What is the National Order of the Arrow Conference?

From August 3-8, 2015, Arrowmen from around the country will have the unique opportunity to gather together at Michigan State University to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Order of the Arrow at the 2015 National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC). Over 10,000 Arrowmen are expected to attend the 2015 conference seeking the best that the Order has to offer. Each time a national conference is held, Arrowmen come together from around the world to share ideas, learn from one another, and most importantly experience an outstanding conference that is unlike any other event in Scouting. NOAC is open only to members of the OA.

A typical NOAC day consists of the following:

  • Breakfast
  • Morning Training Sessions
  • Lunch
  • Afternoon Activities and Special Events
  • Dinner
  • Evening Show
  • Evening Activities and Special Events

The training at each NOAC is world class. Trainers at NOAC are hand selected by conference leadership due to their immense knowledge and expertise in a particular subject. Trainers come from around the world to share their expertise so that you may bring information and new ideas back to your home lodge and grow as an individual. Training session range in topics from leadership, to event planning, to Native American crafts, dancing, and ceremonies just to name a few of the many topics available. No matter what you’re interested in there is a NOAC training session for you!

Each afternoon, conference participants can choose to participate in a wide array of actives and special events. The National Order of the Arrow museum will be on display showcasing unique historical items that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

What would a gathering of people from all over the country be without a little competition? Attendees have the opportunity to compete in athletic events like dodge ball and ultimate Frisbee. Arrowmen can also participate in OA ceremonies evaluations to improve their performance and learn from the experts. Interested in Native America dance? We have that too! No matter what your talent there is no shortage of opportunity to showcase them at NOAC.

After dinner, all participants and staff gather at the university’s arena for the evening show. These shows are nothing short of amazing and are on par with what you would expect on Broadway or the biggest touring concert of the year! Each evening show is unique ranging from the opening and closing show, to Native American dance, to national awards and recognition. These shows will remain as one of your fondest memories of NOAC.

After the evening show, there are many opportunities to enjoy fun, food, and fellowship (not to mention trade your favorite patches)!

After an exciting conference like this, what more can a person do than SLEEP! You are going to need your rest to make sure you don’t miss out on all NOAC has to offer.

Interested in attending to conference now? Explore the other areas of this website to learn more about conference details.

Registration is coordinated through your local lodge. Contact your lodge chief and/or adviser to get more information and reserve your spot today!

Last revised on June 24, 2014