Schedule of Events
Please note that all activities and events are subject to change or cancellation.
Wednesday, September 16
The Brainstorm Summit
The Brainstorm Summit brings the pediatric brain tumor community together for hope and healing. Now in its 5th year, it is the epicenter for conversations on advocacy, research, clinical trial construction, and industry support around pediatric cancer.
Wednesday, September 16 through 4:00 pm Friday, September 18 at the DoubleTree Hotel at Tysons Corner, McLean, VA. A short 10-minute, one-stop Metro ride from the JW Marriott.
Registration open through September 16.
Room block ends August 27. Rooms are $179/night Tuesday - Thursday and $119/night Friday - Sunday.
Hosted by The Brainstorm Summit
For More Details and to Register
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Thursday, September 17
The 17th Annual Childhood Cancer Summit
The 17th Annual Childhood Cancer Summit, hosted by Congressman Michael McCaul and the Congressional Childhood Cancer Caucus, is on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 9:30am ET on Capitol Hill.
The Summit will bring together Members of Congress, advocates, researchers, healthcare professionals, and members of the childhood cancer community in support of ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for children and families affected by pediatric cancer.
The 15th Annual Golden Toast
The Golden Toast reception is held each September on the eve of the Congressional Childhood Cancer Caucus Summit and CureFest.
Thursday, September 17 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
LiUNA's Headquarters, 9th Floor Veranda 905 16th Street Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20006
The event is full. If you would like to be put on the waitlist, email Hello@CarsonLeslieFoundation.org
Friday, September 18
CLIMB THE HILL Youth Advocacy Day
Children and young adults will visit Congressional offices in groups led by a Youth Leader.
This is an all-day event.
Hosted by Kids V Cancer
To register and for more information, please visit the Climb the Hill info page
Please contact Jenn at jenn@kidsvcancer.org with any questions.
Family Welcome Night
An informal gathering for the childhood cancer community, as a way to kick off the weekend. The event features a DJ, a sign making station for the Rally to the Capitol which takes place on Saturday, kids activities, bereavement support and more.
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Freedom Plaza
Hosted by CureFest
The CureFest Collective
Social event exclusively for fighters, survivors and siblings, ages 13 - 29 years old, to connect with each other and to share their stories and experiences.
This year's event will be held at the historic Hard Rock Cafe in Washington, DC. There will be dinner, a DJ, karaoke, bingo, and a dance floor.
6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. at the Hard Rock Cafe in DC
Hosted by CureFest
Saturday, September 19
CureFest Tribute Wall Display
Each year, CureFest features tribute walls honoring childhood cancer fighter, survivors and angels.
The Tribute Walls will be on display on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets from Saturday, September 19 at 4:00 pm to Sunday, September 20 at 12:30 pm.
Hosted by CureFest
State of Sarcoma
Engage with leading researchers and families fighting to make a difference for kids battling sarcomas. The State of Sarcoma presentation and networking event is for families, friends, and childhood cancer advocates affected by Rhabdomyosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and all other pediatric sarcomas.
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel - Penn. Ave Terrace
Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am - 10:30 am
A networking hour will follow
Hosted by sarcoma organizations
For More Details and to Register
Please contact Nick Mracek at nick@mightymillie.org with any questions.
Cancer Hope Network Hopeful Hearts
Cancer Hope Network's Hopeful Hearts sessions bring parents of children with cancer together to explore the emotional realities of caregiving, including isolation, fatigue, and the healing power of shared experience.Through guided discussions and reflective activities, participants build practical support strategies and discover how their own journey can become a source of hope for other families.
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel
Hosted by Cancer Hope Network
Session 1 — The Weight We Carry: Reducing Isolation Through Connection
Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Explore the emotional toll of caregiving and how connecting with fellow parents can ease isolation, reduce caregiver fatigue, and build a stronger support network.
Session 2 — Turning Experience Into Hope: The Healing Power of Peer Support
Saturday, September 19 from 11:00 am - 12:30 am
Discover how shared experience heals both ways — what the research says about peer support, and how helping others can be part of your own healing journey.
For More Details and to Register
Please contact Kristen Alexander at kristen@awoccf.org with any questions.
Childhood Cancer Fighter Connection
A wellness workshop designed specifically for childhood cancer fighters who are in active treatment. This engaging session offers children and teens a chance to connect with peers who understand their unique experience, participate in meaningful activities
that support healthy coping and self-expression, and enjoy time in a space designed just for them.
For ages 5-17
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, part of "Thrive" initiative
Childhood Cancer Survivor Connection
A wellness workshop designed specifically for survivors of childhood cancer. This engaging session offers children and teens a chance to connect with peers who
understand their unique experience, participate in meaningful activities that support healthy coping and self-expression, and enjoy time in a space designed just for them.
For ages 5-17
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am - 10:30 am
*This session is on a waitlist*
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, part of "Thrive" initiative
For More Details and to Register
Bereaved Sibling Workshop
For siblings of a child lost to cancer, we invite them to join other bereaved siblings for a special workshop focused on sharing and understanding. Led by a Pediatric Oncology RN experienced in helping children manage grief, this session offers age-appropriate activities and a safe space for support and understanding.
For ages 5 - 17
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19
Session 1: 9:00 am - 10:30 am *This session is on a waitlist*
Session 2: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Session 3: 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Hosted by 1Voice Foundation and Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation
For More Details and to Register
Fighter/Survivor Sibling Connection
A wellness workshop designed specifically for siblings of childhood cancer fighters or survivors. This engaging session offers children and teens a chance to connect with peers who understand their unique experience, participate in meaningful activities that support healthy coping and self-expression, and enjoy time in a space designed just for them.
For ages 5-17
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am - 10:30 am
*This session is on a waitlist*
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, part of "Thrive" initiative
For More Details and to Register
Bereaved Dad Support
If you lost your child to childhood cancer, we invite you to join other bereaved fathers for a supportive, peer-led gathering focused on shared experiences and understanding. Facilitated by 1Voice Foundation, this session provides a secure environment for camaraderie and mutual respect and strength.
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Session 1: 9:00 - 10:30 am
Session 2: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Session 3: 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Hosted by 1Voice Foundation and Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation
For More Details and to Register
Bereaved Mom Support
If you lost your child to childhood cancer, we invite you to join other bereaved mothers for a compassionate, peer-supported gathering dedicated to sharing and healing together. Facilitated by 1Voice Foundation, this session offers a space for bonding and fellowship.
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Session 1: 9:00 - 10:30 am *This session is on a waitlist*
Session 2: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm *This session is on a waitlist*
Session 3: 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Hosted by 1Voice Foundation and Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation
For Siblings, By Siblings
A wellness session specifically for siblings of childhood cancer fighters, survivors and angels. The session will give siblings an opportunity to connect with one another, share resources, and receive peer support through discussions and activities.
For ages 17 – 29
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19
Session 1: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Session 2: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Session 3: 1:30 am - 3:00 pm
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, part of "Thrive" initiative
For More Details and to Register
Faith and Loss
A session lead by Pastor Alan Disbrow - Bereaved Dad and Grandfather
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19
Session 1: 9:00 - 10:30 am
Session 2: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Session 3: 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation
For More Details and to Register
In Our Words: Voices of Childhood Cancer
A Treatment Journey Discussion with Devon & Leah Still
United Therapeutics Oncology is proud to host In Our Words: Voices of Childhood Cancer, an interactive patient and family discussion taking place at CureFest on Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10am-12pm, at CureFest in Washington, D.C. Featuring Devon Still, former NFL player, and Leah Still, neuroblastoma survivor, this session will bring parents and caregivers together to share real experiences, practical insights, and lessons learned throughout the childhood cancer journey. Whether you are newly diagnosed, in treatment, navigating survivorship, or honoring an angel, join us for meaningful conversation and support from a community that understands.
For Parents/Caregivers
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19 from 10 am to 12 pm
Hosted by United Therapeutics Oncology & Devon Still
For More Details and to Register
Please contact Paige Gilchrist at pmiller@unither.com with any questions.
Young Adult: Fighter/Survivor Connection
A wellness session specifically for young adult childhood cancer fighters and survivors, which will give folks an opportunity to connect with one another, share resources, and receive peer support through discussions and activities.
For ages 18 – 29
Held inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
Saturday, September 19 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, part of "Thrive" initiative
For More Details and to Register
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30s and Beyond: Survivor Peer Support Session
A wellness session, specifically for childhood cancer survivors age 30 and older, offering the opportunity to connect with one another, share resources, and receive peer support through discussions and activities.
For ages 30+
Saturday, September 19 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm inside the JW Marriott Hotel.
For More Details and to Register
10th Annual Rally to the Capitol
Family-friendly awareness and advocacy rally to the United States Capitol. To ensure a smooth start, we ask that you arrive by 12:45 p.m. on the National Mall, near the Smithsonian Castle. The Rally will begin at 1 p.m. at the Smithsonian Carousel. Map. Participants then march, as a group, toward the Capitol.
Hosted by CureFest and the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research
Meet and Greet
Informal gathering of childhood cancer families and advocates. The event features sponsor tents, foundation tables, bereavement support, kids activities, face painting and more.
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest
Night of Golden Lights
Speeches and performances by sponsors, members of the childhood cancer community, advocates and the medical community.
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest
Candlelight Vigil
A powerful vigil honoring individuals and families impacted by childhood cancer.
9:00 pm to 9:30 pm on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest
Sunday, September 20
Hope and Healing Worship Service
Music by Sydney Sherwood and a Message of Hope from Pastor Alan Disbrow.
8:30 am – 9:30 am inside the JW Marriott*
No RSVP necessary.
Hosted by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation
* Please note new time.
CureFest Tribute Wall Display
Each year, CureFest features tribute walls honoring childhood cancer fighter, survivors and angels.
The Tribute Walls will be on display on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets from Saturday, September 19 at 4:00 pm to Sunday, September 20 at 12:30 pm. (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest
Festival
Speeches, musical performances, and dance tributes. On site, there is also bereavement support as well as kids activities with face painting, crafts and games.
10:30 am – 12:00 pm on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest
Childhood Cancer Shoe Memorial Ceremony
12:00 pm on the National Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets (*Please note new location.)
Hosted by CureFest and the 1Voice Foundation
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