Fandom Con, one of Northern Ireland's leading gaming conventions specifically designed for and organised by individuals with autism and neurodiverse conditions, is set to return for its fourth year on Saturday 23rd May at ICC Belfast, with over 2,000 attendees expected from across the island of Ireland. Located just two hours from Dublin, the event is expected to attract visitors from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Following the overwhelming success and demand in 2025, this year Fandom Con is returning to the ICC Belfast. Organised by participants from NOW Group, a social enterprise supporting people who are autistic, neurodivergent or have learning difficulties into employment, the event aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive space where like-minded individuals can come together, celebrate their passion for gaming and connect with others who can benefit from NOW Group services and social groups. The event has grown significantly since its inception, expanding from a small community group of over 90 members to more than 1,200 attendees in previous years, with numbers expected to exceed 2,000 in 2026.
Designed as an accessible and welcoming experience, Fandom Con is also positioned as a viable day trip for audiences across the Republic of Ireland. With Belfast easily reachable by car, bus and rail, the event offers a unique opportunity for attendees travelling from Dublin, border counties and further afield, including Galway, to take part in a community-led convention built specifically for neurodivergent individuals.
"Fandom Con has grown tremendously over the past three years and we are so excited to return in 2026, bigger and better." said Lynda Millar, Social Group Facilitator at NOW Group. “The community response has been incredible, and returning to the ICC Belfast is allowing us to
and continuing to build an inclusive space where people can connect, play and celebrate who they are.
”The concept for the convention came from ‘Fandom’, a social forum originally created by NOW Group, a social enterprise supporting people across Ireland, who are neurodiverse, autistic, have ADHD or a learning difficulty into jobs with a future.
Chris Campbell, Founder, Fandom says, “To me Fandom is important because it gives people on the spectrum an opportunity to meet people with similar interests in a friendly supportive environment, where they might not have the same confidence to do the same on their own. There are few services out there for adults with autism so to be able to provide one on a weekly basis all year round is extremely important to help build up relationships, give them a routine and let members gradually open up to become more assertive and confident in themselves. Fandom-Con lets us take what Fandom is and showcase the activities we do in a larger format to the public, that will also let those with autism know that there are services out there to support them.”
Founded on the principles of inclusivity, community and empowerment, this year’s event will continue to create a dynamic, inclusive space for everyone by featuring a wide range of activities, from interactive gaming stations and cosplay competitions to tournaments, sensory-friendly areas and much more. It’s a place where voices are heard, talents are celebrated, and meaningful connections are formed. The event is specifically designed to address challenges often faced by neurodivergent individuals at large-scale events, including sensory overload, lack of structure and social barriers.
Fandom Con has been funded by the NOW Group with support from The National Lottery Community Fund.
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