Logistics: Conference Schedule, Housing and Location

Conference Schedule

Thursday, May 20

9 am - 5:30 pm Pre-Conference Training Workshop: How to Build a Local BALLE Network with Michelle Long, executive director of BALLE
2 pm – 6 pm Pre-Conference Living Economy Tour of Charleston (I)

Friday, May 21

9 am – 3 pm BALLE Annual Network Leader Meeting
12 pm – 4 pm Living Economy Tours of Charleston (II & III)
5 pm Main Conference Opening Reception: Opening Reception and Presentations, with the Mayor of Charleston
7 pm Local Dine Around

Saturday, May 22

7:30 am Continental Breakfast
8:30 am Morning Plenary Sessions in the Silcox Auditorium
1 pm Catered Lunch
2:30 pm - 5:30 pm 12 Breakout Sessions
7 pm Bluegrass and Brew with Pecha Kucha-style network innovations, BBQ and dancing

Sunday, May 23

7:30 am Continental Breakfast
8:30 am Morning Plenary Sessions in the Silcox Auditorium
1 pm Catered Lunch
2:30 pm - 5:30 pm 12 Breakout Sessions
7 pm Closing Reception and Dinner: Taste of the Lowcountry

Housing Information

This year, we have lined up two great housing options for you:

George Street Apartments: "upperclassmen" dorms on the College of Charleston campus; $35/night per person plus linen charge. To register, download the form attached and send it to the College of Charleston to confirm your reservation.
Francis Marion Hotel: Charleston's finest independent hotel in the heart of downtown; $189/night. To register, click here and use the code "BALLE " to receive your discounted rate.

About the Lowcountry

Learn about Charleston and the inspiring work of our local hosts Lowcountry Local First.

Conference Location

Our conference will be held on the campus of the College of Charleston in the historic center of downtown.