Ainmhícon

As a first-year event, Ainmhícon represents a critical milestone for the Irish community. The convention will focus on establishing community norms and building a local furry identity distinct from the broader UK scene.

About Ainmhícon

Ainmhícon (pronounced "An-Vee-Con") is an exciting new addition to the European furry convention calendar and stands as Ireland's first major dedicated furry event. Organized by Ainmhícon CLG, the convention represents a historic milestone for the Irish furry community, which has previously had to travel to the UK or mainland Europe for major gatherings. The event aims to be an easily accessible hub for furries not just from Ireland, but from across Europe and the globe.

The name "Ainmhícon" is a clever portmanteau derived from "ainmhí," the Irish language word for "animal," and "con," short for convention, grounding the event deeply in its local culture and identity.

History and Origins

Planning for Ainmhícon began in earnest in 2025. While the inaugural event was originally slated for April 2027, the organizers successfully moved the timeline forward, announcing that the first convention would take place on April 11-12, 2026. This acceleration highlights the strong demand and enthusiasm within the local community for a home-grown event. The official website launched in March 2025, signaling the start of a new era for Irish fandom.

The Mascots

The spirit of the convention is embodied by its two mascots, Craic and Ceol. Their names are a nod to the famous Irish phrase "craic agus ceol," which translates to "fun and music," promising a lively and entertaining atmosphere for all attendees.

Venue & Getting There

The convention will be hosted at the Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley in Dublin. This modern venue offers excellent facilities and serves as the perfect launchpad for the first iteration of the con.

Flying

Dublin Airport (DUB) is Ireland's main international gateway and offers extensive connections:

• International Access: Direct flights are available from most major European cities and numerous North American hubs.
• Transfers: The airport is well-connected to the city and the venue via bus services and taxis.

From the UK and Europe

For those preferring not to fly, Ireland is accessible via ferry:

• Ferry Services: Regular sailings connect Dublin Port to Holyhead and Liverpool in the UK.
• Rail & Sail: Combined train and ferry tickets can often be a cost-effective way to travel from Britain.

Highlights

• Historic Debut: Be part of the very first major Irish furry convention.
• Cultural Identity: A unique event that celebrates Irish culture and the Irish language through its potential themes and atmosphere.
• Community Focus: Aims to build a distinct local identity, separate from the broader UK scene, fostering a tight-knit community feel.
• Accessibility: Located in Dublin, making it easy for international travelers to attend and explore the historic city.