You may want to bookmark this blog as you pack for Accelerate, powered by NetVU. And if you’re still deciding whether to join us in Austin, I hope this this list will give you the inspiration you need. We’ve got lots of valuable learning sessions and fun planned for May 7–10 at the Austin Convention Center!
Here are some important things to consider bringing along:
Sunglasses
Mild temperatures and plenty of sun are in the forecast for Austin in May. A good pair of shades will help as you stroll about town.
Cowboy boots
Of course, you don’t need cowboy boots, but they could come in handy for a little toe-tapping in the live music capital of the world. You can even enjoy live music while dining at some of Austin’s best outdoor patios near the riverfront.
Loose fitting pants
Stay comfy as you sample the city’s incredible barbeque and Tex-Mex cuisine. Whether you prefer dine-in, take-out, or food trucks, there are hundreds of options, starting with breakfast.
Binoculars
Each night the Congress Avenue Bridge along the riverfront features the awe-inspiring flight of Mexican free-tailed bats across the Texas sky. Binoculars will let you view the millions of swooping and swirling bats from a comfortable distance.
An extra carry-on bag
Make sure you have room to take home your extra haul. Everyone from luxury label shoppers to vintage treasure hunters will enjoy Austin’s shopping opportunities.
Postcard stamps
Send a note about your adventures to family and friends. There’s lots to see in Austin, including the country’s largest state capitol. Or you may want to arrive early for the Pecan Street Festival May 6–7. It’s one of the longest running music and craft festivals in the country. You may even want to come early or stay late to enjoy a quick side trip to San Antonio, Waco or the 10 state parks in the spectacular Texas Hill Country. Any of these side trips are easy drives.
A firm handshake
Get ready to meet some great collaborators and have fun with friends old and new.
- We’ll kick off Accelerate on Sunday with workshops, our Day of Caring activities, and community sessions — like the Sagitta All-Users Chapter Inc. (SAUCI). We’ll end the day with a kickoff party, Austin-style. Expect food trucks, maybe a Willie sighting, and plenty of food and fun.
- Monday will feature a full day of learning, with keynote speakers and overviews of what’s new with Vertafore products.
- Tuesday offers another full day of learning, including insights from our featured presenter, Blake Morgan, and the always exciting Vertafore Customer Appreciation Celebration, which will be held this year at the world-renowned Stubb’s Bar-B-Q.
- Accelerate will wind down on Wednesday, but not before some more workshops that will help NetVU members learn better ways to run their organizations.
Join us May 7–10
Ever wonder why an average of 30 million people visit Austin every year — more than the annual visits to Rome, Hawaii, or even London? Come to Accelerate and find out firsthand. I suspect a lot of it has to do with the unique charm and hospitality of this Texas capitol city.
If you’ve yet to register, it’s quick and easy. We look forward to seeing you in May — Austin and NetVU are ready to impress you!