What Are The Top Steampunk Events In The US?

Experience the Best of Steampunk Culture at These Upcoming Festivals and Conventions Across America. The steampunk subculture is alive and well in the US, with major events happening across the country throughout the year. From small local meetups to giant convenions drawing tens of thousands, there are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the neo-Victorian retro-futurism of steampunk.

Here are the top steampunk events that you won’t want to miss!

Steampunk World’s Fair – Piscataway, New Jersey

The Steampunk World’s Fair is one of the largest steampunk conventions in the world. Held annually in Piscataway, New Jersey, it draws over 10,000 attendees from around the globe.

The event features steampunk vendors selling handcrafted goods, panel discussions led by authors and experts, live music and entertainment, a steampunk fashion show, tea dueling, and more.

It’s a must-visit for any serious steampunk fan.

Dates: May

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TeslaCon – Madison, Wisconsin

Billed as the “World’s Largest Immersive Steampunk Convention”, TeslaCon takes place at hotel and conference center in Madison, Wisconsin.

Guests are encouraged to remain in character throughout the 4-day event for a truly immersive experience. Enjoy panel talks, workshops, live entertainment, a masquerade ball, vendors, and more.

Dates: November

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Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention – Tucson, Arizona

This annual Arizona steampunk convention brings together fans from across the Southwest. Highlights include steampunk entertainment on multiple stages, panel discussions, workshops, a Friday night social mixer, Saturday masquerade ball, vendors, art cars, fashion shows, and more.

Dates: March

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SteamFest – Piscataway, New Jersey

SteamFest is New Jersey’s original, largest, and longest-running steampunk festival. The outdoor event features live music across four stages, entertainment, panel talks, steampunk vendors, arts & crafts, rides, food, and more. Costumes are encouraged!

Dates: September

Clockwork Alchemy – San Jose, California

This annual 4-day steampunk convention draws thousands to the San Francisco Bay Area. Guests enjoy a range of steampunk-themed activities including panel talks, workshops, teas, dances, entertainment, fashion shows, an exhibit hall packed with vendors selling art, jewelry, clothing, props and more.

Dates: May

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Dragon Con – Atlanta, Georgia

Dragon Con is one of the largest multi-genre conventions in the world, with over 80,000 attendees flocking to Atlanta each Labor Day weekend. It features a major steampunk presence, including panels, workshops, meetups, entertainment, vendors, and more. The Steampunk Ball is a highlight.

Dates: September

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Seattle Steamfest – Seattle, Washington

The Seattle Steamfest brings Pacific Northwest steampunks together for a weekend of cosplay, entertainment, panels, vendors, music, food & drink. Events take place at various venues around downtown Seattle. Attendees get deeply immersed in the local steampunk community.

Dates: July

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Steampunk Industrial Revolution – Nashua, New Hampshire

This first-ever steampunk event in New Hampshire promises to be spectacular. Guests will enjoy live music, entertainment, panel talks, workshops, vendors, exhibits, food & drink, and more. Organizers aim to bring NH’s steampunk community together for a weekend of creative fun.

Dates: June

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Great Steampunk Exposition – Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

This annual event held at a historic Civil War site has a fitting mix of steampunk and 19th century themes. Attractions include live music, entertainment, panel talks, tea dueling, vendors, exhibits, food trucks, costume contests, speakers, and more.

Dates: May

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Nova Albion Steampunk Exhibition – Alameda, California

This long-running Bay Area steampunk convention draws fans for a weekend of creative fun. Enjoy panel talks, workshops, teas, live music, entertainment, fashion shows, exhibits, vendors, art cars, costume contests, speakers, and more.

Dates: February

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Maker Faire Orlando – Orlando, Florida

While not exclusively steampunk, Maker Faire Orlando has a major steampunk presence and is a must-visit for Florida-based fans. Wander exhibits to see incredible steampunk creations, and enjoy live demos, entertainment, workshops, vendor booths, hands-on activities, and more.

Dates: March

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Consonance – San Antonio, Texas

Billing itself as “Texas’ Favorite Steampunk Convention”, Consonance takes place annually in San Antonio. The weekend includes panels, workshops, live music, bands, entertainment, vendors, exhibits, art cars, costuming classes, tea dueling, dances, and more for a full steampunk experience.

Dates: August

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Whimsical Weekend – Martinsburg, West Virginia

Nestled in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle region, Whimsical Weekend brings steampunk fans together from across the Mid-Atlantic. Guests enjoy live music, entertainment, panels, workshops, exhibits, vendors, tea dueling, dances, parades, costume contests, speakers and more.

Dates: September

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Steampunk Industrial Revolution – Nashua, New Hampshire

This first-ever New Hampshire steampunk convention will be an event to remember. The weekend will feature live entertainment, exhibits, vendors, workshops, panels, music, food & drink, and more. Organizers aim to unite NH’s steampunk community for a weekend of creative fun.

Dates: June

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The UnConvention – Online

For steampunk fans who can’t make it to events in person, The UnConvention offers a virtual experience online. Attendees can join panel talks, workshops, social mixers, entertainment, and vendor shopping through livestream video and chatrooms.

Dates: August

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Gamehole Con – Madison, Wisconsin

While covering all tabletop gaming genres, Wisconsin’s Gamehole Con has a major steampunk presence each year. Fans flock for steampunk costume contests, panel talks, vendors, music, entertainment, workshops, exhibits, and more. The event draws 15,000+ attendees.

Dates: November 1

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Those are the top steampunk events in the US . From small local gatherings to giant conventions, there are countless ways to explore the captivating world of steampunk this year with fellow fans.

Attending a major steampunk event lets you fully immerse yourself in neo-Victorian culture and creativity. You’ll meet makers, artists, performers and fans from around the world who share your passion.

Have you attended any of these steampunk conventions and festivals? Have we missed any? What are your tips for first-time attendees? Share your experiences in the comments below!