The World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) is an annual international gathering of science fiction and fantasy fans, writers, artists, musicians, and creators. First held in New York City in 1939, Worldcon visits a new city around the globe each year and is organised by a different group of dedicated volunteers who participate in a bidding process that is open to any group that meets a small number of technical regulations.
The longest running Science Fiction convention in the world, Worldcon originally focused on only Science Fiction and Fantasy. While both remain important, Worldcon continues to grow with each year of its celebration; now including genre television, films, animation, role-playing and table-top gaming, video games and other popular media as well. Since the mid-1970s, Worldcons have had an average attendance of 4,000-5,000 fans, with more or less depending on the host city.
Worldcons technically only have three essential required events to be considered a Worldcon. These are:
- administering the Hugo Awards,
- administering future Worldcon site selection, and
- holding a World Science Fiction Society Business Meeting.
However, each Worldcon offers far more than that, always trying to find the best ways to celebrate the wonderful world of SFF! Worldcons have developed many traditions over the years that can be enjoyed by all who attend. These include, but are not limited to:
- Hugo Awards Ceremony
- The Masquerade
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies
- Signings and Readings
- Art show and auction
- Exhibits and Dealer’s rooms
- Guest of Honour events
- Children’s activities
- Multiple tracks of programming ranging from Gaming to Science, TV/Film to Literature, Academic papers to roundtable debates
- Parties galore for launches, future Worldcons and amongst the fans themselves
- And so much more…
We are excited to welcome the 82nd Worldcon to Glasgow in August 2024. Glasgow is a vibrant city filled with science fiction, fantasy and inventiveness. Our Convention team aims to bring the love of these to the forefront as we welcome the global fan community to our dear green place.
Under its previous name as the SECC, Glasgow has hosted two previous Worldcons: Intersection in 1995, and Interaction in 2005. We are delighted to be able to revisit the SEC Campus, which has seen considerable growth in the last few years, including new onsite hotels, restaurants and development inside the convention centre itself.
Glasgow and the SEC Campus will serve as a hub for a fantastic Worldcon where creativity, diversity and inclusivity will be brought to the forefront.
Join us as we bring all our futures together in one great celebration!