
| Tulip | 361 Queen St | ~ 0.1 km |
| Mill St. Brew Pub | 555 Wellington St | ~ 0.6 km |
Certificate of Attendance & Recordings
Q13: Will the sessions be recorded?
Yes, the sessions will be recorded and made available after the symposium.
Q13.1 Where can I find the recordings of the sessions?
The recordings will be available on the virtual portal and accessible in viewing mode only. They will be accessible to individuals who registered for either in-person or virtual attendance.
Q13.2 How long will the recordings be available?
The recordings will remain available on the virtual portal to all in-person and virtual registrants for one year following the Symposium.
Q13.3 Will the PowerPoint presentations also be available to participants?
Yes, the presentations will be made available on the virtual portal to all in-person and virtual registrants following the Symposium.
Q13.4 I cannot attend the conference; will I still have access to the recordings?
Yes, you will access, but you must be registered as a virtual participant in order to have access to the recordings afterwards.
Q14: Will there be a certificate of attendance issued to participants?
Yes, a certificate of attendance will be available to in-person and virtual participants after the Symposium.
Q14.1 How can I obtain the certificate of attendance?
Participants will be required to complete a short evaluation after the Symposium in order to obtain their certificate.
Q14.2 How long will the evaluation be available after the Symposium?
The evaluation survey will remain available for three weeks following the Symposium.
Q14.3 Will the certificate includes the number of days, sessions or hours attended?
No. The certificate will include the participant’s name, the dates of the Symposium, and a general statement of attendance.
Local Ottawa attractions
Q16: Are there places to visit nearby?
Here is a list of interesting places to visit near the Library and Archives Canada. You can also consult the National Capital Commission website.
Cultural & Historical Attractions
- Parliament Hill & Buildings – Canada's political heart, offering free guided tours, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and the Peace Tower with panoramic views.
- National Gallery of Canada – Home to nearly 40,000 works of art, including Indigenous, Canadian, and international pieces.
- Royal Canadian Mint – Learn how Canadian coins are made and see rare collectibles.
- Canadian Museum of Nature – Explore fossils, geology, and natural history in a stunning historic building.
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
- Garden of the Provinces & Territories – Peaceful green space next to the Library and Archives building.
- Major’s Hill Park – Scenic views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
- Rideau Canal – UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for walking, cycling, or boat tours.
Markets & Neighborhoods
- ByWard Market – A lively area filled with shops, restaurants, and local vendors.
- Sparks Street – Pedestrian shopping street with boutiques, eateries, and seasonal events.
