Home / Events / RCon® 2026 / Agenda / Networking Events

 

Your RCon® Networking Guide

 

Reconnect, Recharge & Reinvigorate

RCon® is more than a conference. It's a chance to reconnect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and return home re-energized.

 

RCon Opening Reception

Tuesday, September 29, 5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. CDT | Exhibit Hall

Kick off RCon by joining colleagues, industry leaders, exhibitors, and sponsors at the Exhibit Hall Opening Reception. Reconnect with peers, build new relationships, and explore a sold-out Exhibit Hall with the latest products, technologies, and services shaping the waste and resource management industry. Enjoy refreshments while networking in a relaxed setting and discovering innovative solutions from companies across North America. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to launch your RCon experience and make valuable connections from day one.

Drink Tickets Sponsored by
 

SWANA Volunteer Appreciation Bash

Tuesday, September 29, 8:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M. CDT | Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery

Join us for the Volunteer Bash at the iconic Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery with a buffet, drinks, brewery tours, and a special photo op with the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales. Open to all SWANA volunteers and those interested in volunteering with SWANA.

Sponsored by

Yoga

Wednesday, September 30, 6:45 A.M. - 7:30 P.M. CDT | America’s Center, Room 200
Thursday, October 1, 6:45 A.M. - 7:30 P.M. CDT | America’s Center, Room 200

Before the day's sessions begin, recharge with a morning yoga session on Wednesday and Thursday, whether you're a seasoned yogi or looking for a relaxing start to your day.

 

Young Professionals Event at Puttshack

Wednesday, September 30, 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. CDT | Puttshack St. Louis

SWANA Young Professionals are invited to connect and compete for an evening at Puttshack with drinks and light appetizers served in a relaxed atmosphere with interactive minigolf.

Sponsored by
 

SWANA Awards Celebration at 18Rails

Wednesday, September 30, 7:00 P.M. - 9:30 P.M. CDT | 18Rails

Celebrate with us as we roll out the red carpet for the 2026 SWANA award recipients at 18Rails, located in a renovated industrial building in Midtown. We encourage you to dress however makes you feel your best – maybe with your favorite thrifted outfit to show your commitment to reuse!

Awards Celebration
Sponsored by

 
VIP Awards Reception
Sponsored by

Safety Awards
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Talkin' Trash Trivia

Thursday, October 1, 5:30 P.M. - 6:30 P.M. CDT | America’s Center, Room 230 Prefunction

Put your industry knowledge to the test and enjoy a little friendly competition. This attendee-favorite is a fun way to connect with colleagues while learning a thing or two about St. Louis, pop-culture, and more.

 

Reclaimed & Reimagined: A Night at the City Museum

Thursday, October 1, 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. CDT | City Museum

Round out your RCon experience with one of the most unique all-conference networking events you'll find anywhere – A Night at the City Museum as you explore multiple floors of adventure in a venue where everything is made of reclaimed materials.

Sponsored by
RHI Magnesita
 Watershed Geo
 

RCon Fun Run

Friday, October 2, 7:00 A.M. to 7:30 A.M. CDT | America's Center, Washington Lobby

Keep your fitness going with a social fun run. Join your colleagues and SWANA’s Kristyn Oldendorf to see the sites of St. Louis. All levels are welcome, and walking is an option. Stretch your legs before morning sessions begin!

 

Pickleball Tournament

All levels of players are welcome to sign up for the RCon Pickleball Tournament held on the Exhibit Hall floor! Sign up with a team of two or put your name down for us to pair you with a team member. The tournament schedule will be coordinated to accommodate player schedules and pickleball skill level. Sign up for the RCon Pickleball Tournament!

Sponsored by
 

Community Giveback Project

Wednesday, september 30, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. CDT | America's Center, Exhibit Hall
Let’s work together to support a local organization in the region by assembling Smile Kits for United Way of St. Louis. Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease among children in the US, despite being largely preventable, and can cause them to miss school.

Join us on the Exhibit Hall floor on September 30th for this community give back project. In just 5 minutes, you can assemble a Smile Kit to help children lacking oral health resources. Stay for one kit or assemble a bunch! Either way, we can make an impact.
 
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