About Conventions

IMPORTANT NOTICE
During the pandemic, dependent upon the latest public health order, some conventions may have moved online or could be offered with limited in-person attendance, or as a hybrid event. Please be sure to visit specific OA convention websites for the most up-to-date details.

What is an OA Convention?

Conventions are special OA events, typically held annually. The purpose of an OA convention is to encourage unity within a region (if it is a regional convention), or to encourage unity throughout OA. Conventions are also held to raise funds for carrying the message of recovery to those who suffer with our common disease of compulsive eating.

The World Service Convention is a very special recovery event open to all OA members worldwide, as well as being open to anyone with a desire to stop eating compulsively. This particular OA convention is held every five years to promote recovery, fun, and fellowship in Overeaters Anonymous. You can attend workshops, marathons, and enjoy other OA-related events, and hear speakers from other countries. Join us at one of our OA conventions and share your experience, strength, and hope with hundreds of OA members from around the globe.

Most conventions are weekend events that are hosted by an Overeaters Anonymous service body rather than any one group. They are held in hotels or conference centers that can accommodate the event’s space requirements, but may also be offered as an online experience. The activities at conventions are focused on OA recovery and fellowship, meetings, workshops, speaker sessions, and entertainment, such as dances or breaks for relaxation and fun.