Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

San Jose, CA

North America

United States

# BayCon - Bay Area SciFi & Fantasy Convention Overview
BayCon, located in San Jose, CA, is a prominent science fiction and fantasy convention that has captivated fans since its inception. Known for its diverse programming and vibrant community, BayCon offers a unique blend of panels, discussions, and social events that cater to a wide range of interests within the sci-fi and fantasy genres. The convention has a rich history of fostering creativity and collaboration among attendees, making it a staple in the Bay Area's cultural landscape. Review highlights often mention the engaging panels and lively parties, though some attendees express concerns about the convention's focus and target audience.

## History
### The story of BayCon
BayCon was founded with a vision to create a welcoming space for science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts to gather, share ideas, and celebrate their passions. The convention aims to provide a platform for both fans and creators, fostering a community where creativity can thrive.

### Milestones and growth
- Established in the early 1980s, BayCon has grown significantly over the decades.
- Transitioned from smaller venues to larger hotels to accommodate increasing attendance.
- Expanded programming to include a wider variety of panels, workshops, and social events.
- Developed a reputation for hosting notable authors and industry professionals.

### Cultural and local influence
BayCon has played a crucial role in shaping the science fiction and fantasy culture in the Bay Area. It has become a gathering point for local creators, writers, and fans, contributing to the region's reputation as a hub for speculative fiction. The convention also supports local artists and vendors, providing them with a platform to showcase their work.

### Continuing the tradition
As BayCon continues to evolve, it remains committed to its founding principles of inclusivity and creativity. The convention adapts its programming to reflect the changing interests of its attendees while maintaining a focus on community engagement and collaboration.

## Community
### Community involvement
BayCon thrives on community involvement, encouraging attendees to participate actively in shaping the convention experience. Volunteers play a vital role in organizing events, managing panels, and ensuring that the convention runs smoothly. This spirit of collaboration fosters a sense of belonging among attendees, making BayCon more than just a convention.

### Community notion about the place
Attendees often describe BayCon as a friendly and welcoming environment where fans can connect over shared interests. However, some reviews indicate a growing concern about the convention's identity and focus, suggesting that it may not fully cater to the diverse needs of its audience.

### Events and gatherings
BayCon hosts a variety of events throughout the convention, including panel discussions, workshops, and social gatherings. These events provide opportunities for attendees to engage with industry professionals, learn new skills, and network with fellow fans. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by evening parties, where attendees can unwind and socialize in a relaxed setting.

## Offerings
### What BayCon offers
BayCon offers a rich array of programming designed to appeal to a wide spectrum of interests within the sci-fi and fantasy communities. From panels featuring industry experts to hands-on workshops, there is something for everyone at the convention. The diverse offerings encourage creativity and collaboration among attendees.

### Dining and food experience
While specific dining options may vary by year, BayCon typically provides access to various food vendors and nearby restaurants. Attendees can enjoy a range of culinary experiences, from casual dining to more formal options, ensuring that everyone finds something to satisfy their appetite during the event.

### Events and packages
BayCon features a variety of ticketing options, including day passes and full-weekend packages. These options allow attendees to customize their experience based on their interests and availability. The programming schedule is designed to maximize engagement, with multiple events occurring simultaneously throughout the convention.

### Facilities and features
- Spacious convention center for panels and workshops
- Dedicated areas for socializing and networking
- Vendor hall showcasing local artists and creators
- ConSuite offering snacks and refreshments to attendees

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of BayCon reveal a mix of positive experiences and constructive feedback. Many attendees appreciate the engaging programming and vibrant community, while others express concerns about the convention's identity and focus.

### Compliments and strengths
BayCon is often praised for its well-organized panels and the quality of discussions. The social atmosphere, particularly during evening parties, is highlighted as a major draw for attendees. The convention's commitment to inclusivity and community involvement is also frequently noted as a strength.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews indicate a disconnect between the convention's offerings and the expectations of attendees. Concerns about the lack of a clear focus and the diversity of programming have been raised, suggesting that BayCon may benefit from refining its identity to better serve its audience.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, BayCon remains a beloved convention within the sci-fi and fantasy community, offering a unique blend of programming and social opportunities. While there are areas for improvement, the convention's strengths in community engagement and diverse offerings continue to attract attendees.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
BayCon is held in San Jose, CA, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural diversity and technological innovation. The convention typically takes place in a centrally located venue, making it easily accessible for attendees. Nearby attractions include the Tech Museum of Innovation, the San Jose Museum of Art, and various dining options that reflect the city's multicultural influences. The convenient location allows attendees to explore the local area while enjoying the convention experience.

## FAQs
**What is BayCon** BayCon is a science fiction and fantasy convention held annually in San Jose, CA.
**When does BayCon take place** The convention typically occurs over the Memorial Day weekend each year.
**Who can attend BayCon** BayCon is open to anyone interested in science fiction and fantasy, regardless of age or background.
**What types of events are at BayCon** The convention features panels, workshops, social gatherings, and parties.
**Is there food available at BayCon** Yes, there are food vendors and nearby restaurants for attendees to enjoy.

## Visit BayCon Today
BayCon invites you to experience the excitement of the Bay Area SciFi & Fantasy Convention. With its rich history, diverse programming, and welcoming community, BayCon offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow fans and creators. Join us for engaging panels, lively social events, and a chance to immerse yourself in the world of science fiction and fantasy. Whether you're a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, BayCon promises an unforgettable experience.

f3ecaa26-1486-4fcc-99a7-7b74d079801f

Update 5/22/15: We decided not to attend BayCon this year. We reviewed the schedule, recognized none of the names, found the discussions to be unrelated to our expectations for a SciFi convention, and decided we wouldn't be continuing our trend of going. ************************************************ BayCon this year was fun and enjoyable but a bit of a let down. There were a few problems that I saw, some last year that were perpetuated and some this year I may just not have noticed last year since I only went for the day. I was especially excited this year as my writing has become more important to me and I wanted to attend several publishing and writing classes. The only problem is BayCon appears to not really be sure what to be. It's not a fan convention, because there's not enough cosplayers (they're all at Fanime), it's not a science convention (nobody has the credentials for that), it's not a gamer convention and it's certainly not a writer's convention but it tries to be all of these at once. There was one author on a panel that said, "we never put the genres together in writing groups." And I feel like this described exactly the mistake BayCon has made. BayCon doesn't currently have the focus it needs to bring together a solid packed weekend. Anyone can stick a day full of different things and have it be a really fun day. But after three days, the disjointed effect of having costumers with potential authors and science geeks with LARPers basically creates a watery three days where most of the classes are Fan lead discussions on a ton of unrelated topics. I'm fairly sure I'm not alone in being completely confused about what BayCon is really about. Or what kind of convention it is. Beyond the class issues the vast majority of it's attendees are now over 45 and not local. This means that many of them have rather serious expectations of treatment, mostly ending in loud discussions when their needs are not being met. I don't think I'm going to attend next year as I don't think I'm BayCon's target audience. But if I do attend I'll probably just stick to the Saturday day pass and leave any expectations at the door.

92407166-9b2d-408c-8932-c52eec82230a

Of all the science fiction conventions of various types that exist in the Bay Area, BayCon is the one that has the most impressive resume. There are bigger cons (Fanime as an example) and ones that draw bigger names, but none of them are as over-whelming entertaining and strange as BayCon. First off, the team that puts it on has it's ups and downs. Some folks have burned a lot of bridges and that sometimes colours the convention reaction of some. It's understandable. The programming and panels are well-done. The last few years have seen an explosion in the kinds of panels and topics covered, as well as an opening up of panelists that has made things better. While many cons seem to be getting older, there's a strong current of youth with BayCon. I'm sure the Party Scene doesn't hurt on that one. And the parties tend to be really fun. Any given night, you can expect three or four top-notch parties, plus people milling about in the halls and places like the ConSuite and the Fanzine Lounge. Booze flows, though you don't get too many drunken idiots around. The committee has chosen good hotels, specifically the DoubleTree for the first 25 years and the Hyatt from 2008 onward. The minor problems are there. Sometimes communication between staff and attendees isn't what it could be, but that happens. The problems that affect any convention get to BayCon as well, and they deal with it with speed and clarity most of the time.

Join BayCon in Santa Clara for an unforgettable sci-fi and fantasy experience. Discover exclusive events and vibrant community in the heart of Silicon Valley.

BayCon Santa Clara - SciFi & Fantasy Convention in Silicon Valley

Santa Clara County

BayCon - Bay Area SciFi & Fantasy Convention

California

Join the ultimate sci-fi and fantasy event at BayCon in San Jose, CA. Explore panels, cosplay, and exclusive merchandise. Book your tickets now!

BayCon - Bay Area SciFi & Fantasy Convention Experience in San Jose, CA

Learn about BayCon, the premier sci-fi and fantasy convention in San Jose, CA. Discover our history, mission, and what makes us the top event for fans. Join us!

About BayCon - Bay Area SciFi & Fantasy Convention in San Jose, CA

Opening hours for BayCon, San Jose, CA. Find out when BayCon is open for tickets, panels, and events at our venue in San Jose, CA.

BayCon Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at BayCon

Iraklis

Flying Idlis

Draes Lemonade