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2026 February NAC Coming to Cincinnati, Ohio

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by Bryan Wendell

An image of the Cincinnati skyline
The Queen City is ready to crown some gold medalists once again as USA Fencing returns to Cincinnati for the February 2026 NAC.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The Queen City is ready to crown some gold medalists once again. For the first time since 2018, Cincinnati will host a North American Cup when the fencing community gathers at the newly renovated Duke Energy Convention Center for the February 2026 NAC, set for Thursday to Sunday, Feb. 12–15, 2026.

The date pattern is a bit different than usual. To help us squeeze in around other activities and events happening at the facility, this NAC will run from Thursday through Sunday, rather than the traditional Friday to Monday. A reminder as well that while Junior Olympics is normally fenced in February, fencers should note that the 2026 Junior Olympics will take place earlier — Jan. 9–12 in Kansas City.

The Cincinnati NAC will feature six event combinations: Division I, Junior, Veteran Age, Veteran Combined, Veteran Team and Parafencing. With such a wide mix of athletes, this tournament will bring together juniors chasing national points, veterans kicking off their national season with the first vet NAC, Para athletes showcasing their skills, and Division I contenders battling for the podium.

The return to Cincinnati comes with a brand-new backdrop. The Duke Energy Convention Center is reopening in January 2026 after a $240 million renovation, and USA Fencing athletes, coaches, referees and families will be among the first to enjoy the upgraded space. 

Between bouts, fencers can explore downtown Cincinnati — from Fountain Square to the Roebling Suspension Bridge — or grab a plate of the city’s iconic Cincinnati chili.

And if you’re looking for a convenient place to stay at a great rate, be sure to use through our booking link, which offers access to our negotiated group rates for the tournament. 

If You Go

  • What: 2026 February North American Cup
  • Where: Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
  • When: Thursday–Sunday, Feb. 12–15, 2026
  • Hotels: Book here
  • Events: Division I, Junior, Veteran Age, Veteran Combined, Veteran Team, Parafencing
  • Note: The 2026 Junior Olympics will take place earlier in the season, Jan. 9–12, in Kansas City
  • Fun Fact: First USA Fencing NAC in Cincinnati since 2018, and one of the first major events following a $240 million convention center renovation.