Leadership Gathering

February 27–March 1, 2026 | Fort Worth, Texas

The Leadership Gathering is an annual conference for APHA and AjPHA leaders to connect and impact the association’s future. At this gathering, meetings take place for advisory committees, the Board of Directors and members. Educational and social activities complete the event schedule, providing an opportunity to interact with Paint enthusiasts from around the world. All APHA members are invited and encouraged to attend. The event takes place annually in late February and early March in Fort Worth, Texas.

Don't Miss Out

Great things happen when passionate Paint Horse leaders come together. Join us at the Leadership Gathering to collaborate, learn and share ideas that will help guide the future of APHA. You’ll leave inspired, connected and ready to lead with purpose.

Let's Get Down to Business

The Meetings

Connect, convene and communicate at the APHA Leadership Gathering. This hands-on event takes place annually in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas. Put yourself in the APHA driver’s seat as you meet other passionate Paint members, engage in productive learning sessions and vote on important issues impacting APHA. All members and Paint enthusiasts are invited and encouraged to attend!

State Directors must attend and answer roll call in the State Directors Meeting Session 1 and Session 2 to be eligible to vote.

The Fun

We’re eager to get you out of the meeting room and exploring North Texas! In past years, we’ve taken behind-the-scenes tours at the American Hat Company and National Ropers Supply, ventured on lively bar crawls in the Stockyards, and indulged in sip-n-shops at the PH Barn Door store, featuring exclusive Leadership Gathering discounts.

Youth Adventure

The Meetings

AjPHA members ages 11-18 are invited to attend the Youth Leadership Gathering. This is an opportunity to meet fellow Youth members, develop your leadership skills and learn firsthand from industry professionals.

The Fun

Make the most of your Fort Worth experience! Previous years have included Stockyards Scavenger Hunts, exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at the Fort Worth Zoo, and thrilling Ghost Tours.

Where to Stay

Hotel Address Room Rate Cut Off Day
Courtyard Fort Worth Historic Stockyards 2537 N Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76164 $279/night 2/13/2026
Hotel Drover 200 Mule Alley, Fort Worth, TX 76164 $499/night 1/26/2026
Hyatt Place Fort Worth Historic Stockyards 132 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164 $459/night 2/5/2026
SpringHill Suites Fort Worth Historic Stockyards 2315 N Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76164 $264/night 1/19/2026
TownePlace Suites Fort Worth Downtown 805 East Belknap St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
Hilton Garden Inn-Fort Worth/Medical Center 912 Northton St, Fort Worth, TX 76104 $159/night
DoubleTree by Hilton-Fort Worth Fossil Creek 4635 Gemini Place, Fort Worth, TX 76106 $129/night

Event Highlights