The National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC) is the premier event of the Order of the Arrow and is Scouting America’s second-largest national event. Arrowmen from across the country gather for an inspirational and unforgettable experience filled with fellowship, training, adventure, and fun!
Interested in attending? Complete the Alamo Area Council NOAC Interest Form
- When: July 26 – 31, 2027 (travel days not included)
- Where: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Cost: TBD (the 2024 total cost was approximately $1,200)
- Youth Leaders: Becca Castro and additional youth co-leaders (currently being recruited)
- Adult Leaders: Penny Ludy and Steve Ortiz
- Email: noac@ainatopahutsi.org
- More Information: NOAC 2027 Order of the Arrow, Scouting America
Frequently Asked Questions
What will participants do at NOAC?
During NOAC, Arrowmen will participate in a six-day conference that includes top-notch training sessions, recreational opportunities, evening shows full of theatrics and special effects, and exciting programs. An Activity Schedule with specific individual and group activities will be made available in the spring.
Who is eligible to attend?
Any currently registered and active member of Scouting America and the Order of the Arrow is eligible to attend. Attendance requires the review and approval of our Supreme Chief of the Fire or his designee.
How are we traveling?
It will depend on the number of registered participants. In 2024, we rented 15-passenger vans, but if more participants register, a bus may become cost-effective.
Can we travel separately?
We would like to travel together as much as possible, but we recognize that some families may prefer to travel separately or drop off participants directly at NOAC. Please speak with the contingent leaders to coordinate this on a case-by-case basis.
Where will participants sleep at NOAC?
Participants will stay in one of several residence halls.
What is the food situation?
Most meals during travel to NOAC will be provided as part of the registration cost. While at NOAC, we will eat at the campus dining facilities. Participants may bring snacks or purchase snacks along the way or on campus. We should be able to support specific dietary needs, but please coordinate with contingent leaders so we can plan accordingly.
What does the registration fee cover?
The registration fee is expected to include conference fees, transportation, contingent merchandise, and select travel-related expenses. Our goal is to break even financially while providing a great experience for participants. Lower travel costs may allow us to include additional contingent merchandise for each participant.
What is contingent merchandise?
We plan to provide each participant with a contingent shirt and custom lodge flap and are currently exploring additional items such as activity backpacks, extra shirts, name tags, and patches. The goal of contingent merchandise is to foster a sense of identity and pride within our contingent, and we look forward to involving our Scouts in the creative process. Please contact the contingent leaders if you would like to help design, source, or share ideas for contingent merchandise. Additional shirts and patches may also be available for separate purchase.
How can I pay?
The event page includes payment details, including payment plans and minimum down payment. Fundraising is also available. Council Adventure Cards can be sold and 50% of each sale will go to the Scout to help pay for NOAC. Any and all other fundraising ideas will be considered if volunteers are available to step up and help to organize them. Please speak with contingent leaders if you are interested in additional fundraising opportunities.
What about cancellations or refunds?
Cancellation and refund policies will be finalized once contingent pricing is established. In general, conference fees, travel costs, and contingent merchandise expenses may have different refund deadlines based on when payments are due and when items are ordered.
Is NOAC like National Jamboree?
Both are large national Scouting America events held periodically, but NOAC is specifically for members of the Order of the Arrow, while the National Jamboree is open to all Scouts. Both events provide opportunities to meet Scouts from around the country, participate in exciting activities and training sessions, and trade patches. At NOAC, participants stay in residence halls and experience a college campus environment rather than camping in tents. NOAC also places a stronger emphasis on leadership development, training, and shows. For many Arrowmen, NOAC becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their Scouting journey.
