Up-Down Arcade Bar, 3012 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408, USA
Join Minnesota Furs at Up-Down Minneapolis for an evening of arcade games, pizza and catching up with the local furry community. The venue has more than 50 games from the 1980s and 1990s, pinball, skee-ball, Nintendo 64 gaming, giant Jenga and Connect Four, with Killer Queen on hand for anyone feeling competitive. This is the weekday edition, intended to offer a calmer alternative to the weekend meet.
The October gathering runs from 7pm to 11pm and is strictly 21+. Bring photo ID for the door, RSVP through MNFurs and leave your fursuit at home. Games cost $0.25 each, with machine tokens available at the venue; food and drinks are extra. Even on a weekday this is a public arcade bar, so expect it to get busier later in the evening.
Color Me Mine, 1713 Preston Road, Suite B, Plano, TX 75093, USA
Put those creative paws to work at Plano's monthly Furry Paint Day. Color Me Mine hosts a two-hour pottery-painting meet with @subdae, giving local furs a morning to paint, chat and meet people from the community. The October session runs from 11am to 1pm, and you can bring your fursona to the pottery even if you have never picked up a paintbrush before.
All ages are welcome, and the event flyer welcomes fursuits too. Reserve ahead for a $5 studio fee; walk-ins pay a $10 studio fee and depend on space being available. Arrive early to make the most of the painting time, and check the studio's booking details for pottery costs and availability. October's date is confirmed, but a fixed monthly repeat rule has not been announced.
Downey Park, Pavilion 1, 10107 Flowers Avenue, Orlando, FL 32825, USA
Pack something to share and join Union Park Furs for a monthly potluck in Orlando. October's gathering runs from 10am to 5pm at Downey Park's Pavilion 1, with a Halloween costume contest adding a little seasonal mischief. Fursuits are welcome but optional; for the contest, a suit needs an extra costume element to qualify.
Bring food, drinks or games if you can, and label homemade dishes with their ingredients. Under-14s need a parent or legal guardian, and everyone's clothing must stay suitable for a public family setting. Parking is free. Check the organiser's Eventbrite page and Telegram or Discord for attendance details and updates before setting out.
Round 1, SkyView Mall, 131-07 40th Road, Flushing, NY 11354, USA
Bowling lanes, arcade machines and fellow furs await at New York Furs' October Round 1 meet in Flushing. The group meets at SkyView Mall from 3pm, with the event running until 11pm for adults. Come for games, catch up with the New York community, and decide how much bowling or arcade time you fancy.
RSVP is required through NYFurs. Registration is free; activities are paid separately, with bowling at $14.50 per game plus $4.50 shoe hire. This meet is 16+: under-16s cannot attend even with a guardian, and 16–17-year-olds must leave by 7.30pm. Fursuits are permitted, but remove your head if security asks.
October's meet is in Flushing only. The group plans to return to Hicksville in November, so do not assume the same venue for the next monthly outing.
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 1 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA, St. Louis, US
Gateway FurMeet (GFM) is a furry convention running from October 16 to 19, 2026, at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark in St. Louis. This is the 10th birthday edition, so expect a bit more energy than usual. It is a solid mid-size event that has grown into a reliable fall anchor for the community, with the 2025 run drawing over 1,200 attendees. The venue is right in the downtown core near Busch Stadium, which makes getting around and finding food easy.
The programming leans heavily into dance and performance. The headline event is Cardinal Clash, a 1v1 single-elimination dance bracket capped at sixteen dancers. You do not need a fursuit to compete, but the judging looks for dynamics and personality. There is also a strong charity focus, with the 2026 partner being St. Louis Pet Rescue. The convention has a history of raising significant funds for local adoptions, so it is a good one to support if you care about the local scene.
DragonMelde is the Guest of Honor for 2026. If you are bringing a minor, note that parental consent forms must be notarized in specific scenarios, such as when a 17-year-old attends alone. It is a straightforward, well-run con that feels welcoming without being overwhelming. Just make sure you check the specific badge tiers and dates before you book your travel.
Grand Sierra Resort & Casino, 2500 E 2nd St, Reno, NV 89595, USA, Reno, US
Biggest Little Fur Con (BLFC) is a North American furry convention taking place from 12 to 15 October 2026 at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada. Organised by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Reno Area Anthropomorphic Arts and Recreation (RAAAR), the event is held entirely within the resort, allowing attendees to access convention spaces, an infinity pool, a bowling alley, and casino amenities without leaving the building. The 2026 edition features a nautical theme titled 'BLFC @ Sea!', with registration tiers including Attendee, Sponsor, and Super Sponsor levels that offer varying access to exclusive pool nights, early badge pickup, and specific swag items such as Hawaiian shirts and commemorative postcards.
The convention programme emphasises social interaction and participation, featuring three music stages running nightly, a dedicated pool party, and a dealers den. Accessibility measures include express registration lanes for those with mobility impairments and the option to request ASL interpreters for major events. Age policies permit attendees aged 16 and 17 to attend with a signed, notarised parental consent form and photo ID, while those 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent at all times. The resort offers free parking and a complimentary airport shuttle service, with a free shuttle pass required for the return trip to the airport in 2026.
Attendees can book rooms in the Grand Sierra Resort block, with standard rates starting at $171 per night for king rooms and $188 for queen rooms, inclusive of taxes and fees. The hotel does not charge a resort fee for this event, and all rooms in the convention block allow up to four guests at no extra charge. Pre-registration is recommended to secure badge art selection and faster entry, with prices remaining at $100 for the full duration, though reduced rates are available for Wednesday and Thursday-only attendance if registered on-site.
NYC FurWalk heads to Governors Island for a day out with New York's furry community. This rescheduled edition brings fursuiters and fellow furs together for an island walk, listed from 11am to 5pm with the island meeting point at Soissons Landing. Minors are welcome, and an optional $3 badge is available if you fancy a little souvenir for your lanyard.
The new date is 10 October; existing registrations and payments remain valid. Ferry travel needs a separate reservation, so check the organiser's updated travel instructions before choosing a sailing. Some older itinerary text still mentions the original September date: follow the rescheduling notice and latest Telegram announcements when making your plans.
Chula Vista Resort, 2501 River Rd, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA, Wisconsin Dells, US
AquatiFur is a furry convention held at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells, running from October 9 to 11, 2026. The 2026 edition adopts the Legends of the Hidden Temple theme, bringing an adventure vibe to the weekend. This event is distinct for combining standard programming with an indoor waterpark setting, a format that has grown significantly since its start. You can expect attendee-led panels, social meet-ups, and dance events alongside the usual convention activities.
The venue is a full-service resort with over 600 suites, pools, and restaurants, so there is plenty to do beyond the main hall. Organizers provide dedicated fursuit drying rooms to help keep suits safe in the humid environment. Note that fursuits are not permitted in the pool or hot tub, a rule that helps maintain hygiene and comfort for everyone. The atmosphere remains casual and community-focused, with a PG rating during the day and PG-13 content allowed after 8 pm in public areas.
Wisconsin Dells is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, making this a natural fit for the group. The location is accessible via I-90 and I-94, sitting between Madison and Minneapolis. Parking at the resort is free and spacious, which helps if you are driving up. The community has a strong track record of supporting animal rescues, having raised funds for Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary in recent years. It is a solid choice if you want a mid-sized con with a unique resort feel.
DoubleTree by Hilton Omaha Downtown, 1616 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA, Omaha, US
Heartland Howloween (HHFC) is a Halloween-themed furry convention taking place from 9 to 11 October 2026 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Omaha Downtown in Omaha, Nebraska. As the second edition of the event, it features an expanded party floor and larger raves, blending furry culture with a strong rave identity. The venue is located in the city centre, close to the historic Old Market district and the Gene Leahy Riverfront, offering convenient access to local dining and entertainment.
The convention is organised by Heartland Furries, a 501c3 non-profit, and prioritises local talent and community support. The 2026 edition welcomes Dragon Roast as the Guest of Honour. Programming includes a variety of panels, ranging from witchcraft basics to morning meditation, alongside a dedicated party floor for attendees. The event also features a silent auction to support its charitable partner.
For 2026, Heartland Howloween is donating to the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska’s Youth Fund, which supports youth aged 0–20 with items such as football gear, outdoor equipment, regalia, music lessons, and educational expenses. Registration tiers range from $60 to $1,000, with higher tiers offering additional perks such as VIP lounge access, banquet dinners, and backstage access.
The Hiyu boarding point, South Lake Union Park, 860 Terry Avenue N, Seattle WA 98109, USA
Seattle's autumn furry party takes to the water at Barktober 2026, aboard The Hiyu on Saturday 3 October. FetchNW brings DJs, dancing and social space to the boat, with a livelier main deck, a quieter upstairs music area and food from The Vulpine Taproom. Fursuits and costumes are welcome: spooky, fluffy or both.
Check-in opens at 16:00 at South Lake Union Park, 860 Terry Avenue N. Boarding begins at 17:00 and the boat departs at 18:00 sharp, returning at 22:00 for disembarkation by 22:30. Use this boarding point, not The Hiyu's usual docking address.
Tickets are currently sold out. This is a 21+ event requiring valid government-issued photo ID. Changing and luggage storage use a designated car lane; there is no coat check and seating is limited. The main-deck dance area will be livestreamed. Check the official page for ticket-transfer rules and entry conditions.
WERK, 3428 East Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, CA 90804, USA
Shake a tail at TAIL!, Long Beach's furry nightclub gathering at WERK. The October night brings the local furry crowd together from 8pm, with dancing, live DJs and karaoke among the event's regular attractions. Fursuits and other furry gear are welcome, and the night is open to the wider pup and alternative club community too.
Entry is $5, payable by cash or card, and this is a 21+ event with an ID check. The bar's advertised hours run until 2am the following morning, and water is free. Follow the official announcements channel for the latest parking map and changes. This listing uses the announced 2 October date rather than extending an older repeat schedule into unannounced months.
Up-Down Arcade Bar, 3012 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408, USA
Join Minnesota Furs at Up-Down Minneapolis for an evening of arcade games, pizza and catching up with the local furry community. The venue has more than 50 games from the 1980s and 1990s, pinball, skee-ball, Nintendo 64 gaming, giant Jenga and Connect Four, with Killer Queen on hand for anyone feeling competitive. This is the weekend edition; the venue can become busy as the night goes on.
The October gathering runs from 7pm to 11pm and is strictly 21+. Bring photo ID for the door, RSVP through MNFurs and leave your fursuit at home. Games cost $0.25 each, with machine tokens available at the venue; food and drinks are extra.
North Park Lodge, North Park Lodge, North Ridge Drive, Allison Park, PA 15101, United States, Allison Park, US
Western PA Furry Weekend (WPAFW) is a 21+ furry convention held at North Park Lodge in Allison Park, Pennsylvania. Running from October 2 to 4, 2026, this long-running event brings together a close-knit community of around 600 attendees for a weekend focused on charity and connection. It is a deliberate departure from the standard hotel convention model, utilizing a lodge setting to create a relaxed, mature atmosphere where the social experience takes centre stage.
The event structure is unique because it skips the traditional Dealers Den and Artist Alley entirely. Instead, the financial focus shifts to a charity auction, which runs as a live comedy show on the final day. This approach has raised over $70,000 for local animal rescues since 2005, with the 2026 partner being Joey's PAW, a nonprofit providing custom wheelchairs and prosthetics for dogs. You also get a single Featured Artist program, with Mythic from Cleveland creating custom work for sponsors this year.
Registration covers all your meals for the weekend, including Friday through Sunday dinners and desserts, plus access to the Tilted Tavern pop-up bar. Since the lodge has no attached hotel rooms, attendees book stays in the surrounding Pittsburgh suburbs and drive into the park each day. A shuttle service runs between hotels and the venue to keep everyone safe. It is a practical, all-inclusive setup that lets you focus on the fun and the fundraising.
Mall of America®, 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, USA
Take a casual walk around Mall of America with Minnesota Furs, starting outside Barnes & Noble on the first floor. The group works its way around the mall's floors before finishing in the food court, giving Twin Cities furs time to chat as they go. This edition is the Thursday evening walk on 1 October.
The meet runs from 5.45pm to 8pm and is free to attend. If you stay for dinner, budget around $7–15 for food, and RSVP on the MNFurs site so the group knows you are joining. Leave full suits and fursuit heads at home: the mall prohibits full-body suits and full-face coverings, although ears, tails and handpaws are permitted.
Embassy Suites & Convention Center, 1001 E McCarty Ln, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA, San Marcos, US
Alamo City Furry Invasion (ACFI) is a four-day furry convention running from October 1 to October 5, 2026, in San Marcos, Texas. This year's gathering embraces the 'ACFI 500' racing theme, bringing a high-energy vibe to the local community. The event has moved to the Embassy Suites & Convention Center, a venue that offers significantly more space than previous years. With 42,000 square feet of meeting area, the layout allows for a comfortable flow between panels, dealer halls, and social areas without the usual crush of a packed floor.
The all-suite hotel format is a practical win for attendees, as room blocks include complimentary cooked-to-order breakfasts and evening receptions. This setup helps manage the daily grind of convention life, ensuring you have easy access to food and rest between events. The programming includes a mix of standard panels and unique community traditions, such as the 'Tavern' area which references the 6-2-1 survival rule for sleep, meals, and hygiene. It is a well-organized space that respects the need for downtime while keeping the social energy high.
Charity remains a core part of the event, with BeePawsitive Husky Rescue continuing as the partner organization. Past editions have raised substantial funds for the rescue, proving that the community here is dedicated to giving back. Whether you are a long-time regular or a first-timer, the scale and structure of ACFI make it a solid choice for a Texas furry meet. The location on the I-35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio also makes travel straightforward for those coming from further afield.
Hickory Metro Convention Center, 1960 13th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC 28602, USA, Hickory, US
Carolina Furfare (CFF) is a furry convention running from 1 October to 5 October 2026 at the Hickory Metro Convention Center in Hickory, North Carolina. This year's theme is Cryptid Catastrophe, so expect the venue to feel like a forest full of local legends. You can join as a brave researcher hunting for evidence or just enjoy the vibe while the moon is full. It is a SFW event run by the North Carolina Anthropomorphic Society, making it the family-friendly sibling to the R-rated Bewhiskered con.
The community here is known for being generous and welcoming. Last year, the group raised over $10,000 for Rescue Tails Animal Sanctuary, which shows how much this crew cares about giving back. The event has grown from its Blue Ridge roots into a solid regional anchor for the Carolinas. You will likely meet Aster and Petal, the squirrel and opossum mascots that capture the local Southern character. It is a great spot to meet new friends without worrying about explicit content.
Hickory is easy to reach if you drive. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about 60 miles away, and you can get there via I-40. There is no direct public transit, so plan on a rental car or rideshare. Several hotels are within walking distance of the convention center, including the Hampton Inn and Courtyard by Marriott. It is a practical, comfortable weekend for anyone looking to explore the furry scene in the state.
Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel, 5700 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, Grand Rapids, US
Michigan Anthro Weekend is the inaugural 18+ furry convention taking place in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from 1 to 4 October 2026. Hosted entirely within the Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel, the event is organised by Western Michigan Anthropomorphic Events, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. The convention is designed for an adult audience, offering a focused community experience that includes late-night programming, social lounges, and DJ sets. The venue is located adjacent to Gerald R. Ford International Airport, providing attendees with free on-site parking and a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal.
The programme features a fursuit dance competition, tabletop adventures, video game tournaments, and a formal charity ball. The Guest of Honour is Little Alpha Pup, also known as Milo, a content creator and singer/songwriter recognised for his mental health advocacy and musical performances. The event emphasises creative expression and social connection, with spaces dedicated to artists, makers, and performers. An accommodation request form is available for attendees who require specific accessibility support during the convention.
Registration is handled through the ConCat platform, with weekend memberships starting at $60 for early pricing and $70 for standard rates. Sponsor tiers begin at $100 and include additional perks such as a unique lanyard, admission to the Formal Charity Ball, and early access to the Dealers Den. Day passes are available for purchase on-site only, with prices ranging from $30 to $45 depending on the day. The event aims to provide a self-contained weekend experience for locals and visitors alike, fostering a supportive environment for the furry community in Michigan.
Fontana Village Resort & Marina, 180 Welch Road, Fontana Dam, NC 28733, United States, Fontana Dam, US
Furry Takeover is a smaller, rustic furry convention taking over the Fontana Village Resort & Marina in Fontana Dam, North Carolina. Running from September 25 to 28, 2026, this event swaps standard hotel lobbies for cabins, campsites, and lodge rooms deep in the Great Smoky Mountains. The 2026 edition features a Space Cadets theme, blending sci-fi vibes with the natural beauty of the area. It is designed for those who want a genuine escape from the city, with limited cell service adding to the off-grid atmosphere.
The venue is a full resort takeover, meaning you are sharing the space with fellow furries rather than a general public. Activities focus on outdoor relaxation and community bonding. Expect bonfires, minigolf, movie nights, and plenty of space to fursuit or just hang out. The setting is scenic and quiet, perfect for unwinding. Since the resort is remote, you will need to plan your travel carefully. A personal vehicle is essential, as there is no public transit to this part of western North Carolina.
Practical details matter here. Government-issued photo ID is required for every attendee, regardless of age, with a minimum age of 13. Lodging is booked separately through the resort, so secure your cabin or campsite early. Bring cash for transactions, as network outages are common in the mountains. This is a chance to disconnect, recharge, and enjoy the company of the furry community in a unique, mountainous setting.
Cleveland State University Student Center, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA, Cleveland, US
Furrest City (FCFC) is a two-day furry convention taking place in Cleveland, Ohio, from September 19 to 21, 2026. It marks the city's first multi-day furry event in roughly three decades, filling a gap that has existed since the 1990s. The event is hosted at the Cleveland State University Student Center, a downtown venue that is easily reachable by public transit. This location is a deliberate choice, as the organizing team started in 2024 to create accessible events for the local community. You do not need a car to get around, which keeps things simple and low stress for everyone attending.
The group behind the convention is a local 501(c)(3) non-profit that grew out of smaller community meetups. They focus on running fun and accessible activities, ranging from fur walks to game nights. The name Furrest City is a playful nod to Cleveland's historic nickname, the Forest City. This local identity runs through the whole event, with mascots and programming that reflect the city's character. It is a ground-up, community-built con that feels very much of its place, rather than a generic corporate affair.
As the inaugural edition, many details like the specific theme and guest lineup are still being finalized. You should keep an eye on their official channels for updates. The vibe is warm and welcoming, designed to connect the local furry community while celebrating the city itself. It is a chance to be part of a convention from its very first year, helping to build something new in the region. The atmosphere is expected to be comfortable and inclusive, with a focus on community connection and shared enjoyment.
Ontario Convention Center, 2000 E Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764, USA, Ontario, US
Anthro SoCal (ASC) is an annual furry convention held at the Ontario Convention Center in Ontario, California, running from September 18 to 20, 2026. Organised by F.U.R.E.A.L., the event serves as a key gathering point for the Southern California furry community, bringing together artists, cosplayers, and enthusiasts for a weekend focused on friendship and community. The 2026 edition, themed 'Beast Brawl: Primal Fury', features guests of honour Gale Frostbane, Juno and Maxx, and SonicFox, recognising their contributions to the scene.
The convention occupies the entire Ontario Convention Center, providing over 250,000 square feet of space for panels, vendor halls, and social activities. The venue is fully ADA compliant, with an Accessibility Desk offering resources such as earplugs and communication aids, and an accessible entry lane for registration. The facility is cashless, accepting only card and mobile payments, and offers parking with EV charging capabilities. Attendees can access a variety of on-site food options, including gourmet concessions and coffee stations.
Registration is open for all ages, with specific policies for minors: those under 18 require a Minor Consent Form, and those under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless a notarised Assignment of Responsibility form is provided. The event offers multiple registration tiers, including a limited Benefactor tier that provides priority hotel booking access. Partner hotels within walking distance offer discounted rates for registered attendees, with a shuttle service available between the convention center and farther locations. A portion of sponsor and benefactor fees supports F.U.R.E.A.L., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organisation.
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, 1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA, Minneapolis, US
Furry Migration (FM) is an annual furry convention held in Minneapolis, running from September 11 to 14, 2026. It takes place at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, a venue that has been pre-booked through 2029, ensuring stability for the community. As the state's largest furry event, it draws a crowd of over two thousand attendees who come for a mix of programming, socializing, and the specific energy of a well-run mid-sized con.
The 2026 theme is Be Kind, Rewind, a nod to 90s VHS nostalgia that sets a playful tone for the weekend. You will find Iron Pen and Iron Artist competitions, fursuit dance battles, and professional studio photography sessions. The venue is fully cashless, so bring your cards or mobile payment methods. There is also a designated Quiet Space in the Hennepin room, managed in partnership with MNeurodivergent, which is a thoughtful touch for those who need a break from the noise.
Minneapolis in September offers mild weather, making it a good time for outdoor suiting if you want to step outside. The hotel sits on Nicollet Mall, giving you easy access to dining and the city's skyway system. It is a practical, comfortable stop for anyone looking to join the Minnesota furry scene without the chaos of a massive mega-con.
Crowne Plaza Albuquerque, 1901 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA, Albuquerque, US
Anthro New Mexico (ANM) is the inaugural furry convention in New Mexico, scheduled for 4–6 September 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque. Organised by the ABQ Fursuit Group, the event features a 'Haunted Mansion' theme that permeates the venue's atmosphere and programming. The convention offers a variety of attendee-facing activities, including a Dealer's Den, DJ applications, a variety show, and opportunities to host panels. Guests of honour for the 2026 edition are Kyell Gold, a furry author known for his work with Sofawolf Press, and Rukis, an artist and author based in New Mexico.
Charity is a central pillar of the event, with ANM partnering with Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to rescuing and caring for wolves and wolfdogs. The convention also supports the 'Save Indigo Mountain' campaign to aid another sanctuary in Colorado. ANM has established a partnership with Wuellas FurFest (WUFF), a Chilean convention, to foster international collaboration and cultural exchange within the furry community.
Registration is open via the official Regfox page, with early bird pricing available for the first 100 registrants, who are also entered into a raffle for exclusive artwork by dokiwolf. The event is open to all ages, though an 18+ Dealers Den is available for adult-oriented content. Hotel blocks are available for attendees, and the convention aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for the local and visiting furry community.
Renaissance Tulsa Hotel & Convention Center, 6808 S 107th E Ave, Tulsa, OK 74133, USA, Tulsa, US
Tails and Tornadoes Fur Con (TTFC) is a mid-sized furry convention held at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel & Convention Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, from 4 to 6 September 2026. Founded in 2019, the event is organised by the nonprofit T.A.C.O. and features a programme of panels, a dance competition, an artists alley, and a dealers den. The 2026 edition adopts the theme “Dinos, Drives, and Fluffy Vibes,” a retro-dinosaur motif that celebrates the centenary of Route 66 and the local history of the Mother Road. Rick Griffin, a writer, cartoonist, and illustrator, is the confirmed guest of honour for this year’s event.
The convention is primarily an 18+ event, though it maintains a structured policy for minors. Children aged 15 and under may attend for a reduced fee of $5, while those aged 5 and under attend for free; both groups must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. The venue offers free parking for convention guests, and the hotel room block includes access to an indoor pool and fitness centre. TTFC continues its long-standing partnership with the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), a local nonprofit focused on animal welfare, which serves as the official charity for the 2026 event.
In the previous edition (2025), the convention recorded 1,557 attendees and 382 fursuiters, raising $9,095 for ARF. For 2026, pre-registration has closed, and attendees must register in-person at the convention. The event maintains a welcoming atmosphere with dedicated family and teen events, a quiet room for attendees needing a break, and a fursuit lounge. The combination of artistic programming, community charity work, and the specific Route 66-themed focus distinguishes TTFC as a significant gathering for the furry community in the Midwest.
Newport News Marriott at City Center, 740 Town Center Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, USA, Newport News, US
FursonaCon is an all-ages furry convention held annually in Newport News, Virginia, welcoming attendees of all backgrounds to a weekend of creativity and community. The 2026 edition, scheduled for September 3 to 6, 2026, adopts the theme 'Murder on the FursonaCon Express,' transforming the event into an immersive narrative experience. Attendees are invited to step into the role of passengers on a luxurious 1900s train journey, where the schedule and atmosphere are built around a mystery storyline that encourages interactive participation and deep immersion beyond standard convention programming.
Hosted at the Newport News Marriott at City Center, the convention features a robust lineup of attendee-facing activities designed to foster engagement without excessive queuing. Key programming includes two fursuit parades, a fursuit dance competition, and fursuit games, all held in the Main Events Hall. The event also supports local creators through a jury-reviewed Dealers Den and an Artists' Alley, offering handmade goods and live artistry. FursonaCon maintains a strong focus on safety and accessibility, with specific provisions for minors, including parental consent requirements and age-restricted late-night panels to ensure a comfortable environment for families.
Charity is a central pillar of the convention's identity, with FursonaCon partnering with 2nd Chance Wildlife Rehabilitation for over five years. The organization, based in Virginia Beach, rescues and rehabilitates injured native wildlife, and FursonaCon supports this mission through charity auctions, donation drives, and attendee contributions. Past events have raised thousands of dollars for the cause, reflecting the community's commitment to compassion and local environmental stewardship. The convention emphasizes a respectful and inclusive atmosphere, providing resources such as pre-boarding tips and packing lists to help first-time attendees navigate the event with ease.
