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Free speech has always been America’s most revolutionary idea.

As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, FIREis proud to host , a bold new conference held in Philadelphia, dedicated to the power of expression, the courage of dissent, and the preciousness of our right to speak freely.

Tickets are officially on sale now for Soapbox. Don’t wait to claim your spot at this first-of-its-kind gathering bringing together the leading voices shaping the future of free expression.

What is Soapbox?

Soapbox is more than a conference. It’s ��֭����’s high-energy celebration of free speech culture. From Nov. 4-6, 2026, in Philadelphia, FIREwill gather leading voices in the birthplace of liberty for fearless conversations, captivating debates, immersive entertainment, and a showstopping gala.

You can expect the following:

• High-impact keynotes from some of today’s most fearless thinkers
• Networking opportunities and social gatherings with fellow free-speech enthusiasts
• Timely debates and panels tackling the most pressing challenges to free expression
• Immersive entertainment and activations that turn free speech into a lived experience
• And an unforgettable gala on the evening of Nov. 6 to cap it all off

Soapbox will bring together experts, advocates, artists, celebrities, and supporters. 

Why now?

For more than two decades, FIREhas defended free speech in courtrooms, on campuses, and across our culture. We’ve seen firsthand that free expression is the beating heart of American life, and that today it faces unprecedented challenges, from cancel culture and government censorship to a growing decline of understanding and appreciation for this fundamental right. 

Soapbox is the natural next step. A moment to convene, converse, debate, celebrate, and chart a path forward worthy of this pivotal moment in our nation's history.

Who is it for?

FIRE is nonpartisan, and Soapbox will unite voices from across the political spectrum. Whether you're a longtime advocate or new to the free speech movement, Soapbox is a place to connect, learn, and amplify a culture of free expression.

We're proud to welcome a powerful lineup of speakers who have helped shape and defend the modern free speech movement, including former ACLU President Nadine Strossen, First Amendment expert Eugene Volokh, human rights activist Aryeh Neier, award-winning journalist and author Matt Taibbi, and many more.

Choose your experience

Attendees may purchase:

• Tickets to the conference
• Tickets to the Soapbox Gala on Nov. 6
• Or the full experience, with access to both

Soapbox kicks off the afternoon of Nov. 4 and wraps up in style with our Gala on Nov. 6 from 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Take advantage of early bird pricing and save on select conference tickets. Discounts are applied at checkout.

Save the Date

• Where: Philadelphia, PA (Exact Center City location is shared upon registration.)
• When: Nov. 4-6, 2026
• Who: Professors, advocates, artists, celebrities, thought leaders, supporters, partners who believe in free expression — and you!
• What: Join FIREin the birthplace of liberty for an unforgettable time of fearless conversations, sharp debates, and immersive entertainment celebrating the power of free expression. 

Sign up to stay up to date on all things Soapbox, or reach out with questions or sponsorship interest at soapbox@fire.org.

FIRE