Oban Convention 2026 Oban, Scotland, United Kingdom
Overview
The Oban Convention is a long-standing and respected gathering that brings together members of the Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon communities for a weekend of reflection and mutual support. Hosted in the picturesque coastal town of Oban, this annual event serves as a vital touchstone for individuals in recovery across Scotland and the wider United Kingdom. The 2026 edition marks the 49th year of the convention, centered around the powerful theme of Freedom in Recovery, providing a structured environment for sharing experiences and strengthening fellowship.
Throughout the three-day program, attendees participate in a variety of closed and open meetings designed to foster spiritual growth and emotional resilience. The event successfully balances its core mission of recovery with social connection, featuring organized gatherings and evening entertainment that allow participants to connect in a relaxed, sober environment. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Firth of Lorn, the convention offers a unique opportunity for attendees to step away from daily life and focus on their personal journey alongside a supportive, global community.
Event Highlights
- Freedom in Recovery Theme The 2026 program is specifically curated to explore the various dimensions of freedom found through sobriety and the twelve-step program.
- AA and Al-Anon Collaboration The convention features integrated participation, offering specialized tracks for both Alcoholics Anonymous members and Al-Anon family groups.
- Disco and Social Evening A popular highlight of the weekend is the Saturday night social event, which provides a safe and energetic space for dance and fellowship.
- Literature and Resource Hub A dedicated space is provided for browsing a vast collection of recovery literature, offering tools and resources for continued personal development.
Why Attend
The Oban Convention is an essential event for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the recovery process while surrounded by a deeply compassionate community. It is particularly beneficial for those who value the heritage of the fellowship, as the Oban gathering is one of the oldest and most established conventions in the region. The event provides a rare space where both the individual in recovery and their family members can find tailored support and shared wisdom under one roof.
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Beyond the formal sessions, the convention offers a restorative escape to one of Scotland’s most beautiful seaside towns. Many attendees find that the combination of intense emotional work during the meetings and the calming influence of the Scottish Highlands creates a perfectly balanced weekend. Whether you are in the early stages of your journey or have many years of sobriety, the convention offers new perspectives, lifelong friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose in your daily life.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates February 6, 7, and 8, 2026 (Friday to Sunday).
- Duration: The event spans a full weekend, starting Friday afternoon and concluding with a final meeting on Sunday morning.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Oban, Scotland, United Kingdom.
- Venue: The Corran Halls.
- Google Maps Address: 54 Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll and Bute, PA34 5AB, Scotland.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold Registration is managed exclusively online through the official convention website to ensure capacity limits are maintained.
- Admission Type: The standard registration provides a full weekend pass covering all scheduled meetings and venue access.
- Ticket Pricing The registration fee for the 2026 convention is approximately $16 for the full weekend, with a separate charge of $3 for the Saturday disco.
- Pricing Range The minimum price is $3 for the social evening, and the maximum price for full weekend registration is approximately $16.
- Special Seating or VIP Options There are no VIP tiers, as the convention operates on a principle of equality; however, accessible seating is provided for all sessions upon request.
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Contact Information
- Email obanconvention@gmail.com
- Phone +44 800 0086 811
- Website https://obanconvention.co.uk
Getting There
- Nearest Airports Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is approximately 140 km away, which is about a 2 hour and 15 minute drive or bus journey.
- Public Transport Frequent train services run from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban station ($25); the West Coast Motors bus service connects Oban to various Highland towns.
- Taxi/Rideshare Local taxi services like Oban Taxis are available for transport from the station to the venue for approximately $10.
- Parking Public parking is available at the Corran Halls and nearby on-street bays for roughly $15 per day; please check local signage for Sunday restrictions.
- Other Access The venue is a flat 10 minute walk from the ferry terminal and main town center, making it very accessible for those staying locally.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels Perle Oban Hotel and Spa (4-star, 0.5 km, elegant harbor views and full spa, ~$220-350 per night); The Alexandra Hotel (3-star, 0.1 km, Victorian style ~$180-280 per night).
- Mid-Range Options Best Western Ship Hotel (3-star, 0.4 km, traditional harbor-side stay, ~$110-170 per night); Columba Hotel (3-star, 0.3 km, historic building with modern amenities ~$120-190 per night).
- Budget Stays Oban Youth Hostel (SYHA, 0.2 km, clean and modern with private rooms available, ~$45-90 per night); Corran House Guest House (2-star, 0.1 km, simple and comfortable ~$65-110 per night).
Reviews
- The atmosphere of support in the room during the open meetings was something I will never forget.
- Oban is such a peaceful location for a convention and the Corran Halls provided a great space for us all.
- I really enjoyed the Saturday disco as it was a great way to celebrate our recovery in a fun and safe way.
Maps
Contact
FAQ's
Is it possible to register for the convention on the day of the event?
The organizers strongly recommend online registration in advance because the venue has a strict capacity that is often reached before the weekend begins. If there are any remaining spots, they may be offered at the door, but this is not guaranteed and usually results in disappointment for travelers. Check the official website in the weeks leading up to February to see if registration has officially closed.
Are children allowed to attend the convention meetings?
While the convention is focused on adult recovery, Al-Anon often has members who bring family, though the content is geared toward mature themes. Parents are responsible for their children at all times and are asked to ensure that meetings remain quiet and focused for all participants. There are no dedicated childcare facilities provided at the venue, so please plan your attendance accordingly.
Will there be food provided as part of the registration fee?
The registration fee covers entry to the meetings and tea, coffee, and soft drinks which are available throughout the weekend. Full meals are not provided by the convention, but the venue is located within walking distance of numerous cafes and restaurants in Oban. Many attendees choose to eat together in the town center to continue the fellowship between the morning and afternoon sessions.
What should I do if I require accessibility assistance at the venue?
The Corran Halls is a fully accessible venue with ramps and elevator access to ensure that all attendees can move between meeting rooms. If you have specific requirements, such as a need for a hearing loop or reserved space for a wheelchair, please contact the organizers via email. The staff and volunteers are very experienced in helping attendees with mobility issues and will be happy to assist you upon arrival.
Can I attend the convention if I am not a member of AA or Al-Anon?
The convention features "Open" meetings which are available to anyone interested in the twelve-step program or the recovery process in general. However, "Closed" meetings are strictly reserved for those who have a desire to stop drinking or who are family members of alcoholics. The program clearly labels each session so that visitors know which meetings are appropriate for them to attend.
