Social Events
The Young Minds Global Forum: An Interactive Exchange
Friday, May 1 | 3 – 4:15 pm
Henry B. González Convention Center
Join the next generation of neurosurgical leaders from around the world for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration. This dynamic reception fosters cross-cultural exchange, mentorship and idea-sharing among early-career neurosurgeons, trainees and seasoned faculty, featuring selected global abstracts and paper poster presentations that highlight emerging research and innovation. Come ready to engage, inspire and be inspired.
Hosted by the AANS Early to Mid-Career Neurosurgeons Committee (E2M), the Council of State Neurosurgical Societies (CSNS) and the AANS Global Committee.
Tickets: $25 Physicians, Non-Physician and Neurosurgical Team | Complimentary, Residents/Fellows and Medical Students
Sponsored by: Medtronic
Sip, Savor & Showcase, Formerly the Opening Reception
Friday, May 1 | 6 – 7 pm
Henry B. González Convention Center
Attending the Sip, Savor and Showcase at the 2026 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting offers a dynamic start to the conference. Attendees can expect a lively environment for networking with peers, industry leaders and innovators. While enjoying the refreshments, you’ll be at the forefront of the new technology showcase, getting an up-close look at cutting-edge solutions from exhibitors, which immediately sets a collaborative and engaging tone for the meeting. Make plans to be there!
AANS/CNS Section on Women in Neurosurgery (WINS) Breakfast
Saturday, May 2 | 7 – 8:15 am
San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk
Join your fellow colleagues for the Women in Neurosurgery (WINS) Breakfast in San Antonio, TX and embark on an unforgettable morning. This is a must-attend event at the 2026 Annual Meeting.
This year, WINS welcome the 2026 Louis Eisenhardt Lecturer, Hailey Mullican, JD, Vice President, Legal Affairs and Chief Legal Officer at The University of Texas, San Antonio. As general counsel, she leads a team providing full-scope legal and strategic counsel across the institution’s education, patient care and research missions. Ms. Mullican holds a JD from St. Mary’s University School of Law and a BA in Political Science, summa cum laude, from Abilene Christian University and is admitted to practice in Texas and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas.
Tickets: $125 Physicians | $65 Residents, Fellows, Neurosurgical Team Members, Medical Students
Sponsored by: DePuy Synthes, HighRidge Medical, Medtronic, VB Spine, Stryker
Advanced Practice Providers Reception: Connect and Collaborate
Saturday, May 2 | 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Henry B. González Convention Center
Join us for a reception specifically tailored for advanced practitioners. This event is an opportunity to come together, share best practices and discuss the evolving role of APPs in health care. Participate in meaningful conversations that will motivate and empower you in your professional journey. Whether you’re seeking to expand your network or exchange ideas on patient care, this gathering is the perfect setting for networking while enjoying an array of hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.
Tickets: $45
Matson Reception
Saturday, May 2 | 5:30 – 7pm
San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk
The Donald Matson lectureship and reception were established in the 1980s to honor a virtuoso surgeon and author of the first textbook dedicated to Pediatric Neurosurgery.
NREF Donor Reception
Saturday, May 2 | 5:30 – 7pm
San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk
Join the Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF) for a special reception honoring our donors, affiliated organizations and industry partners. This exclusive event celebrates the vital contributions that make our research and educational initiatives possible, providing an evening of appreciation and networking. We will acknowledge the generous support that fuels innovation and advancement in neurosurgery, allowing you to engage with fellow donors, share insights and explore opportunities for collaboration in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
By Invitation Only
Sponsored by: Medtronic
A Tumor Soirée 2.0: Complications, Innovations and Case Lessons (Hosted by AANS/CNS Sections on Tumors Early Career Neurosurgeon Committee)
Saturday, May 2 | 7 – 10 pm
Tower of the Americas
The AANS/CNS Joint Tumor Section is delighted to host the Tumor Soirée during the 2026 AANS Meeting, building upon the tremendous success of the 2025 event in Boston, which was widely praised for its engaging, high-yield educational content. The event will feature a valuable program of case-based presentations and interactive group discussions, specifically designed to foster essential peer-to-peer learning, mentorship and collaboration across all levels of expertise.
By Invitation Only
Sponsored by: Medtronic and Zeiss
Women In Neurosurgery (WINS) Reception
Saturday, May 2 | 7:30 – 8:30 pm
San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk
Don’t miss the WINS Reception, your chance to power up your network! This isn’t just a gathering—it’s the premier networking event for current and aspiring neurosurgeons from underrepresented minorities. Join us to build vital connections, find mentors and forge lasting collaborations that will shape the future of neurosurgery.
Sponsored by: DePuy Synthes, HighRidge Medical, Medtronic, VB Spine, Stryker
Early to Mid-Career Neurosurgeons Luncheon
Sunday, May 3 | 12:30 – 1:45 pm
Henry B. González Convention Center
Connect with fellow early career neurosurgeons and esteemed colleagues over lunch in San Antonio, Texas at the 2026 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting. This year’s luncheon will also include short presentations regarding practice types. Don’t miss this opportunity to build valuable connections, elevate your career and ask questions in an engaging, relaxed atmosphere!
Tickets: $35
Sponsored by: Medtronic
Rengachary Lecture at the Peter Carmel AANS History Section Dinner
Sunday, May 3 | 6:15 – 9:15 pm
Casa Rio | 430 E. Commerce St. San Antonio on the Riverwalk
Don’t miss the History Section’s annual dinner at Casa Rio, a beloved San Antonio institution and the oldest continuously operating restaurant on the River Walk. Since its establishment in 1946, Casa Rio has been a fixture along the waterway, serving generations of diners amidst its charming riverside setting. This year’s program is extra special: Dr. Bruce Winders, former Historian and Curator of the Alamo, will deliver a keynote address exploring the Siege of the Alamo — diving deep into its people, events, historical legacy and its place in both Texan and US history. His talk promises to be thought-provoking, richly contextualized and a highlight of your San Antonio schedule.
Tickets: $190 Physicians | $50 Residents/Fellows, APPS and Medical Students
Alumni Receptions
Alumni Receptions are an excellent opportunity to network and reconnect with colleagues, classmates and friends. They will be held Friday after 7pm and Saturday/Sunday after 5:30pm.
Browse a full list of alumni receptions at the meeting.
By Invitation Only.