Events FAQs

To register for a Policy or Book Forum, visit https://www.cato.org/events/calendar.html, then select the Forum you would like to attend. You may also register by phone at (202) 789-5229, by fax at (202) 371-0841, or e-mail events [at] cato.org. Once you have provided us with complete information (name, affiliation, Forum you would like to attend), you are automatically registered for the Forum. We will not return calls or e-mails to confirm your registration.

Please note that preregistration for Forums closes 24 business hours before the event, even if seating is still available. If you would like to register for an event after preregistration has closed, you are welcome to register on-site on the day of the Forum.

To register for a conference, visit https://www.cato.org/events/upcoming, then select the conference you would like to attend. You may also register by calling (202) 789-5229. Once you have provided us with complete information (name, affiliation, payment information), you will receive a registration confirmation within 48 hours. You will not be registered for the conference unless payment has been received.

Please note that preregistration for conferences usually closes about a week before the event. For specific closing dates, refer to the online conference registration information. If you would like to register for a conference after preregistration has closed, you are welcome to register on-site on the day of the conference. If our website indicates that a conference is sold out, please send your registration information to events [at] cato.org. You will be placed on a waiting list and will be notified if your registration is accepted.

No, registration is required only if you will attend the event. Otherwise, you can watch live streaming video. Archived events are also available.

All Policy and Book Forums are free of charge and open to the public.

Most Cato conferences require a registration fee. Please refer to the online conference registration information for specific registration fees.

Policy and Book Forums last approximately an hour and a half and are usually followed by a buffet luncheon or reception in the Wintergarden.

Conferences usually run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please refer to the online conference information for conference schedules.

Groups are welcome, but we ask that you make a reservation well in advance, as there is limited space in the F. A. Hayek Auditorium. Last minute requests will be considered on the basis of availability. Please e-mail events [at] cato.org or call (202) 789-5229 to inquire about group attendance.

Yes, we usually permit both audio and video recording of our events. Please allow enough time for setup before the event’s start time.

Business attire is requested at all events at the Cato Institute.

The Cato Institute is located on the southwest corner of Massachusetts Avenue and 10th Street, at 1000 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. (Get directions.)

Cato is easy to reach by Metro or car.

There is metered parking available on 10th and 11th Streets and Massachusetts Ave. There are also several nearby parking lots.

We do not make available transcripts of all events; however, all events can be viewed online. Cato events are usually archived within a few days after the event.

Events are listed as they are confirmed on Cato’s event page.