Wild Things annual conference comes to O’Fallon in 2026 on Jan. 31

One of the Midwest’s largest nature conferences expands to southern Illinois

After being held in northern Illinois for decades, and growing into one of the largest conservation gatherings in the Midwest, the Wild Things Conference is taking root in southern Illinois later this month.

The Wild Things 2026 Conference will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at The Regency in O’Fallon, Ill.

With a focus on connecting people and nature across Illinois, the conference brings together conservation professionals, volunteers, educators, and advocates for a full day of learning about and celebrating the ecosystems and wild places of the Midwest. The event features over 50 presentations and panel discussions exploring topics in wildlife conservation, ecology, native habitats, environmental education, community-based stewardship, traditional ecological knowledge, and arts and culture.

The Riverbend region will be well represented through speakers and panelists during the different sessions. The Nature Institute; Three Rivers Project of the Sierra Club; Southwest Illinois Wild Ones; Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Grow Native! Program; Flourish Farm and Folk School; and National Great Rivers Research and Education Center all have pivotal roles as this conference makes its debut in Southern Illinois.

Potawatomi Nation enrolled citizen Jay Young will open the day with a keynote address, inspiring attendees to see the land as a living memory-keeper and teacher. The 2026 program also includes presentations by scientists, volunteers, and land stewards from across the state, with special attention to southern Illinois restoration and ecology projects. This year also introduces a new session track, the Traditional Ecological Knowledge, offering a space to learn from Indigenous practitioners and community leaders who connect cultural heritage with land stewardship.

“There is nothing like the energy at the Wild Things conference as nature stewards, advocates, and educators, both volunteer and professional, gather together for a day to celebrate and  learn about nature,” says previous Wild Things attendee and current planning committee member Deanna Deterding-Douglas.

In addition to presentations, attendees will enjoy an exhibit hall featuring nonprofit organizations, nature-inspired artists, educational displays, and sustainability-focused businesses.

More information and tickets are available at www.wildthingscommunity.org.