Beyond the Classroom: VMX’s Holistic Approach to Extracurricular Activities

Key Takeaways

• The 2026 VMX conference will feature a variety of activities, including a Zen Garden, fitness and well-being center, and 5K Fun Run.
• The conference will also include opportunities for giving back, such as a food packing event, blood drive, and pet adoption.
• Entertainment options will include a concert by Riley Greene, a party, and a closing ceremony featuring the stars of "Critter Fixers: Country Vets."
• Actor John Travolta will serve as the headline speaker for the welcome address, replacing Patrick Dempsey due to scheduling conflicts.
• The conference will celebrate the theme of "Champions of Care" in veterinary medicine, recognizing achievements and advancements in animal wellness.

Introduction to VMX 2026
The 2026 VMX conference is set to be an exciting and engaging event, offering a wide range of activities and opportunities for attendees to learn, network, and give back. The conference will take place from January 17-21, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency hotel and the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. With a theme of "Champions of Care" in veterinary medicine, the conference will celebrate the achievements and advancements of professionals in the field.

Wellness and Self-Care
One of the key features of the conference is the Zen Garden, which will offer a variety of activities and services to promote wellness and self-care. These will include yoga, meditation, art, therapy, and giveaways. Additionally, the fitness and well-being center will provide scheduled yoga, Pilates, stretching, and other activities to help attendees relax and recharge. For those looking for a more energetic activity, the 5K Fun Run will take place on January 19, 2026, starting at 6:30 AM at the Hyatt Regency hotel.

Giving Back
The 2026 VMX conference is not just about learning and networking – it’s also about giving back to the community. The Martin Luther King Jr Day of Service Million Meal Pack is a great opportunity for attendees to make a difference in the Orlando community. Volunteers can sign up for one of several 90-minute sessions to help pack and distribute healthy meals to those in need. A blood drive will also be taking place, with a bus collecting donations outside the South concourse of the convention center. Donors will receive a long-sleeved t-shirt, a $20 e-gift card, and a full wellness checkup. Finally, attendees can also visit the Puppy Playground and the Cat Nap Café to find dogs and cats available for adoption.

Entertainment and Celebrities
The 2026 VMX conference will feature a range of entertainment options, including a concert by country musician Riley Greene on January 18, 2026. This exclusive event is only open to VMX attendees, and promises to be a fun and lively night. A party will also take place on January 19, 2026, with music, food, dancing, and areas to watch a football championship game. The conference will also feature a variety of artwork submitted by veterinarians, technicians, veterinary assistants, practice managers, and other team members and industry professionals, as well as students. This celebration of veterinary artists is a continuation of the 2025 VMX theme, which focused on the arts.

Headline Speaker and Closing Ceremony
The welcome address on January 17, 2026, will be headlined by actor John Travolta, who is replacing Patrick Dempsey due to scheduling conflicts. Travolta, known for his roles in Grease and Pulp Fiction, will speak on behalf of Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The closing ceremony on January 21, 2026, will feature the stars of Nat Geo’s TV show "Critter Fixers: Country Vets," Vernard L. Hodges, DVM, and Terrence Ferguson, DVM. This promises to be an inspiring and entertaining conclusion to the conference.

Conclusion
The 2026 VMX conference promises to be an exciting and engaging event, with a wide range of activities, entertainment options, and opportunities for giving back. With a theme of "Champions of Care" in veterinary medicine, the conference will celebrate the achievements and advancements of professionals in the field. Whether you’re interested in wellness and self-care, entertainment, or making a difference in the community, there’s something for everyone at VMX 2026.