Social Events

Several social events are taking place as part of the 2025 CAO Congress. Find all the details below.

Opening Ceremony

Wednesday, July 2, 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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

COETF Boat Cruise

Wednesday, July 2, 2025
7:30 PM - 10:00 PM

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

Questions? Contact: coetf@outlook.com

Innovation Night by Alcon, Diamond Sponsor

Thursday, July 3, 2025
6:30 PM - 11:00 PM

More details to come

UWOVS Reception

Friday, July 4, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Halifax Convention Centre : 603-604

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.

Registration link to come. For any inquiries, please contact optometry.alumni@uwaterloo.ca.

Canadian Women in Eye Care (CWEC) event

Friday, July 4, 2025
6:00 PM - 11:30 PM

More details to come.

Closing Dinner

Saturday, July 5, 2025
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM

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