Scotiacon

Scotiacon is Scotland's only dedicated furry convention, held annually at the Crowne Plaza Glasgow. Attendance grew from 1,170 in 2024 to 1,681 in 2025, with the convention raising over £22,500 and £16,000 for charity in those respective years. The event uses a registration lottery system and randomized badge numbers rather than a first-come-first-served model.

The Scottish Experience & Registration

The convention operates out of the Crowne Plaza Glasgow, offering a cozy yet accessible city setting on the edge of the River Clyde.

Because the venue size creates an intimate, sought-after environment, Scotiacon uses a Registration Lottery System. This eliminates the stress of a traditional "registration rush," giving every interested attendee an equal chance at securing a ticket. In 2026, the convention also introduced randomized badge numbers, removing the rush for low-number status and keeping the focus on community well-being. This approach is reinforced by a dedicated Welfare Team, a specialized group distinct from security, focused specifically on the emotional and physical safety of the attendee base.

2026 Theme: Howl at High Noon

The February 6-9, 2026 edition embraces the "Howl at High Noon" theme, bringing frontier energy to the Scottish setting.

A hallmark of Scotiacon is how the team localizes broad themes. Rather than a generic Western aesthetic, the convention interprets the Old West through a distinctly Scottish lens, framing the weekend as a quest for "Irn Bru" across the prairie. This localized, self-aware humor is central to the Scotiacon identity.

How Do I Get to Scotiacon?

Glasgow is well connected, making the journey to Scotiacon smooth:

• Flying in: Glasgow Airport (GLA) is a strong international hub. From the terminal, the First Glasgow Airport Express bus (Route 500) reaches the city center in under 15 minutes. Alternatively, Edinburgh Airport (EDI) connects to Glasgow's Buchanan Bus Station via Citylink bus.
• By Train: Glasgow Central and Glasgow Queen Street stations connect to the rest of the UK. From either station, the venue is a quick, affordable taxi ride, or a walk along the Clyde if the weather cooperates.
• The Local Metro: The Glasgow Subway (known locally as the "Clockwork Orange") is a simple, efficient way to navigate the wider city.

Where Should I Stay for Scotiacon?

The hotel situation is well organized for full immersion:

• Main Venue (Crowne Plaza Glasgow): The center of the convention. Securing a room in the main block puts you steps away from late-night panels, the Dealers' Den, and the traditional Scottish Ceilidh social dances.
• The Hilton Garden Inn Backup: Because the Crowne Plaza fills quickly, Scotiacon partners with the Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre for overflow, keeping the community close together along the riverfront corridor.

What Are the Highlights of Scotiacon?

• Scotland's Only Furry Convention: The sole dedicated furry gathering in Scotland.
• Howl at High Noon: A Scottish interpretation of the Old West running through the February 2026 dates.
• Fair Registration System: A lottery and randomized badge numbers keep pre-con stress low.
• Dedicated Welfare Focus: A trained Welfare Team ensures the environment remains safe and welcoming for all attendees.