Each September, as Hispanic Heritage Month begins, the nation’s capital welcomes one of the most important gatherings of Latino leaders in the country. The 2026 CHCI Leadership Conference — September 15–16 — and the 49th Annual CHCI Awards Gala on September 17 bring together distinguished leaders from government, business, civil rights, the arts, and beyond at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Here’s everything you need to know about the events and where to stay.

What Is CHCI?

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders. Through scholarships, fellowships, internships, and leadership programs, CHCI has spent decades cultivating the Latino leaders who shape American public policy, business, and culture. The Leadership Conference and Awards Gala are CHCI’s flagship annual events — a three-day celebration of Latino excellence that draws national leaders, elected officials, and rising talent to Washington, DC each year.

The Leadership Conference sessions feature panels, roundtables, and workshops covering topics from economic mobility and civic engagement to healthcare equity and education policy. The Annual Awards Gala is a black-tie celebration recognizing individuals and organizations whose work has left a lasting mark on the Latino community and American society at large.

CHCI Leadership Conference 2026 — Key Details

What to Expect at the 2026 Events

The CHCI Leadership Conference and Awards Gala offer distinct but complementary experiences:

Leadership Conference (September 15–16)

• Opening plenary and policy panels on issues affecting the Latino community
• Networking with fellow leaders, executives, and CHCI alumni
• Young professional programming for Next Generation alumni and fellows
• Capitol Hill and leadership programming as listed on the live CHCI agenda

49th Annual Awards Gala (September 17)

• Black-tie dinner and ceremony — a premier Latino leadership event in Washington, DC
• Award presentations honoring leaders for service and impact
• Keynote and cultural programming reflecting Latino heritage

Treat session times and Gala details as subject to the live program on chci.org.

Getting from Kalorama to the Convention Center

American Guest House is at 2005 Columbia Road NW in Kalorama (Sheridan-Kalorama). Adams Morgan restaurants are nearby. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is downtown near Mount Vernon Square — not a short walk from Kalorama.

• Walk about 7–10 minutes to Dupont Circle Metro (Red Line).
• Continue toward Mt Vernon Square / 7th St–Convention Center (Green/Yellow).
• Rideshare from Kalorama to Allen Y. Lew Place NW works outside peak congestion.

We are a historic 1893 bed and breakfast with 11 ensuite rooms, one block from the Washington Hilton (~2 minutes) — useful if your week mixes Convention Center days with quieter Northwest evenings.

Breakfast, check-in, parking

• Breakfast is included on the Standard Rate and Last Minute Deal only.
• Check-in 4pm–10pm; luggage from 10am.
• No on-site parking; street often 2-hour residential; use SpotHero or paid lots. Never free on-site.

Washington DC During Hispanic Heritage Month

September is one of the best months to be in Washington, DC. While attending CHCI events, make time for the Smithsonian museums, the U Street Corridor, Adams Morgan dining nearby, and an evening walk around the Tidal Basin.

Book Your Stay at the American Guest House

Rooms fill for Hispanic Heritage Month and Convention Center weeks. Reserve early for the CHCI Leadership Conference and Awards Gala.

Check Rates & Availability

Sources: chci.org, Events DC. Updated 5 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CHCI Leadership Conference?

The CHCI Leadership Conference is the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s flagship annual conference, bringing together national leaders, elected officials, and emerging Latino talent for two days of panels, networking, and policy discussions. It takes place September 15–16, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC.

When is the CHCI Annual Awards Gala 2026?

The 49th Annual CHCI Awards Gala takes place on September 17, 2026, in Washington, DC, as part of the CHCI conference and gala week at the Convention Center.

How do I get to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center from American Guest House?

Walk 7–10 minutes to Dupont Circle Metro (Red Line), then continue to Mt Vernon Square / 7th St–Convention Center (Green/Yellow), or take a rideshare to 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW. It is not a short walk from Kalorama.

Is breakfast included at American Guest House?

Homemade breakfast is included with Standard Rate and Last Minute Deal only.

Is there free parking on site?

No. There is no on-site lot and parking is never free on site. Street parking is often 2-hour residential; use SpotHero for nearby garages.