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The Military Child World Expo 2026
3 Days of Celebrations
Program
April 18, 2026 | April 25, 2026 | April 26, 2026 | Arlington, Virginia
The Military Child World Expo 2026 is the only global event dedicated exclusively to military-connected children and families, including those from active duty, Reserve, National Guard, Coast Guard and veteran communities. This year’s Expo is part of America’s 250th Anniversary, making it not only a celebration of resilience and service, but also a historic national milestone.
Over three signature events, the Carrying the Torch of Care Breakfast, the Military Child World Expo, and the America's Torchbearers Showcase of Celebrations, we will honor caregivers, elevate youth leadership, highlight health and education pathways, and celebrate the cultural and creative spirit of the military child.
Day 1
Carrying The Torch of Care - Caregivers Breakfast
Army Navy Country Club | April 18, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A ceremonial opening to The Military Child World Expo 2026 featuring:
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Elegant Breakfast & Networking
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National Anthem & Presentation of Colors
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Sponsor Recognition – BlueCross BlueShield Association
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Keynote Address by a Senior Leader
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Presentation of Certificates to Teen Caregivers (military-connected and civilian), plus recognition of adult caregivers
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Official Launch of the Torch of Care Community Service Hours (TCCSH) National Pilot Program
[View Full Breakfast Schedule →]
Day 2
America's Torchbearers of America's Future
Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, Virginia | 10 AM - 6 PM
The cornerstone event, filled with symposiums, ceremonies, and youth-led activities.
Independence A (Main Stage & Symposiums)
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Family Health & Wellness Symposium
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Mental Health Symposium
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Education Symposium (IEPs, 504s, Purple Star Schools & Higher Ed)
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Adult & Teen Caregiver Recognition Ceremony
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Distinguished Guest Remarks & Keynotes
Independence B (Promise of the Six Pavilion – Youth-Led)
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Torchbearers Youth Summit (the main youth convening)
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Mini-Workshops & Interactive Sessions led by teens
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Launch of TCCSH – Youth Session (teen caregiver recognition, turning care into credit)
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Youth Marketplace Spotlight
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Creative & Wellness Activations (Reflection Lounge, Global Kids Gallery)
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Youth Entertainment & Performances
Shared Across A & B
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Special Entertainment Performances
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Youth Marketplace – spotlighting military youth entrepreneurs
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Sponsor activations and family engagement opportunities
[View Full Expo Schedule →]
Day 3
America's Torchbearers Showcase
Fashion Centre at Pentagon City (A Simon Mall) | April 26, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
A public celebration filled with performances, culture, and recognition.
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Opening Ceremony with Anthem & Colors
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Sponsors Recognition & Welcome
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Youth & Adult Performances (music, dance, spoken word, cultural showcases)
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Special Entertainment Features
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Recognition of Torchbearers
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Closing Ceremony with Retiring of the Colors
[View Full Showcase Schedule →]
Additional Features Across All Days
Caregiver Recognition woven throughout the Expo, from Day 1, certificate presentations to Day 2, symposiums and Pavilion sessions.
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Promise of the Six Pavilion: A teen-led hub inside Independence Center B showcasing the Torchbearers Summit, mini-workshops, and cultural exchange.
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Youth Marketplace: Entrepreneurial exhibits featuring youth-led businesses.
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Performances & Cultural Showcases: Youth and adult performances included in Days 2 & 3.
Accessibility
MCWE 2026 is family-friendly and ADA accessible. Interpreters and accommodations are available upon request to ensure every participant can fully engage.
[Download the Full MCWE 2026 Program (PDF)]
Reserve Exhibit Space
[Register as a Panelist →]