ArmadilloCon 2026

ArmadilloCon returns to the Holiday Inn Austin Midtown from September 11 to 13, 2026. It's one of Austin's longest-running community events, an independent, fan-run convention celebrating science fiction, fantasy, horror, and other 'Weird' stories and art. It's been running since 1979, which makes it one of the longest-running of its kind in the country. The whole thing is put on by F.A.C.T. (Fans, Artists, Creators, Technicians), the group of fans who work on the convention year-round.

Over three days, there are more than 100 events to choose from. The schedule includes interviews, panel discussions, readings, scheduled gaming, signings, maker sessions, the Meet the Pros Party, the legendary Bar Con, a screenwriting workshop, an art show, and a dealers' room. This year's guests of honor are writer Micaiah Johnson and cyberpunk writer Bruce Sterling. It's an all-ages affair, and memberships are available online.

The venue is the Holiday Inn Austin Midtown at 6000 Middle Fiskville Rd, an Austin classic that was a Hilton when the convention was last held there. It's entirely smoke-free with free parking, wifi, and a pool, though accessible rooms are limited.

Programming runs Friday from 4 PM to 11 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 11 PM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. If you're looking to get some writing in, the ArmadilloCon Writers' Workshop runs separately on Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM.