2025 Annual Meeting FAQs
LOCATION:
Marriott Tacoma Downtown
1538 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402
253.294.9200
Where & When is this year’s event?
The 2025 Annual Meeting is at the Marriott Tacoma Downtown (attached to the Convention Center), November 19 – 21.
There is also a CLE (Continuing Legal Education) Seminar on November 18 and a New Commissioner Seminar November 18 – 19. You can register for each of these by clicking on the registration link at the top of this page.
How do I register for this event?
Please register using our online form so we can collect the correct information. The link to the registration form is located at the top of this page.
Will I receive confirmation of my seminar registration?
Yes. A confirmation email will be sent within 48 hours to both the attendee and the admin email addresses provided during registration.
If you do not receive confirmation within 2 days, please email Mandy Lill or call 360.878.6299.
There was no link to pay for my registration, how do I pay you?
WPPA will send an invoice for all registrations and sponsorships after the event. Payments may be made by check or by calling in a credit card.
What is the dress code?
- Meeting sessions: Business or business‑casual
- Thursday evening Presidents Reception: Cocktail attire suggested
Hotel Information:
If you have a room that you need to cancel – PLEASE CONTACT MANDY FIRST! I may have someone on a waiting list that could use your room. Thank you!
We have a limited number of rooms set aside at this rate so please reserve only what you need.
Room Rate: $149 per night + applicable taxes and fees
You may reserve rooms online using the link above, or by calling 253.294.9200.
Be sure to mention Washington Public Ports Association to receive the group rate.
Please book directly with the hotel, not with third‑party booking sites.
Hotel Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before arrival.
If possible, contact Mandy before cancelling so we can assist attendees in need.
Check‑in: 3:00 pm
Check‑out: 11:00 am
Reservation Deadline:
To guarantee the group rate, reservations must be made by Friday, October 17.
Our room block may sell out before that date—reserve early.
If you encounter issues before the deadline, please email Mandy or call 360.943.0760.
Parking:
The hotel’s attached garage offers a discounted rate of $18 per night for hotel guests.
Phishing & Security Reminder
Please be aware that scammers may impersonate hotel staff. If you receive an email, call, or message asking you to update payment details or provide bank account information, do not respond using the contact details in that message.
If anything seems unusual, confirm directly with the hotel by calling their official phone number or by checking with staff at the front desk.
Is there a registration deadline?
To receive the early‑bird rate, please register by Friday, October 20.
Registrations received after this date will be charged the higher standard rate.
What are the registration fees?
Please refer to the registration page for full details.
Rates increase after October 20.
What does my registration fee include?
Your fee includes all activities and meals listed on the applicable agendas.
Associate Members: The Thursday morning Ports‑Only Breakfast is for registered port attendees only.
Do I need to register my spouse? What can they attend, and is there a charge?
There is no additional fee for a spouse to attend, but please register them in advance.
Your spouse is welcome at:
- Wednesday evening Associate Member Reception
- Thursday evening Presidents Reception & Education Foundation Auction
The Ports‑Only Breakfast on Thursday morning is for registered port attendees only (no guests or associate members).
If you need to add a guest after registering, please email Mandy Lill.
I have dietary restrictions/I’m vegetarian. How do I let you know this?
Please note your dietary needs in the comment section of the registration form.
This helps us coordinate with the hotel in advance.
Because of hotel policies, last‑minute requests may not be accommodated.
For assistance, email Mandy Lill at: mlill@washingtonports.org.
What if I have to cancel?
A $100 administration fee will be applied to cancellations received after November 7, 2025, and to any registrant who does not attend.
I would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities:
We love our sponsors! Sponsorship helps keep attendance fees reasonable and gives your organization visibility on our website, in printed and online materials, and from the podium. Please contact Mandy Lill for more information.
Associate Member Reception – Reserve Your Table!
Join us on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 4:00–6:00 pm, following the general session. This relaxed networking event gives Associate Members and port representatives the chance to connect early in the meeting.
Hosted bar (beer, wine, non‑alcoholic beverages) and light hors d’oeuvres provided.
Associate Members may reserve a display table to showcase their organization.
Details:
- Date: Wednesday, November 19
- Time: 4:00–6:00 pm
- Location: Marriott Tacoma Downtown, Chambers Bay Pre‑Function Area
- Cost: $250 per table (registration not included)
- Additional Staff: Up to 2 reception‑only attendees may be added for $100 each. At least one full meeting registration is required.
- Table Limit: Only 20 tables available—reserve early!
To reserve a table: Email Mandy Lill or call 360.943.0760