The CAO Congress is back! After Quebec City in 2023, join us in Halifax for a first evening of festivities before beginning your continuing education program. You'll have the opportunity to catch up with colleagues and representatives from every province, attend the presentation of the CAO's prestigious awards and enjoy traditional Nova Scotia music. Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate the optometric community, complete with a locally-flavored aperitif.

Dress code: business casual

Historic Tall Ship Silva - Offered in conjunction with the 2025 CAO Congress

Your visit to Halifax will simply not be complete without experiencing a scenic sailing cruise on the world’s second-largest natural harbour – The Halifax Harbour. Join us abord the Halifax’s signature ship, the Tall Ship Silva, for local, live music and to see the sights, city, and coastline, from a unique perspective. While on board our historic, three-masted schooner, you’ll see some of Halifax’s most well-known landmarks including Georges Island National Historic Site, the Historic Properties, the vibrant waterfront, and the scenic Northwest Arm. If conditions are favourable, you’ll be invited to join the crew in raising the sails. So come, relax, refresh with a beverage or two from the onboard bar, and enjoy your leisurely sailing cruise on the water.

REGISTRATION

• Registration is FREE but required. Donations are encouraged on site.
• Limited capacity available - spots will be reserved on a first come - first served basis
• Registration is open to all 2025 CAO Congress registrants
• Registrants are limited to one guest
• Must be at least 18yrs old to attend

Sold out but wait list is available. If you want to be added to the wait list, please contact COETF@outlook.com

Step into the future of eye care at the Innovation Night by Alcon. This dynamic, interactive event will dive into the future of contact lens innovation, unveil the latest advancements in surgical technology, and explore powerful patient insights that can shape your practice while driving patient satisfaction.

Enjoy engaging presentations from three renowned speakers – Dr. James Wolffsohn, Dr. Carla Mack, and Dr. Anu Ondhia who will share cutting edge perspectives and practical takeaways. With food and beverages, and a vibrant atmosphere, there is more than just a night a learning – it’s a celebration of the progress and partnership in optometry.

Spots are limited and exclusive to ODs (sorry no guests). Please RSVP early to reserve you place!

Sign-up Here

We’re pleased to invite friends and alumni to the University of Waterloo’s reception at the Halifax Convention Centre during CAO Congress! We look forward to visiting with friends, providing an update on the Waterloo Eye Institute, and saying farewell to our Director, Dr. Woo, and welcoming our incoming Director in beautiful Halifax.

For any inquiries, please contact optometry.alumni@uwaterloo.ca.

Sign-up here

In a Blink: Not your typical networking night.

No stiff intros. No surface small talk. Just real conversations — fast, fun, and full of purpose.

We’re bringing fast-paced, fun, and meaningful connections to the beautiful Maritime Museum of the Atlantic! Join us in a speed networking social with special guest Menna Riley. Mingle over one of our signature cocktails and food (stations and roaming servers) in a stunning waterfront setting as you move through quick, rotating conversations that spark meaningful dialogue, cross-generational connection, and authentic professional relationships.

Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned leader, you’ll leave with new insights, expanded connections — and real tools to follow through beyond the event.

Come for the venue. Stay for the vibes. Leave changed — In a Blink.

We welcome and encourage optometrist attendees of all gender identities who share a passion for advancing gender equity in the profession.

Sign-up here

Explore the event details and updates on CWEC website: https://www.canadianwomenineyecare.ca/

Canadian Museum of Immigration (Pier 21)

Join us for a unique evening in a unique setting, and discover the stories hidden within the walls of Pier 21, Canada's sixth national museum. You'll begin your journey with an exhibition tracing the journey of newcomers to Canada in a festive atmosphere, before taking part in a “Kitchen Party”.

Gourmets and epicureans of all kinds can enjoy a cocktail dinner with a menu featuring products from Nova Scotia. Enjoy artistic performances that will keep you rocking until the end of the night, and don't miss this last rendezvous for unforgettable memories!

Dress code: business casual

ANNOUNCEMENT: We have reached capacity at the venue for the Closing Dinner, and tickets are now sold out. A waiting list has been opened and you can add your name to the list as part of registering. Priority will be given to Full Program OD registrants. Please ensure that you click the box on the Ticketed Events page within the registration form to add your name to the waitlist. You will be contacted to confirm should a ticket become available.