PAWCon

PAWCon is a furry convention held at the DoubleTree San Jose in San Jose, California, running from November 6 to 9, 2026. This year's theme is Experiments Gone Fuzzy, which sets a playful tone for the whole weekend. The event is designed as a relax-a-con, meaning the focus is on low-stress socializing rather than a packed schedule of panels. You can expect a comfortable environment where you can hang out in the lobby, attend room parties, or just chill in your hotel room without the pressure of a high-energy con. The venue is well-connected for Bay Area travelers, with easy access via Highway 101 and nearby light rail options, making it a convenient anchor for the Northern California community.

The programming leans into the mad-science theme with tier names like Lab Rat and Mad Scientist, adding a bit of character to the registration process. One of the standout features is the Party Floor, a shared-balcony layout where 21+ themed parties run in parallel. For 2026, the convention has extended this party floor to Sunday night, giving you an extra evening to unwind. There is also a Saturday-night adult-vendor window called UnderPAW, which operates in the Shopping District for those interested in that side of the fandom. The event has grown steadily over the years, with recent attendance figures around 1,700, so it feels like a solid mid-sized community gathering.

If you are looking for a comfortable, social weekend in the Bay Area, PAWCon fits the bill nicely. The convention rate for hotel rooms is available, and staying on-site is recommended to make the most of the relax-a-con vibe. You can move between late-night hangouts and your bed without dealing with traffic. The charity partner for 2026 is WRAP, a local rescue organization, which adds a nice community-focused element to the event. Overall, it is a well-organized con that balances fun, socializing, and a bit of playful experimentation.