Painted Desert Fur Con (PDFC)

What Are the Highlights of Painted Desert Fur Con?

• The Southwest Season Opener: A 2,000+ attendee convention that serves as the opening event of the convention year.
• The Search for Cryptids: A creative, regionally themed 2026 edition suited for monstrous and eerie cosplay.
• The Winter Escape: Offering warm Arizona weather in the dead of January.
• Strong Phoenix Transit: Easy access via PHX Airport and the downtown Valley Metro Light Rail.

How Do I Get to Painted Desert Fur Con?

Phoenix is a well-connected transit hub:

• Flying: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is a major facility with frequent direct flights, particularly from cities looking to escape winter weather.
• The Valley Metro: A rental car is not necessary for PDFC. The affordable Valley Metro Light Rail connects to the PHX airport loop and drops attendees into the downtown convention grid.

Where Should I Stay for Painted Desert Fur Con?

PDFC prioritizes a centralized convention environment:

• The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown: Acting as the primary anchor, this hotel creates a self-contained convention hub. Late-night events, panels, and the Dealers Den are housed directly below the hotel towers, producing a dense, social atmosphere that runs around the clock.

Past Years

2025: Camping in the Canyon

PDFC 2025 saw strong growth with 1,412 attendees in Phoenix. The convention raised over $10,000 for Crystal's Critter Haven.

Plan Your Trip

Attending Painted Desert Fur Con? Check out our guides:

• First Convention Survival Guide
• Convention Budgeting Guide

Also in the Southwest:

• Las Vegas Fur Con
• Alamo City Furry Invasion