Flame Con Ignites 2026: World’s Largest Queer Comic Con Moves to the Marriott Marquis and Sets Ticket Sale Date
NEW YORK, NY, – February 18, 2026 –
Geeks OUT, the premier nonprofit dedicated to rallying and promoting the queer geek community, is thrilled to announce the return of Flame Con for 2026. This year, the world’s largest LGBTQ+ comic convention is leveling up with a move to a massive new venue and a jam-packed schedule of inclusive programming.
A New Home in the Heart of Broadway
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026. For the first time ever, Flame Con will be taking over the iconic Marriott Marquis New York, located at 1535 Broadway in the heart of Times Square. This move represents a significant expansion for the convention, providing even more space for the vibrant art, cosplay, and community that fans have come to love.
Tickets and Applications
Fans won’t have to wait long to secure their spot. Tickets for Flame Con 2026 go on sale February 19, 2026.
For those looking to get involved behind the scenes or showcase their work:
Volunteer Applications: Open in Mid-April.
Exhibitor Table Sales: Exact dates for March sales will be announced soon.
Juried Exhibitor Applications: Flame Con is adopting a partially juried model for 2026 to ensure a broad spectrum of perspectives and high-quality art from across the community.
Spotlight: Youth Day
Flame Con remains committed to fostering the next generation of queer geeks. Youth Day will be Sunday, August 16, and folks 21 and under can attend for free. The day will feature specialized, youth-oriented programming that is both family-friendly and empowering, ensuring a safe and celebratory space for younger fans to express their fandom.
From the Executive Team
When Flame Con moved to Manhattan in 2018, we dreamed our geeky pageantry would take the stage alongside Broadway’s legends and Times Square’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. The convention’s expansion to the iconic Marriott Marquis this year represents a dream come true. We are thrilled to spotlight the best of queer comics and pop culture for another year – right in the heart of New York City!
Celebrating Our Legacy and Our Future
Flame Con has a long history of hosting the brightest stars in the industry. Past guests and special appearances have included powerhouse creators such as Jen Bartel, Sina Grace, Kris Anka, James Tynion IV, Mariko Tamaki, ND Stevenson, and Phil Jimenez.
While our 2026 featured guest lineup is currently under wraps, attendees can expect another year of premier talent, insightful panels, and the return of fan-favorite events like the Fire Ball afterparty and the Camp Fire alternative social for those who prefer a more relaxed vibe.
Stay tuned for future announcements regarding our 2026 featured guests!
About Geeks OUT:
Geeks OUT is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that seeks to rally, promote, and empower the queer geek community. Since its inception, Flame Con has grown into the world’s largest queer comic convention, celebrating LGBTQ+ contributions to pop culture.