Any I missed? Fixes needed?
Write me at alan7388 (at) gmail.com
—Alan M., Polyamory in the News
With Covid less lethal, many events
have reopened. I'm updating
this list as you send me news.
—alan7388 (at) gmail.com
2024
May 10 – 13, 2024
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mt.
Storm,
WV
New Culture events, in my experience, always draw about 70% polyfolks and are super poly-friendly. This year "We're transforming New Culture Spring Camp into a long weekend 'getaway' focused on ease, relaxation, and intimacy. The May Getaway is for people who have been to at least one New Culture retreat, and for new folks who are sponsored by returning attendees. * Dance * Meditation * Nature Walks * ZEGG Forum * Emotional Healing * Conscious Touch * Cuddles * Loving Community * And much more! *" Details.
New Culture events are alcohol
and
drug
free and are Covid-cautious; for this one daily rapid (antigen) tests are required for two days beforehand and then on arrival.
May
17 – 20,
2024
Galliners,
Catalonia,
Spain
This
will
be
OpenCon
Catalonia's
eleventh
year.
It
runs
self-generated
unconference
style.
"IOCC
is
an
opportunity
to
get
together
in
a
friendly
environment
and
share
our
experiences,
our
questions,
the
lessons
we’ve
learned,
and
the
joys
we’ve
experienced
in
this
new
territory
of polyamory/non-monogamy/open
relationships.
We’ll
be
about
40
people,
and
the
basic
plan
is
to
combine
workshops
with
plenty
of
opportunities
for
relaxing
and
socialising.
Check
the what
will
happen page
to
get
an
idea
of
how
it
could
be,
and
don’t
forget
to
read
our Code
of
Conduct.
Meals
(breakfast,
lunch,
dinner)
will
be
provided
from
Friday
dinner
to
Monday
lunch." The
working
language
is
English.
Over
18
only
(infants
OK).
May
28 – June
2,
2024
Rittergut
Lützensömmern, Germany
The
German
organization
PolyAmores
Netzwerk
(PAN)
e.V.,
at Polyamory.de, runs
transregional
"Poly
Meetings"
for
German-speaking
polyfolks
in
Germany,
Switzerland
and
Austria.
The
organizers
say
the
gatherings
are
"a
platform
for
networking
and
for
the
exchange
of
experiences
and
practical
knowhow.
Also
theoretical
discussions
and
the
planning
of
cultural
and
political
activities.
The
programme
is
self
organized
by
the
participants."
Minimum
age
18.
In
past
years
the
meetings
have
sold
out
within
days
of
being
announced.
(Also
see Poly-Kalender of
local
and
regional
German-speaking
events.)
● Colorado
Poly
Weekend
Retreat –
Summer
July
4 –
8,
2024
Breckenridge,
CO
This
gathering
has
recently
been
held
twice
a
year,
in
winter
and
summer. "Relaxing
vacation
time
with
poly
friends.
The
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
is
a
long
weekend
retreat
hosted
in
a
beautiful
mountain
lodge
with
all
meals
provided.
The
retreat
is
for
polyamorous
people
and
people
in
poly-relationships
to
hang
out
together
in
a
poly-normative,
accepting
environment.
The
weekend
goes
from
Thursday
afternoon
to
Monday
morning
and
is
held
in
the
beautiful
Rocky
Mountains
in
Colorado.
Come
relax,
make
new
friends,
and
enjoy
the
beauty
of
the
Rockies!"
July 5 – 7, 2024 Alborache, València, Spain
"Un fin de semana de convivencia, debates, talleres y actividades lúdicas. Una oportunidad de conocer gente con ideas y actitudes abiertas en torno a las relaciones afectivas.
"Este encuentro anual se lleva a cabo cada verano, en el mes de junio o julio, en un albergue en plena naturaleza. Constituye un espacio donde compartir experiencias e inquietudes sobre modelos de vínculos entre las personas, desde una perspectiva feminista, solidaria y basada en el respeto. El contenido de la OpenCon lo proporcionan las personas asistentes, por lo que cada convocatoria es una sorpresa y una experiencia única."
July 12 – 21,
2024
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mount
Storm,
WV
I've
attended
this
interesting,
powerful,
ten-day
event
for
many
years.
Network
for
a
New
Culture
explores
building
intimate
community
through
practices
of
curiosity,
transparency,
self-exploration,
and
self-responsibility.
The
days
are
structured
around ZEGG
Forum,
various
self-improvement
and
human-potential
presenters
visiting
to
offer
their
stuff,
and
sharing
life,
work,
and
play
in
the
West
Virginia
mountain
woods.
“While
not
exclusively
a
poly
event,”
says
co-founder
Michael
Rios,
“Summer
Camp
East
is
about
70%
polyfolk,
and
100%
poly-friendly.” Here
are
my impressions from
my
first
year.
Here's a
bit
more from
my
fourth
(last
two
paragraphs).
From
the
description:
"A 10-day
experimental
community
for
emotional
intimacy,
radical
love,
and
global
change. Experience
what
we’ve
learned
in
our
25
years
of
exploration
–
the
compassion,
communication,
and
intimate
connection
that
make
a
new
world
possible.
Connect
in
the
ways
you’ve
always
wanted,
learn
skills
to
transform
your
daily
life,
and
dive
into
the
challenges
of
creating
a
world
that
works
for
all
beings."
About
60
or
70
people
usually
attend.
Vegetarian
and
vegan
group
meals;
cabins
and
campsites
in
the
woods
(no
vehicle
hookups);
bathhouse
with
sinks
and
hot
showers.
Conditions
are
mostly
rustic,
but
some indoor
accommodations
are
available
onsite
(priority
goes
to
those
with
special
needs),
and a
camp-owned
motel
is
3
miles
away.
Inquire
whether
there's
a
kids'
program
this
year.
A
beautiful,
and
accurate, promo
video (I'm
in
it!). Another camper
speaks.
Covid
protocols
are
serious,
with
emphasis
on
repeated
testing.
In
2022
and
2023
these
included
proof
of
Covid
vaccination
or
recent
infection
(recovered),
six
daily
rapid
antigen
tests
before
and
during
camp,
and
other
measures.
I
was
there
both
years;
not
one
positive
Covid
test
showed
up
in
some
520
total
rapid
tests
conducted
and
checked
onsite,
nor
was
anyone
symptomatic,
nor
was
there
any
reported
case
post-camp.
And
IMO,
both
were
among
the
best
Summer
Camps
I've
been
to.
July
15 – 21,
2024
US
and
worldwide
OPEN,
the
Organization
for
Polyamory
and
Ethical
Non-monogamy,
launched
the
first Day
of
Visibility
for
Non-Monogamy
in
2023.
Signing
on
were
40
organizations
spanning poly
to
RA
to
swinging that put on at
least
19
local
public
events.
OPEN
ran
a
publicity campaign
beforehand
and
offered
a
panoply
of
graphics,
text,
and
other
resources
to
help
users
spread
the
word.
See
my article
on
the
project
and
its
background.
Afterward,
feedback
from
the
member
groups
revealed
a
clear
wish
for
a
Week
of
Visibility
rather
than
one
designated
day.
So
for
2024,
OPEN
has
scheduled
a
Week of
Visibility
for
Non-Monogamy
for
July
15
through
21.
They
plan
to
make
it
permanently in the
third
week
in
July.
Planning
for
2024 is under way. Join
the
Week
of
Visibility
Planning
page
on
OPEN's
Discord
server
to
keep
up
with
what's
going
on,
coordinate
with
other
people,
and/or
get
help
setting
up
your
own
local
event.
Sign up for OPEN's
email
list
to
keep
up
with developments,
and join the
discussions
on their
Discord
server.
● Minnesota PolyCon
July 20, 2024St. Louis Park, MN (next to Minneapolis)
In 2018 this new one-day event drew 86 people, and 2019 "was a big success with an attendance of 171," wrote MNPoly organizer Randy Frehse. For 2020 he wrote "We are hoping for 200 - 250," but it was cancelled by the pandemic. Ditto 2021. But the con was back in 2022 and 2023, recovering with financial aid from The Polyamory Foundation. It has a new venue for 2024.
Sessions have included sex positivity & consent, anatomy of arousal, solo poly, polyamory & mental health, poly & parenting, poly & religion, deconstructing jealousy, being out & poly, and fundamentals of good communication in your polycule. Organized and run by the 1500-member MNPoly Meetup group.
August 9 – 11, 2024Ottawa, Ontario
After running for several years Polywood Camp was cancelled for Covid in 2020, a version was held online in 2021, then was cancelled for 2022. In 2023 it was back at a new location, a woodsy campground in Ottawa. It's there again in 2024.
"A kid-friendly poly camping weekend. Join us at Polywood this year to laugh, learn, and community build under the stars. Meet fellow like-minded poly people around the large communal bonfire; take part in various relationship building and strengthening discussions; share your poly knowledge and experiences over wine and cheese. We have limited scholarship funds available; email us at polywood.camping@gmail.com for more information."
Indianapolis,
Indiana
Newly announced by the organizers of the Southwest Love Fest in Tucson:
"The all new Midwest Love Fest is coming this August to Indianapolis! A one day conference on relationships, identity, community, and non-monogamy. Come see the great content and speakers you expect at Southwest Love Fest, but in your backyard. This event will run all day and into the evening so you can learn during the day and play by night." (8 a.m. to 11 p.m.)
As of March 2024: "Workshop applications are now open. We look for workshops that are thought-provoking, inclusive, sex & body positive, playful, teach healthy community-care and self-care, build up communities and break down existing sources of power inequality. Workshops can be geared for different levels of experience in non-monogamy as well as different types of non-monogamy practices. We also looks for diverse approaches to workshops, using many senses, not just auditory or visual, but also somatic experiences, body movement, artistic, etc.
Organizer Kate Kincaid says that she and co-organizer Sara Bachmann-Williams will help advise / mentor anyone who wants to start a hotel polycon in their own city. Write to southwestlovefest AT gmail.com.
August
18 – 24, 2024
East-central
New
Hampshire
This
year
PolyCamp
Northeast
expands
to
a
full
week
and
changes
its
name
to Camp
Menagerie.
"We
believe
this
name
more
accurately
reflects
the
beautifully
eclectic
bunch
of
humans
that
we
are.
Please
be
assured
that
it
will
be
the
same
great
Camp
you
know
and
love!"
This year there will be no partial tickets; the full week only. Prices are up accordingly.
PolyCamp
Northeast
began
as
a
3½-day
gathering
in
August
2016 and
has
been
running
since,
skipping
2020
during
the
pandemic.
I
attended
three
of
the
first
four,
and
what
a
collection
of
loving
hearts
this
was each
time.
Attendance is capped at 100 people. In
2021,
2022,
and
2023 it sold
out early. Attendees self-organized a
variety
of
talks
and
activities:
these
have
included
nonviolent
communication
techniques,
general
poly
discussion,
genderqueer
topics,
yoga,
nightly
campfire,
board
games,
crafts,
a
kayak
race,
cuddle
party, talent show, dance.
The
venue
is
a
well-equipped
old
New
England
summer
camp
(each of the group
cabins has an
adequately functional full
bath)
in
the
New
Hampshire
lakes
region
about
2½ hours
north
of
Boston.
Waterfront
with docks, paddleboards,
kayaks,
canoes.
Three
meals
a
day
included.
"We
support
each
other
in
the
full
spectrum
of
relationship
structures,
sexual
orientations,
and
gender
identities.
This
is
a
space
of
love,
inclusion
and
acceptance.
It
is
a
culture
of
respect,
safety,
communication
and
healthy
boundaries.
We
bring
our
best
selves
together
to
form
a
community
where
we
can
all
thrive.
Thank
you
for
co-creating
this
community
with
us!"
August 2024,
dates
to
be
decided
Carbondale
(near
Aspen),
Colorado?
(Not
to
be
confused
with
the
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
Retreat,
which
is
in
a
building
with
services.)
Robyn
Trask
and
Jesus
Garcia
of Loving
More have
held
this
informal
family-friendly
campout
nearly
every
year
for
19
years.
Lately
about
30
people
usually
attend. "Come
spend
a
weekend
in
the
amazing
White
River
National
Forest
near
Carbondale,
CO.
This
area
boasts
abundant
wildlife,
breathtaking
scenery,
and
a
rich
history.
Join
us
for
hiking,
exploring
ghost
towns,
fishing,
campfire
cooking,
conversations,
and
hanging
out
with
other
polyamorous
families
from
the
Rocky
Mountain
Region
and
beyond."
Robyn
writes,
"I
started
hosting
this
event
in
2003
at
the
earnest
request
of
my
children
who
loved
going
to
the
group
camp
each
year
and
meeting
other
kids
who
had
weird
polyamorous
parents.
This
event
was
the
place
my
kids
could
have
fun
and
gave
them
lifelong
friends.
"My
kids
are
grown
and
I
still
love
hosting
this
event
each
year
and
the
opportunity
to
share
my
passion
for
the
beauty
of
the
Rocky
Mountains
with
my
extended
family,
the
polyamory
community.
"Now
twenty
years
later
my
daughter
is
bringing
her
own
child
and
it
fills
me
with
happiness!"
August
23 – 25,
2024
Portland,
Oregon
Status
as
of
April 6, 2024:
"Polytopia,
Sex
Positive
Portland's
annual
three-day-weekend
exploration
of
polyamory,
will
be
held
this
year
for
the
first
time
since
2019!
We
have
signed
a
contract
with
the
Jupiter
Hotel
for
the
dates
of
August
23-25,
2024.
"This
is
a
Save
the
Date
post,
so
there's
no
price
listed
and
you
cannot
RSVP.
The
actual
event
will
be
posted
soon.
Detailed
schedule,
presenters,
ticket
prices,
and
other
details
are
still
under
development.
But
you
should
mark
your
calendars
now
for
this
event!
It'll
be
spectacular!
Here's
a
broad
outline
of
what
we're
planning:
Friday
night
welcome
event
7-11pm
Saturday:
two
tracks
of
programming
8am-7pm
Saturday
night
party
7-11pm
Sunday
morning
goodbye
event
9am-1pm
If
you
are
interested
in
helping
to
make
this
event
happen,
we
need
lots
of
volunteers
at
all
levels!"
Aug.
25 – Sept.
2, 2024
Nevada
desert
Village
of
PolyParadise has
been
running
at
Burning
Man
since
1999.
This
is a
large
theme-camp
cluster,
typically
350
x
440
feet,
usually
with
250
-
300
campers.
Generally
about
half
are
repeats
from
previous
years,
half
are
new.
Workshops
and
events
include Poly
High
Tea,
the
famous
Human
Carcass
Wash,
Poly
Friendly
Social/Mixer,
Ethical
Slut
Meet
&
Greet,
Fire
Flow
Yoga, the Twisted
Swan
Celtic
Pub,
and
the
non-alcoholic
Temple
of
Bacchus.
Writes
Benevolent
Dictator
Scotto,
"The
Village
of
PolyParadise
was
absolutely
incredible
and
our
best
effort
yet
at
creating
this
amazing
On-Playa
home.
Each
year
there
are
many
challenges
and
together
we
find
a
way
to
make
things
right,
together
we
build
an
amazing
space
within
the
gates
of
BRC,
a
place
to
really
call
home
in
the
desert." History.
September 2024?
Dates
to
be
decided
Ávila,
Spain
¿En
qué
consiste?
Consiste
en
una
combinación
de
debates,
talleres
y
actividades
lúdicas que
te
brindarán
la
oportunidad
de
conocer
gente
con
tus
mismas
ideas
y
actitudes,
compartir
experiencias
e
inquietudes,
ayudar
a
fortalecer
nuestra
comunidad
y
disfrutar
de
su
diversidad.
El
contenido
de
la
OpenCon
lo
proporcionan
las
personas
asistentes,
por
lo
que
cada
convocatoria
será
diferente.
Os
damos
una
idea
de
cómo
fue
la
agenda
de
años
anteriores.
Each
year,
this
conference
has
sold
out
fast
when
registration
opens.
City
to
be
decided?
Fall
2024?
Solo
poly
symbol
This
roving
conference,
"for
solo
polyamorous
people
and
those
who
love
them,"
missed
2020
during
Covid,
ran
online
in
2021, was scheduled then cancelled
for
New
York
in
2022, and didn't happen in 2023. It seems to be gone unless someone revives it. Watch
the
link
for news
of
2024.
Past
description: "Are
you
new
to
polyamory
and
exploring
the
many
possible
configurations,
or
been
practicing
honest
non-monogamy
for
decades?
Regardless
of
where
you
are
on
the
experience
spectrum,
you’ll
appreciate
the
support,
community,
camaraderie,
hospitality,
and
awesome
keynote
speakers
we’re
assembling
for
your
enjoyment,
learning,
and
growth." In
past
years
SoPoCo
sold
out
in
advance.
Fall
2024?
Miami,
FL
"RelateFest
is
for
people
who
love
exploring
relationships,
questioning
relationship
norms,
learning
new
skills,
and
connecting
with
others.
RelateFest
brings
the
principles
of
curiosity
and
conscious
relating
to
a
safe
space
for
learning,
connection,
and
play.
The
event
will
feature
relationship
experts
holding
interactive
workshops,
small
group
discussions,
and
immersive
experiences.
Produced
by
Esther
Perel
Discussion
Group, Leveled
Up
Love,
and
WeDeepen"
(a
for-profit
company).
Last
I
knew
registration
itself
was
$497+
per
person.
Hotel
options
ranged
from
pricy
(onsite)
to
basic
(offsite).
This
is
one
of
many
wellness/
growth/
relationship/
spiritual
events
put
on
by
the Deepen company,
"the
most
raved
about
Social
&
Transformational
Experiences."
Sept.
30 – Oct.
4,
Rittergut
Lützensömmern,
Germany
The
German
organization
PolyAmores
Netzwerk
(PAN)
e.V.,
at Polyamory.de, runs
transregional
"Poly
Meetings"
for
German-speaking
polyfolks
in
Germany,
Switzerland
and
Austria.
The
organizers
say
the
gatherings
are
(translated)
"a
platform
for
networking
and
for
the
exchange
of
experiences
and
practical
knowhow.
Also
theoretical
discussions
and
the
planning
of
cultural
and
political
activities.
The
programme
is
self
organized
by
the
participants."
Minimum
age
18.
The
working
language
is
German.
In
past
years
the
meetings
have
sold
out
within
days
of
being
announced.
(Also
see Poly-Kalender of
local
and
regional
German-speaking
events.)
October 2024,
dates
to
be
decided
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mt.
Storm,
WV
This
is
a
smaller,
more
intimate
version
of
New
Culture
Summer
Camp
held
in
July
at
the
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center
in
the
mountains
of
West
Virginia
(see
July
here
for
description).
These
events
draw
about
70%
polyfolks;
the
focus
is
on
building
practices
of
transparency,
self-understanding,
communication
skills,
and
intimacy
to
create
radically
better
relationships
of
any
type.
The
aim
to
build,
over
several
days,
an
enduring
network
of
like-minded
people
who
don't
necessarily
fall
out
of
touch
as
happens
after
most
events.
"The
point
is
building
tribe,"
says
co-organizer
Michael
Rios.
I've
gone
to
the
larger
New
Culture
Summer
Camp
for
many
years
and
can't
recommend
Center
for
a
New
Culture
events
highly
enough.
From
the website:
“Here
is
where
you
can
meet
people
at
a
deeper
level,
learn
the
skills
needed
to
handle
your
relationships,
and
become
a
part
of
a
supportive
network
of
people
who
share
your
relationship
values....
Spend
up
to
5
days
in
a
rustic
woods-and-water
setting,
hang
out
around
a
bonfire,
enjoy
a
song
circle,
cuddle
up
at
a
snuggle
party,
learn
to
take
your
relationships
to
the
next
level,
and
build
connections
with
others
that
last
all
year
long!”
Explains
Michael,
"We
are
exploring
the
questions:
What
does
it
mean
to
be
there
for
each
other?
What
would
it
take
to
be
solidly
present
in
each
others’
lives,
responding
flexibly
and
with
love
to
the
needs
that
emerge?
What
might
we
do
right
now
to
be
there
for
each
other?
What
role
does
commitment
play?
The
deep
truth
is
that
each
person
is
fundamentally
alone.
Yet
at
the
same
time,
there
is
beauty
and
skillfulness
in
interdependence....
And
beyond
merely
meeting
needs,
we
can
find
delight
in
co-creation,
and
in
the
many
ways
we
can
support
each
other
in
greater
joy.
At
this
community
journey,
we
will
open
these
explorations
in
a
field
of
love,
curiosity,
and
compassion." Video.
Also, a
camper's
video.
May 10 – 13, 2024
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mt.
Storm,
WV
New Culture events, in my experience, always draw about 70% polyfolks and are super poly-friendly. This year "We're transforming New Culture Spring Camp into a long weekend 'getaway' focused on ease, relaxation, and intimacy. The May Getaway is for people who have been to at least one New Culture retreat, and for new folks who are sponsored by returning attendees.
* Dance * Meditation * Nature Walks * ZEGG Forum * Emotional Healing * Conscious Touch * Cuddles * Loving Community * And much more! *" Details.
New Culture events are alcohol
and
drug
free and are Covid-cautious; for this one daily rapid (antigen) tests are required for two days beforehand and then on arrival.
May
17 – 20,
2024
Galliners,
Catalonia,
Spain
This will be OpenCon Catalonia's eleventh year. It runs self-generated unconference style. "IOCC is an opportunity to get together in a friendly environment and share our experiences, our questions, the lessons we’ve learned, and the joys we’ve experienced in this new territory of polyamory/non-monogamy/open relationships. We’ll be about 40 people, and the basic plan is to combine workshops with plenty of opportunities for relaxing and socialising. Check the what will happen page to get an idea of how it could be, and don’t forget to read our Code of Conduct. Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) will be provided from Friday dinner to Monday lunch." The working language is English. Over 18 only (infants OK).
This will be OpenCon Catalonia's eleventh year. It runs self-generated unconference style. "IOCC is an opportunity to get together in a friendly environment and share our experiences, our questions, the lessons we’ve learned, and the joys we’ve experienced in this new territory of polyamory/non-monogamy/open relationships. We’ll be about 40 people, and the basic plan is to combine workshops with plenty of opportunities for relaxing and socialising. Check the what will happen page to get an idea of how it could be, and don’t forget to read our Code of Conduct. Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) will be provided from Friday dinner to Monday lunch." The working language is English. Over 18 only (infants OK).
May
28 – June
2,
2024
Rittergut
Lützensömmern, Germany
The German organization PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V., at Polyamory.de, runs transregional "Poly Meetings" for German-speaking polyfolks in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The organizers say the gatherings are "a platform for networking and for the exchange of experiences and practical knowhow. Also theoretical discussions and the planning of cultural and political activities. The programme is self organized by the participants." Minimum age 18. In past years the meetings have sold out within days of being announced. (Also see Poly-Kalender of local and regional German-speaking events.)
The German organization PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V., at Polyamory.de, runs transregional "Poly Meetings" for German-speaking polyfolks in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The organizers say the gatherings are "a platform for networking and for the exchange of experiences and practical knowhow. Also theoretical discussions and the planning of cultural and political activities. The programme is self organized by the participants." Minimum age 18. In past years the meetings have sold out within days of being announced. (Also see Poly-Kalender of local and regional German-speaking events.)
● Colorado
Poly
Weekend
Retreat –
Summer
July
4 –
8,
2024
Breckenridge,
CO
This
gathering
has
recently
been
held
twice
a
year,
in
winter
and
summer. "Relaxing
vacation
time
with
poly
friends.
The
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
is
a
long
weekend
retreat
hosted
in
a
beautiful
mountain
lodge
with
all
meals
provided.
The
retreat
is
for
polyamorous
people
and
people
in
poly-relationships
to
hang
out
together
in
a
poly-normative,
accepting
environment.
The
weekend
goes
from
Thursday
afternoon
to
Monday
morning
and
is
held
in
the
beautiful
Rocky
Mountains
in
Colorado.
Come
relax,
make
new
friends,
and
enjoy
the
beauty
of
the
Rockies!"
July 5 – 7, 2024
Alborache, València, Spain
"Un fin de semana de convivencia, debates, talleres y actividades lúdicas. Una oportunidad de conocer gente con ideas y actitudes abiertas en torno a las relaciones afectivas.
"Un fin de semana de convivencia, debates, talleres y actividades lúdicas. Una oportunidad de conocer gente con ideas y actitudes abiertas en torno a las relaciones afectivas.
"Este encuentro anual se lleva a cabo cada verano, en el mes de junio o julio, en un albergue en plena naturaleza. Constituye un espacio donde compartir experiencias e inquietudes sobre modelos de vínculos entre las personas, desde una perspectiva feminista, solidaria y basada en el respeto. El contenido de la OpenCon lo proporcionan las personas asistentes, por lo que cada convocatoria es una sorpresa y una experiencia única."
July 12 – 21,
2024
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mount
Storm,
WV
I've attended this interesting, powerful, ten-day event for many years. Network for a New Culture explores building intimate community through practices of curiosity, transparency, self-exploration, and self-responsibility. The days are structured around ZEGG Forum, various self-improvement and human-potential presenters visiting to offer their stuff, and sharing life, work, and play in the West Virginia mountain woods.
“While not exclusively a poly event,” says co-founder Michael Rios, “Summer Camp East is about 70% polyfolk, and 100% poly-friendly.” Here are my impressions from my first year. Here's a bit more from my fourth (last two paragraphs).
From
the
description:
"A 10-day
experimental
community
for
emotional
intimacy,
radical
love,
and
global
change. Experience
what
we’ve
learned
in
our
25
years
of
exploration
–
the
compassion,
communication,
and
intimate
connection
that
make
a
new
world
possible.
Connect
in
the
ways
you’ve
always
wanted,
learn
skills
to
transform
your
daily
life,
and
dive
into
the
challenges
of
creating
a
world
that
works
for
all
beings."
About 60 or 70 people usually attend. Vegetarian and vegan group meals; cabins and campsites in the woods (no vehicle hookups); bathhouse with sinks and hot showers. Conditions are mostly rustic, but some indoor accommodations are available onsite (priority goes to those with special needs), and a camp-owned motel is 3 miles away. Inquire whether there's a kids' program this year. A beautiful, and accurate, promo video (I'm in it!). Another camper speaks.
Covid
protocols
are
serious,
with
emphasis
on
repeated
testing.
In
2022
and
2023
these
included
proof
of
Covid
vaccination
or
recent
infection
(recovered),
six
daily
rapid
antigen
tests
before
and
during
camp,
and
other
measures.
I
was
there
both
years;
not
one
positive
Covid
test
showed
up
in
some
520
total
rapid
tests
conducted
and
checked
onsite,
nor
was
anyone
symptomatic,
nor
was
there
any
reported
case
post-camp.
And
IMO,
both
were
among
the
best
Summer
Camps
I've
been
to.
July
15 – 21,
2024
US
and
worldwide
OPEN,
the
Organization
for
Polyamory
and
Ethical
Non-monogamy,
launched
the
first Day
of
Visibility
for
Non-Monogamy
in
2023.
Signing
on
were
40
organizations
spanning poly
to
RA
to
swinging that put on at
least
19
local
public
events.
OPEN
ran
a
publicity campaign
beforehand
and
offered
a
panoply
of
graphics,
text,
and
other
resources
to
help
users
spread
the
word.
See
my article
on
the
project
and
its
background.
Afterward, feedback from the member groups revealed a clear wish for a Week of Visibility rather than one designated day. So for 2024, OPEN has scheduled a Week of Visibility for Non-Monogamy for July 15 through 21. They plan to make it permanently in the third week in July. Planning for 2024 is under way. Join the Week of Visibility Planning page on OPEN's Discord server to keep up with what's going on, coordinate with other people, and/or get help setting up your own local event.
Afterward, feedback from the member groups revealed a clear wish for a Week of Visibility rather than one designated day. So for 2024, OPEN has scheduled a Week of Visibility for Non-Monogamy for July 15 through 21. They plan to make it permanently in the third week in July. Planning for 2024 is under way. Join the Week of Visibility Planning page on OPEN's Discord server to keep up with what's going on, coordinate with other people, and/or get help setting up your own local event.
Sign up for OPEN's
email
list
to
keep
up
with developments,
and join the
discussions
on their
Discord
server.
● Minnesota PolyCon
July 20, 2024
July 20, 2024
St. Louis Park, MN (next to Minneapolis)
In 2018 this new one-day event drew 86 people, and 2019 "was a big success with an attendance of 171," wrote MNPoly organizer Randy Frehse. For 2020 he wrote "We are hoping for 200 - 250," but it was cancelled by the pandemic. Ditto 2021. But the con was back in 2022 and 2023, recovering with financial aid from The Polyamory Foundation. It has a new venue for 2024.
In 2018 this new one-day event drew 86 people, and 2019 "was a big success with an attendance of 171," wrote MNPoly organizer Randy Frehse. For 2020 he wrote "We are hoping for 200 - 250," but it was cancelled by the pandemic. Ditto 2021. But the con was back in 2022 and 2023, recovering with financial aid from The Polyamory Foundation. It has a new venue for 2024.
Sessions have included sex positivity & consent, anatomy of arousal, solo poly, polyamory & mental health, poly & parenting, poly & religion, deconstructing jealousy, being out & poly, and fundamentals of good communication in your polycule. Organized and run by the 1500-member MNPoly Meetup group.
August 9 – 11, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
"A kid-friendly poly camping weekend. Join us at Polywood this year to laugh, learn, and community build under the stars. Meet fellow like-minded poly people around the large communal bonfire; take part in various relationship building and strengthening discussions; share your poly knowledge and experiences over wine and cheese. We have limited scholarship funds available; email us at polywood.camping@gmail.com for more information."
Indianapolis,
Indiana
Newly announced by the organizers of the Southwest Love Fest in Tucson:
"The all new Midwest Love Fest is coming this August to Indianapolis! A one day conference on relationships, identity, community, and non-monogamy. Come see the great content and speakers you expect at Southwest Love Fest, but in your backyard. This event will run all day and into the evening so you can learn during the day and play by night." (8 a.m. to 11 p.m.)
As of March 2024: "Workshop applications are now open. We look for workshops that are thought-provoking, inclusive, sex & body positive, playful, teach healthy community-care and self-care, build up communities and break down existing sources of power inequality. Workshops can be geared for different levels of experience in non-monogamy as well as different types of non-monogamy practices. We also looks for diverse approaches to workshops, using many senses, not just auditory or visual, but also somatic experiences, body movement, artistic, etc.
Organizer Kate Kincaid says that she and co-organizer Sara Bachmann-Williams will help advise / mentor anyone who wants to start a hotel polycon in their own city. Write to southwestlovefest AT gmail.com.
August
18 – 24, 2024
East-central
New
Hampshire
This
year
PolyCamp
Northeast
expands
to
a
full
week
and
changes
its
name
to Camp
Menagerie.
"We
believe
this
name
more
accurately
reflects
the
beautifully
eclectic
bunch
of
humans
that
we
are.
Please
be
assured
that
it
will
be
the
same
great
Camp
you
know
and
love!"
This year there will be no partial tickets; the full week only. Prices are up accordingly.
PolyCamp
Northeast
began
as
a
3½-day
gathering
in
August
2016 and
has
been
running
since,
skipping
2020
during
the
pandemic.
I
attended
three
of
the
first
four,
and
what
a
collection
of
loving
hearts
this
was each
time.
Attendance is capped at 100 people. In
2021,
2022,
and
2023 it sold
out early. Attendees self-organized a
variety
of
talks
and
activities:
these
have
included
nonviolent
communication
techniques,
general
poly
discussion,
genderqueer
topics,
yoga,
nightly
campfire,
board
games,
crafts,
a
kayak
race,
cuddle
party, talent show, dance.
The venue is a well-equipped old New England summer camp (each of the group cabins has an adequately functional full bath) in the New Hampshire lakes region about 2½ hours north of Boston. Waterfront with docks, paddleboards, kayaks, canoes. Three meals a day included.
The venue is a well-equipped old New England summer camp (each of the group cabins has an adequately functional full bath) in the New Hampshire lakes region about 2½ hours north of Boston. Waterfront with docks, paddleboards, kayaks, canoes. Three meals a day included.
"We support each other in the full spectrum of relationship structures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. This is a space of love, inclusion and acceptance. It is a culture of respect, safety, communication and healthy boundaries. We bring our best selves together to form a community where we can all thrive. Thank you for co-creating this community with us!"
August 2024,
dates
to
be
decided
Carbondale
(near
Aspen),
Colorado?
(Not
to
be
confused
with
the
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
Retreat,
which
is
in
a
building
with
services.)
Robyn
Trask
and
Jesus
Garcia
of Loving
More have
held
this
informal
family-friendly
campout
nearly
every
year
for
19
years.
Lately
about
30
people
usually
attend. "Come
spend
a
weekend
in
the
amazing
White
River
National
Forest
near
Carbondale,
CO.
This
area
boasts
abundant
wildlife,
breathtaking
scenery,
and
a
rich
history.
Join
us
for
hiking,
exploring
ghost
towns,
fishing,
campfire
cooking,
conversations,
and
hanging
out
with
other
polyamorous
families
from
the
Rocky
Mountain
Region
and
beyond."
Robyn writes, "I started hosting this event in 2003 at the earnest request of my children who loved going to the group camp each year and meeting other kids who had weird polyamorous parents. This event was the place my kids could have fun and gave them lifelong friends.
"Now
twenty
years
later
my
daughter
is
bringing
her
own
child
and
it
fills
me
with
happiness!"
Robyn writes, "I started hosting this event in 2003 at the earnest request of my children who loved going to the group camp each year and meeting other kids who had weird polyamorous parents. This event was the place my kids could have fun and gave them lifelong friends.
"My
kids
are
grown
and
I
still
love
hosting
this
event
each
year
and
the
opportunity
to
share
my
passion
for
the
beauty
of
the
Rocky
Mountains
with
my
extended
family,
the
polyamory
community.
August
23 – 25,
2024
Portland,
Oregon
Status as of April 6, 2024: "Polytopia, Sex Positive Portland's annual three-day-weekend exploration of polyamory, will be held this year for the first time since 2019! We have signed a contract with the Jupiter Hotel for the dates of August 23-25, 2024.
Status as of April 6, 2024: "Polytopia, Sex Positive Portland's annual three-day-weekend exploration of polyamory, will be held this year for the first time since 2019! We have signed a contract with the Jupiter Hotel for the dates of August 23-25, 2024.
"This
is
a
Save
the
Date
post,
so
there's
no
price
listed
and
you
cannot
RSVP.
The
actual
event
will
be
posted
soon.
Detailed
schedule,
presenters,
ticket
prices,
and
other
details
are
still
under
development.
But
you
should
mark
your
calendars
now
for
this
event!
It'll
be
spectacular!
Here's
a
broad
outline
of
what
we're
planning:
Friday
night
welcome
event
7-11pm
Saturday:
two
tracks
of
programming
8am-7pm
Saturday
night
party
7-11pm
Sunday
morning
goodbye
event
9am-1pm
If
you
are
interested
in
helping
to
make
this
event
happen,
we
need
lots
of
volunteers
at
all
levels!"
Aug.
25 – Sept.
2, 2024
Nevada desert
Nevada desert
Village of PolyParadise has been running at Burning Man since 1999. This is a large theme-camp cluster, typically 350 x 440 feet, usually with 250 - 300 campers. Generally about half are repeats from previous years, half are new. Workshops and events include Poly High Tea, the famous Human Carcass Wash, Poly Friendly Social/Mixer, Ethical Slut Meet & Greet, Fire Flow Yoga, the Twisted Swan Celtic Pub, and the non-alcoholic Temple of Bacchus. Writes Benevolent Dictator Scotto, "The Village of PolyParadise was absolutely incredible and our best effort yet at creating this amazing On-Playa home. Each year there are many challenges and together we find a way to make things right, together we build an amazing space within the gates of BRC, a place to really call home in the desert." History.
September 2024?
Dates
to
be
decided
Ávila, Spain
Ávila, Spain
¿En qué consiste? Consiste en una combinación de debates, talleres y actividades lúdicas que te brindarán la oportunidad de conocer gente con tus mismas ideas y actitudes, compartir experiencias e inquietudes, ayudar a fortalecer nuestra comunidad y disfrutar de su diversidad. El contenido de la OpenCon lo proporcionan las personas asistentes, por lo que cada convocatoria será diferente. Os damos una idea de cómo fue la agenda de años anteriores. Each year, this conference has sold out fast when registration opens.
City
to
be
decided?
Fall
2024?
Solo
poly
symbol |
Past description: "Are you new to polyamory and exploring the many possible configurations, or been practicing honest non-monogamy for decades? Regardless of where you are on the experience spectrum, you’ll appreciate the support, community, camaraderie, hospitality, and awesome keynote speakers we’re assembling for your enjoyment, learning, and growth." In past years SoPoCo sold out in advance.
Fall
2024?
Miami,
FL
"RelateFest
is
for
people
who
love
exploring
relationships,
questioning
relationship
norms,
learning
new
skills,
and
connecting
with
others.
RelateFest
brings
the
principles
of
curiosity
and
conscious
relating
to
a
safe
space
for
learning,
connection,
and
play.
The
event
will
feature
relationship
experts
holding
interactive
workshops,
small
group
discussions,
and
immersive
experiences.
Produced
by
Esther
Perel
Discussion
Group, Leveled
Up
Love,
and
WeDeepen"
(a
for-profit
company).
Last
I
knew
registration
itself
was
$497+
per
person.
Hotel
options
ranged
from
pricy
(onsite)
to
basic
(offsite).
This
is
one
of
many
wellness/
growth/
relationship/
spiritual
events
put
on
by
the Deepen company,
"the
most
raved
about
Social
&
Transformational
Experiences."
Sept.
30 – Oct.
4,
Rittergut
Lützensömmern,
Germany
The German organization PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V., at Polyamory.de, runs transregional "Poly Meetings" for German-speaking polyfolks in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The organizers say the gatherings are (translated) "a platform for networking and for the exchange of experiences and practical knowhow. Also theoretical discussions and the planning of cultural and political activities. The programme is self organized by the participants." Minimum age 18. The working language is German. In past years the meetings have sold out within days of being announced. (Also see Poly-Kalender of local and regional German-speaking events.)
The German organization PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V., at Polyamory.de, runs transregional "Poly Meetings" for German-speaking polyfolks in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The organizers say the gatherings are (translated) "a platform for networking and for the exchange of experiences and practical knowhow. Also theoretical discussions and the planning of cultural and political activities. The programme is self organized by the participants." Minimum age 18. The working language is German. In past years the meetings have sold out within days of being announced. (Also see Poly-Kalender of local and regional German-speaking events.)
October 2024,
dates
to
be
decided
Abrams
Creek
Retreat
Center,
Mt.
Storm,
WV
This is a smaller, more intimate version of New Culture Summer Camp held in July at the Abrams Creek Retreat Center in the mountains of West Virginia (see July here for description). These events draw about 70% polyfolks; the focus is on building practices of transparency, self-understanding, communication skills, and intimacy to create radically better relationships of any type. The aim to build, over several days, an enduring network of like-minded people who don't necessarily fall out of touch as happens after most events. "The point is building tribe," says co-organizer Michael Rios.
This is a smaller, more intimate version of New Culture Summer Camp held in July at the Abrams Creek Retreat Center in the mountains of West Virginia (see July here for description). These events draw about 70% polyfolks; the focus is on building practices of transparency, self-understanding, communication skills, and intimacy to create radically better relationships of any type. The aim to build, over several days, an enduring network of like-minded people who don't necessarily fall out of touch as happens after most events. "The point is building tribe," says co-organizer Michael Rios.
I've
gone
to
the
larger
New
Culture
Summer
Camp
for
many
years
and
can't
recommend
Center
for
a
New
Culture
events
highly
enough.
From
the website:
“Here
is
where
you
can
meet
people
at
a
deeper
level,
learn
the
skills
needed
to
handle
your
relationships,
and
become
a
part
of
a
supportive
network
of
people
who
share
your
relationship
values....
Spend
up
to
5
days
in
a
rustic
woods-and-water
setting,
hang
out
around
a
bonfire,
enjoy
a
song
circle,
cuddle
up
at
a
snuggle
party,
learn
to
take
your
relationships
to
the
next
level,
and
build
connections
with
others
that
last
all
year
long!”
Explains
Michael,
"We
are
exploring
the
questions:
What
does
it
mean
to
be
there
for
each
other?
What
would
it
take
to
be
solidly
present
in
each
others’
lives,
responding
flexibly
and
with
love
to
the
needs
that
emerge?
What
might
we
do
right
now
to
be
there
for
each
other?
What
role
does
commitment
play?
The
deep
truth
is
that
each
person
is
fundamentally
alone.
Yet
at
the
same
time,
there
is
beauty
and
skillfulness
in
interdependence....
And
beyond
merely
meeting
needs,
we
can
find
delight
in
co-creation,
and
in
the
many
ways
we
can
support
each
other
in
greater
joy.
At
this
community
journey,
we
will
open
these
explorations
in
a
field
of
love,
curiosity,
and
compassion." Video.
Also, a
camper's
video.
Pre-Covid, Polyday was drawing
a total of 200-plus
people. The 2018 Polyday
got a nice writeup in Vice UK. From the website: "Polyday is an annual day for
ethically non-monogamous
people and our allies to get
together and share our
knowledge and experiences --
the questions we've
encountered, the lessons we've
learned, and the joys and
sorrows we've experienced. It
is a day for responsible
non-monogamous people to
experience a comfortable,
non-judgmental environment
with their fellow poly people
and their families. Children
of all ages are
welcome. Polyday provides an
educational and community
support network for people who
are involved in ethically
non-monogamous loving
relationships, or who would
like to be allies. We promote
mutual, collaborative
encouragement, solace, and
exploration." Facebook page. In past years Polyday has sold
out in advance.
Update: Polyday 2022 was
brutally cancelled by a hostile political faction, a failed
competitor that had tried to
use its name. After this,
Polyday's future is unknown; its organizers have expressed burnout and fear. It didn't happen in 2023, and I have heard nothing about 2024.
November 23
every year
Polyamory Day began in Canada in 2017 and has spread worldwide. Here are articles with graphics and other publicity materials you can use. Google "Polyamory Day [your year]" for current doings.
2025
November 23
every year
Polyamory Day began in Canada in 2017 and has spread worldwide. Here are articles with graphics and other publicity materials you can use. Google "Polyamory Day [your year]" for current doings.
2025
February 2025? Future to be decided.Philadelphia, PA
2024 banner
This is a direct descendent of the first, original polyamory convention (PepCON 1987) and through 2024 was still put on by Loving More (once a print magazine, now a nonprofit). But Loving More director Robyn Trask, who was pretty much solely responsible for the conventions for many years, announced at the 2024 Poly Living that this would be her last. Will a replacement emerge?
Poly Living missed two years during Covid but came back in force in February 2024, with about 160 attendees. Here was the 2024 schedule. Here's my writeup of the first Poly Living I attended (2006). In 2012 I gave the keynote speech.
Loving More, "supporting polyamory and relationship choice since 1985," is the original poly organization of the modern era and played an early central role in getting the whole movement going.
● Love
Is
Love
(Germany)
Early
2025;
dates
to
be
decided
Germany
The
German
organizations
PolyAmores
Netzwerk
(PAN)
e.V.
(Polyamory.de),
and Bisexuelles
Netzwerk
e.V.
(BiNe.net)
created
this
new
conference
in
2022
as
the
region
emerged
from
the
pandemic
disruptions.
The
working
language
is
German.
PolyAmores Netzwerk normally runs trans-regional
"Poly
Meetings"
for
German-speaking
polyfolks
in
Germany,
Switzerland
and
Austria.
The
organizers
say
the
gatherings
are
"a
platform
for
networking
and
for
the
exchange
of
experiences
and
practical
knowhow.
Also
theoretical
discussions
and
the
planning
of
cultural
and
political
activities."
(Also,
see
the Poly-Kalender of
local
and
regional
German-speaking
events.)
● Colorado
Poly
Weekend
Retreat –
Winter
Winter 2025? To
be
decided.
Breckenridge,
CO
This
gathering
is
sometimes held
twice
a
year,
in
January as well as in August. "Relaxing
vacation
time
with
poly
friends.
The
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
is
a
long
weekend
retreat
hosted
in
a
beautiful
mountain
lodge
with
all
meals
provided.
The
retreat
is
for
polyamorous
people
and
people
in
poly-relationships
to
hang
out
together
in
a
poly-normative,
accepting
environment.
The
weekend
goes
from
Thursday
afternoon
to
Monday
morning
and
is
held
in
the
beautiful
Rocky
Mountains
in
Colorado.
Come
relax,
make
new
friends,
and
enjoy
the
beauty
of
the
Rockies!"
Feb.
27 – March
4, 2025
Neuhof, Germany
The German
organization
PolyAmores
Netzwerk
(PAN) e.V.,
at Polyamory.de, runs
transregional
"Poly
Meetings"
for
German-speaking
polyfolks in
Germany,
Switzerland
and Austria.
The
organizers
say the
gatherings
are "a
platform for
networking
and for the
exchange of
experiences
and
practical
knowhow.
Also
theoretical
discussions
and the
planning of
cultural and
political
activities.
The
programme is
self
organized by
the
participants."
Minimum age
18. In past
years the
meetings
have sold
out within
days of
being
announced.
(Also
see Poly-Kalender of
local and
regional
German-speaking
events.)
February 28 every year
Metamour Day (Valentine's Day times two) celebrates "polyamory's most distinctive relationship!" Articles with publicity materials you can use. Google to find current doings.
February 2025? Future to be decided.
Philadelphia, PA
2024 banner |
This is a direct descendent of the first, original polyamory convention (PepCON 1987) and through 2024 was still put on by Loving More (once a print magazine, now a nonprofit). But Loving More director Robyn Trask, who was pretty much solely responsible for the conventions for many years, announced at the 2024 Poly Living that this would be her last. Will a replacement emerge?
Poly Living missed two years during Covid but came back in force in February 2024, with about 160 attendees. Here was the 2024 schedule. Here's my writeup of the first Poly Living I attended (2006). In 2012 I gave the keynote speech.
Loving More, "supporting polyamory and relationship choice since 1985," is the original poly organization of the modern era and played an early central role in getting the whole movement going.
● Love
Is
Love
(Germany)
Early 2025; dates to be decided
Early 2025; dates to be decided
Germany
The German organizations PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V. (Polyamory.de), and Bisexuelles Netzwerk e.V. (BiNe.net) created this new conference in 2022 as the region emerged from the pandemic disruptions. The working language is German.
● Colorado
Poly
Weekend
Retreat –
Winter
Winter 2025? To
be
decided.
Breckenridge,
CO
This
gathering
is
sometimes held
twice
a
year,
in
January as well as in August. "Relaxing
vacation
time
with
poly
friends.
The
Colorado
Polyamory
Weekend
is
a
long
weekend
retreat
hosted
in
a
beautiful
mountain
lodge
with
all
meals
provided.
The
retreat
is
for
polyamorous
people
and
people
in
poly-relationships
to
hang
out
together
in
a
poly-normative,
accepting
environment.
The
weekend
goes
from
Thursday
afternoon
to
Monday
morning
and
is
held
in
the
beautiful
Rocky
Mountains
in
Colorado.
Come
relax,
make
new
friends,
and
enjoy
the
beauty
of
the
Rockies!"
Feb.
27 – March
4, 2025
Neuhof, Germany
The German organization PolyAmores Netzwerk (PAN) e.V., at Polyamory.de, runs transregional "Poly Meetings" for German-speaking polyfolks in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The organizers say the gatherings are "a platform for networking and for the exchange of experiences and practical knowhow. Also theoretical discussions and the planning of cultural and political activities. The programme is self organized by the participants." Minimum age 18. In past years the meetings have sold out within days of being announced. (Also see Poly-Kalender of local and regional German-speaking events.)
February 28 every year
Metamour Day (Valentine's Day times two) celebrates "polyamory's most distinctive relationship!" Articles with publicity materials you can use. Google to find current doings.
April 17 – 29, 2025Bastrop State Park near Austin, Texas
"Poly Big Fun (PBF), the longest running polyamory event in Texas, is a community-organized retreat open to all families. Unlike most events it is 100% community run. Everyone pays the same amount and their are no paid speakers. Workshops are given by members of our community on topics that they are knowledgeable and passionate about. Board game and other geek enthusiasts abound. There will be a Polyamory 101 class and ice-breaking events, so whether you have been practicing polyamory for 2 weeks or 25 years, you will find opportunities to connect with your community HERE!
"Previous events have featured dancing, board games, crafts, hiking, bike riding and other events! Bring your passion, volunteer to teach, help make our shared experience better!" Facebook page.
April 2025; dates to be decided.Tucson, AZ
From the description for the 2024 conference: "We expect 400+ attendees, with all-day workshops, Friday and Saturday night social events, community vendors + more! As always, we maintain our mission to create greater opportunities to find community and learn from others' diverse relationship experiences." The 2024 workshops, speakers, and evening entertainment.
"Our vision for Southwest Love Fest is to serve our non-monogamy community as a whole. Our community includes all genders, ethnicities, sexuality preferences, and varying levels of ability, ages, and experiences. We seek to strengthen our non-monogamous community by relevant educational topics and discussions on non-monogamy, examining privilege and inequality in non-monogamy. We want to create fun and interactive spaces with activities for people to meet, play, and be seen in an inclusive and affirming environment.
"We also believe in creating small-scale local economy by profit-sharing with speakers and staff, choosing vendors from within our communities and banking with a credit union. As much as possible, we divest from large corporate entities."
The first Southwest Love Fest in 2018 sold out with over 225 attendees, and the second in 2019 had over 400. I was at SW Love Fest in 2018 and found the vibe exuberant and excited, the attendees (80% from Arizona) great-hearted and significantly diverse. The Saturday-night social events included, simultaneously, a treasure hunt, an EDM dance party with costuming available, and a cuddle puddle in a big pop-up gazebo under the stars. There was a CEU track for psychology professionals to earn continuing-education credits. Post Covid, the conference was back in full force in 2024.
Conference organizers Kate Kincaid and Sara Bachmann-Williams have recruited many volunteers from the Tucson and Phoenix poly and kink communities, and the success of the event seems to have come largely from word of mouth. Heavy early involvement by the local community seems to make the difference for the success of a polycon.
Kate says that she and Sara will help advise / mentor anyone who wants to start a hotel polycon in their own city; write to southwestlovefest AT gmail.com.
_____________________________________________________________________
April 17 – 29, 2025
Bastrop State Park near Austin, Texas
"Poly Big Fun (PBF), the longest running polyamory event in Texas, is a community-organized retreat open to all families. Unlike most events it is 100% community run. Everyone pays the same amount and their are no paid speakers. Workshops are given by members of our community on topics that they are knowledgeable and passionate about. Board game and other geek enthusiasts abound. There will be a Polyamory 101 class and ice-breaking events, so whether you have been practicing polyamory for 2 weeks or 25 years, you will find opportunities to connect with your community HERE!
"Previous events have featured dancing, board games, crafts, hiking, bike riding and other events! Bring your passion, volunteer to teach, help make our shared experience better!" Facebook page.
April 2025; dates to be decided.
Tucson, AZ
From the description for the 2024 conference: "We expect 400+ attendees, with all-day workshops, Friday and Saturday night social events, community vendors + more! As always, we maintain our mission to create greater opportunities to find community and learn from others' diverse relationship experiences." The 2024 workshops, speakers, and evening entertainment.
"Our vision for Southwest Love Fest is to serve our non-monogamy community as a whole. Our community includes all genders, ethnicities, sexuality preferences, and varying levels of ability, ages, and experiences. We seek to strengthen our non-monogamous community by relevant educational topics and discussions on non-monogamy, examining privilege and inequality in non-monogamy. We want to create fun and interactive spaces with activities for people to meet, play, and be seen in an inclusive and affirming environment.
"We also believe in creating small-scale local economy by profit-sharing with speakers and staff, choosing vendors from within our communities and banking with a credit union. As much as possible, we divest from large corporate entities."
The first Southwest Love Fest in 2018 sold out with over 225 attendees, and the second in 2019 had over 400. I was at SW Love Fest in 2018 and found the vibe exuberant and excited, the attendees (80% from Arizona) great-hearted and significantly diverse. The Saturday-night social events included, simultaneously, a treasure hunt, an EDM dance party with costuming available, and a cuddle puddle in a big pop-up gazebo under the stars. There was a CEU track for psychology professionals to earn continuing-education credits. Post Covid, the conference was back in full force in 2024.
Conference organizers Kate Kincaid and Sara Bachmann-Williams have recruited many volunteers from the Tucson and Phoenix poly and kink communities, and the success of the event seems to have come largely from word of mouth. Heavy early involvement by the local community seems to make the difference for the success of a polycon.
Conference organizers Kate Kincaid and Sara Bachmann-Williams have recruited many volunteers from the Tucson and Phoenix poly and kink communities, and the success of the event seems to have come largely from word of mouth. Heavy early involvement by the local community seems to make the difference for the success of a polycon.
Kate says that she and Sara will help advise / mentor anyone who wants to start a hotel polycon in their own city; write to southwestlovefest AT gmail.com.
_____________________________________________________________________
To add an event (of wide geographic interest, please) email it to me at alan7388 {at} gmail.com.
Kimchi Cuddles is based the cartoonist's real life. See her followup strip. And yes, she, "Rajeev" and "Terra" all made it to the Beyond the Love polycon in Ohio that year. |
How to find your LOCAL POLY COMMUNITIES and their get-togethers!
For socials, potlucks, discussions, support, etc. near you, find and join your local poly group(s). You can:
● Try googling polyamory with
your state and/or city.
● Search Meetup.com with keyword polyamory and enter your zip code or city.
● Search Facebook Groups for polyamory with the name of your state and/or city, and for poly with your state and/or city. Ditto Instagram, Twitter.
● In Canada see Canadian Polyamory Groups, a list put up by the Canadian Polyamory Advocacy Association ("last updated Aug. 2022").
So don't be too quick to assume, as you walk in the door, that you've
finally found your long-sought tribe. Watch out if a group seems to center
on one strong personality and her or his acolytes. Watch out for anyone who
tries to draw you into a faction; they're often guiltier of nasty crap than
the opposing faction. Bad actors often try to turn you against their
legitimate critics before you know any better.
If in doubt, ask around the larger community. It's a good sign if the group
has been running a long time and its people are known and liked. An
excellent sign to watch for is distributed leadership. That
means you see various different people in charge of stuff and an easy and
equal style of discussion and decision-reaching. Cults are bad news.
And when dating, of course, follow sensible safe-dating practices as always.
(For instance.
More.)
---------------------------------------------------------
Can't find a good local poly group? Maybe that's the universe saying you should start it! That's what Meetup.com is for.
Good people will and should be just a bit wary of you as described
above, so make sure to spell out right on Meetup your idea of
good poly, who the group is for, and at least a simple code of
conduct. A standard rule in poly discussion-and-support groups,
learned from experience, is no pickup attempts; the group is for
friendship, support, and community. If friendships evolve to dating,
that happens offline. "Socials" or "parties" may have more relaxed
rules, but ask.
– Here is organizer Kitty Chambliss's Polyamory Guide to Community Building. "So perhaps you’d like to start a community from scratch in your local area. I’m going to give you a roadmap for success to do just that!"
– Here are Joreth's many thoughts on the kinds of poly community events that might work in your area. She's been an organizer for many years and has pretty much done it all.
– Simple, exact details of how to plan and run a good poly gathering for the public: How I run poly picnic discussions, by Andrea Green.
– Prefer audio? From the Polyamory Weekly podcast: Episode #365, Building Your Poly Community with Meetups, and Episode #464, Building Your Poly Community as it grows.
---------------------------------------------------------
All the events are great.... your calendar is full of magic... :)
ReplyDeleteInteresting concept. I have a non geek friend who refers to my triad as "what happens when you marginalize people and leave them alone to long."
ReplyDeleteI just laugh.
Can you publish this as a Google Calendar? It's so much easier to add the calendar and view the events in the context of the rest of my life's schedule. We have a very full Google Calendar feed in the Bay Area that hundreds subscribe to.
ReplyDeleteTo find local poly communities and their get-togethers, you can start by searching online for polyamory groups or events in your area. Websites like Meetup, Facebook, and Eventbrite often have listings for local polyamory groups or events. You can also check out local LGBTQ+ centers or organizations, as they often have resources and events related to polyamory.
ReplyDeleteIf you're comfortable with it, you can also ask friends who are involved in the polyamory community if they know of any local groups or events. When attending events or joining groups, be sure to communicate openly and honestly about your interests and boundaries, and respect the boundaries and privacy of others in the community.