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Every place is as unique as the people who experience it. Each cultural district embodies a tapestry of personal memories, community values, and historical legacies that together form its identity… its story. Leading these districts is synonymous with carrying the responsibility for preserving this identity and simultaneously enabling its evolution – a balancing act as challenging as it is essential.
In today’s complex cultural, social, and economic landscape, how can we honor the history of a place while welcoming the narratives that will shape its future? Whose stories emerge, who gets to tell them, how are they shaped and shared, and which voices are heard?
GCDN is holding its eleventh annual convening in Los Angeles from 18 to 21 May 2025. The event is hosted by The Music Center with support from AEA Consulting, and sponsored by Bloomberg Connects and RIOS.
Inspired by the city’s storytelling heritage and set against its rich multicultural backdrop, this edition explores the unique power of stories to connect people to places and to each other – considering the work of cultural districts’ leaders in weaving these narrative threads to bring these places to life. As communities everywhere strive to (re)define themselves on an ever-shifting world stage, this work has never played a more leading role.
The program includes a variety of formats and activities that invite members and guests to learn from each other, engage in meaningful conversations – both on and off stage – and create or renew connections with global peers. As always, the convening is bookended by an opening evening reception and a day of optional tours and activities to allow for comfortable arrival/departure and more time to explore Los Angeles.
GCDN is an initiative of AEA Consulting. Find out more about GCDN here and please contact us if you have any questions.
All information on this webpage is subject to change – last updated on 19 December 2024.
GCDN membership provides free registration to the convening for two representatives – and a 25% discount on any additional registration.
The GCDN 2025 convening is an invite-only event. Please contact us if you require a code to book your complimentary/discounted tickets as network members, speakers, or guests.
Recommended travel dates: to enjoy the experience of the convening to the fullest, GCDN recommends planning to arrive in Los Angeles by late morning on 18 May and leave on 21 May.
Recommended itinerary (air travel): land at LAX Airport or Hollywood Burbank Airport (depending on point of origin) and then take a taxi to your hotel.
NB: there are limitations to pick up locations at LAX. If you’d like to have a car pick you up directly at arrivals you must book a premium ride option such as Uber Black. Otherwise you’ll have to make your way to the special car exit area using the LAXit free shuttle service. More information here.
We have secured special rates at three partnering hotels at walking distance from The Music Center:
★★★★★: Conrad Hotel at The Grand LA
★★★★: CitizenM Downtown LA
★★★: Kawada Hotel – 12min walk to TMC, starting from $197/night (all taxes included)
You will be redirected to a webpage with more information on accommodation upon registering. You will also receive a link to that page with your registration confirmation email.
Please visit this webpage to check if your country of origin is part of the Visa Waiver Program.
If your country of origin is part of the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain an ESTA prior to boarding a flight to the United States. Please visit this webpage to start an ESTA application.
If your country of origin requires a visa to enter the United States, we recommend starting the process as soon as possible. Please visit this webpage to check your visa options and receive instructions on the application process.