Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a Regional Gathering?

A. A Regional Gathering (RG) is the Mensa version of a convention or conference. Compared to many other conferences you may have attended, however, we build more fun into an RG. Of course, we also include a fair share of serious and intellectually stimulating events. Activities range from speakers and workshops to games, trivia, contests, puzzles, arts and crafts, music, food and drink – usually you have a choice of several things going on at any one time. The heart of an RG is the Hospitality Suite, where folks can relax and visit while noshing on a variety of snacks and beverages (included in your registration fee). If you are new and don’t know many people, an RG is an ideal place to get acquainted.

Q. What is included in my Registration Fee?

A. Our Hospitality Suite will serve dinner on Friday, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and lunch and dinner on Sunday. In between are snacks, desserts, soft drinks, beer, and wine. Also, all the speakers and the evening entertainment are included in your registration fee.

Q. Tell me more about the Hospitality Suite.

A. The Hospitality Suite is where you can relax and converse with old friends and meet new ones. You’ll always find a beverage or snack to keep you fueled.

Q. Do I have to register for the entire weekend?

A. Yes, we are giving priority to attendees who register for the entire weekend. If you can only come for just one day and you don’t want to pay for the entire weekend, you can contact the RG registrar to find out if/when we may open up attendance for single-day attendance with single day registration rates. You should know, however, that at our last RG in 2024 we filled up with full-weekend attendees before the RG began. We are limiting the attendance to 75 because we want to avoid overcrowding to make sure we have enough seating, food, and drink for all. Our intention is to offer our attendees a positive and enjoyable experience.

Q. What is the price if I want to wait until after July 31 to register?

A. We anticipate that we may sell out by July 31, but if there is still space available, we will determine appropriate pricing and you will be welcome to register.

Q. What speakers and workshops are planned?

A. The schedule of events is coming soon.

Q. What about staying at the hotel?

A. It’s totally up to you. Many attendees like to take a room and make it a mini-vacation. On the other hand, some who live nearby commute each day to save money.

Q. Do I have to be a Mensa member to attend?

A. The RG is for members of Mensa and their guests who accompany them.

Q. What about children?

A. We will have a special track of programs for Gifted Youth, but we are still working on the logistics and pricing. Stay tuned!

Q. I’m coming from out of town. Which airport should I fly into?

A. The hotel is about a 5-minute drive from Orange County’s John Wayne Airport (SNA). The hotel offers a free shuttle to and from Orange County Airport.

Q. When is the best time to register?

A. NOW! You can take advantage of discounted pricing if you register early. If you wait too long to register, we may sell out, and you will miss all the fun.