2026 ANNUAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
We are looking forward to seeing everyone for the Annual Meeting in November! For those coming to Chicago there are many reasons to come early and stay late. In addition to the academic program of more than 100 sessions and workshops, posters, and the Plenary Address by Kim Benzel, there are many receptions, special events, and local attractions to enjoy.
Chicago Highlights
November 17–24, 2026
Free admission to the Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum of Natural History is offering free general admission to ASOR Annual Meeting attendees. Show your ASOR name badge at the admissions desk for free entrance. For information on opening hours, planning your trip, and special exhibits (additional fee may apply), please visit their website.
November 17–24, 2026
Free admission to the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum
The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum is offering free general admission to ASOR Annual Meeting attendees. Show your ASOR name badge at the admissions desk for free entrance. For information on opening hours, planning your trip, and special exhibits (additional fee may apply), please visit their website.
Dates to be announced soon
Free admission to The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is offering free general admission to ASOR Annual Meeting attendees. Show your ASOR name badge at the admissions desk for free entrance. For information on opening hours, planning your trip, and special exhibits (additional fee may apply), please visit their website.
November 17–24, 2026
Free admission to the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is offering free general admission to ASOR Annual Meeting attendees. Show your ASOR name badge at the admissions desk for free entrance. For information on opening hours, planning your trip, and special exhibits (additional fee may apply), please visit their website.
There are a number of special events taking place during the Annual Meeting. Some of these events require registered attendees to sign-up in advance.
Wednesday, November 18
7:00-8:30pm CST
ASOR Annual Meeting Plenary Address (Grand Ballroom, Hilton Chicago)
Dr. Kim Benzel, Curator in Charge of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, will present, “Lapis, Clay, Copper, Water: Presenting Ancient West Asian Art at The Met.” Also available online for virtual attendees. Learn more here.
Thursday, November 19
12:55-1:55pm CST
Seal Carving Workshop (Room 4A, Hilton Chicago)
Led by Dr. Pinar Durgun (The Morgan Museum & Library), this workshop is free for ASOR attendees. Space is limited and advance sign-up is required. Registration is full, but please email programs@asor.org to be added to the waitlist.
12:55-1:55pm CST
Early Career Scholars’ Panel (Boulevard C)
Stay tuned for more info on this event.
12:55-1:55pm CST
ASOR Roundtable Discussions (Grand Ballroom)
There will be a number of discussion topics offered during this lunchtime event. Advance sign-up will be required.
Friday, November 20
12:45-2:00pm CST
ASOR Members’ Meeting, Jane DeRose Evans, Presiding (Waldorf)
Bring your lunch and come for an update on the business of ASOR and the 2026 Honors & Awards.
8:00-10:00pm CST
Early Career Scholars’ Reception (720 South Bar, Lobby Level)
This event is for registered ASOR attendees who are Early Career Scholars. More information and sign-up coming soon.
Saturday, November 21
10:20-10:40am CST
ASOR Raffle Drawing (Normandie Lounge, 2nd Floor)
A fun event to highlight ASOR Exhibitors during the morning coffee break on the last day of the meeting. Join us in the Exhibit Hall (Normandie Lounge) near the registration tables to see if your raffle ticket is a winner.
12:45-2:00pm CST
ASOR Poster Session (Grand Ballroom Foyer)
Visit the ASOR Poster Hall throughout the Annual Meeting to see all of the research projects being presented, and come to the Poster Session on Saturday to talk with the presenters and ask questions.
Times will be announced soon
Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum Reception
After the sessions end on Saturday night, the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum will host a reception for ASOR attendees. In addition to the permanent galleries, attendees will have the opportunity to view the new exhibition, Hartapu: The Forgotten King of Anatolia. Two time options are being offered to accommodate as many people as possible. Tickets are complimentary for ASOR attendees, however, space is limited and advanced registration is required. More information and sign-up coming soon.