Upcoming Magic Festivals & Conventions 2026

Magic fans, mark your calendars! From intimate conventions to the Olympics of Magic, the next two years are full of incredible opportunities to meet fellow magicians, learn from the best, and witness unforgettable performances. Here’s a quick guide to the most exciting events on the horizon:

MagiFest

January 22–24, 2026 | Columbus, Ohio, USA MagiFest is one of the oldest magic conventions in the U.S., with roots going back nearly a century. Organized by Vanishing Inc., it’s known for being warm, accessible, and community-driven.

For Whom:
Hobbyists, serious learners, and professionals looking for a friendly atmosphere without being overwhelmed.

Pros:

• Intimate setting with easy access to top magicians
• Excellent lectures and workshops
• Affordable compared to larger conventions

Cons:

• Smaller scale than Blackpool or MAGIC Live
• Limited dealer’s hall compared to mega-conventions

Highlight:
Late-night jam sessions in the hotel lobby — spontaneous, informal, and often the best part of the weekend!

To Perform:
While there’s no public form, featured performers and speakers are typically selected by the organisers. Consider reaching out via their contact channels or through Vanishing Inc. directly to express your interest.

 

Blackpool Magic Convention

February 19–22, 2026 | Blackpool, EnglandBlackpool Magic Convention - the world’s largest magic convention, held annually since 1953. It attracts more than 3,500 magicians worldwide.

For Whom:
Collectors, stage and close-up performers, magic dealers, and anyone who wants to experience the biggest magic marketplace in the world.

Pros:

• Massive dealer’s hall (hundreds of stands)
• Huge variety of lectures, shows, and gala events
• International networking opportunities

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming and crowded
• Less personal than smaller conventions

Highlight:
The Gala Shows at the historic Winter Gardens are legendary — some of the biggest spectacles in the magic world.

To Perform:
The Blackpool Magic Club handles programming. For performing opportunities, your best approach is to contact them through their official site or FAQ contact form for guest artist inquiries.

 

Edinburgh International MagicFest

Early July 2026 (TBD) | Edinburgh, ScotlandEdinburgh International MagicFest - not just a convention, but a city-wide magic festival blending illusion with theater, culture, and art.

For Whom:
Families, casual magic fans, and magicians who enjoy artistic and theatrical presentations of magic.

Pros:

• Unique mix of theater and street magic
• Beautiful venues across Edinburgh
• Appeals to a broad audience

Cons:

• Less technical focus for magicians
• Fewer opportunities for in-depth lectures/workshops

Highlight:
The festival atmosphere — magic performances unfold across iconic Edinburgh venues, turning the city into a stage.

To Perform:
This festival is typically curated by the organizing team. While no submission form exists publicly, emailing the festival organizers (often listed on their info page) with your proposal is recommended.

 

IBM Convention (International Brotherhood of Magicians)

July 21–25, 2026 | St. Louis, Missouri, USA

IBM Convention - the annual convention of the world’s largest magic organization, focused on competitions, education, and community.

For Whom:
IBM members, young magicians, and anyone who values competition and structure.

Pros:

• Prestigious competitions (Gold Cups, Stage & Close-up)
• Educational lectures and workshops
• Strong sense of community

Cons:

• Primarily aimed at IBM members
• Smaller scale than Blackpool or MAGIC Live

Highlight:
The IBM Gold Cups competitions — winning here is a respected milestone in a magician’s career.

To Perform:
Performer slots often go to IBM members. Reach out to your local IBM Ring or the convention's planning committee for submission and competition entry details.

 

MAGIC Live!

August 2026 (TBD) | Las Vegas, USAMAGIC Live! - a modern, creative, and surprise-filled convention known for its innovative programming and high production values.

For Whom:
Professionals, semi-pros, and serious hobbyists looking for inspiration and cutting-edge performances.

Pros:

• Unique, surprise-based programming
• High quality of shows and lectures
• Strong focus on innovation and creativity

Cons:

• Expensive and sells out quickly
• Less beginner-friendly

Highlight:
The element of surprise — attendees often don’t know the lineup until the show begins, adding mystery to the magic.

To Perform:
Performer arrangements are typically handled directly by the producers and headliners. Expressing your interest via email or through performer submissions on official sites may be effective when dates and details are announced.

 

FISM World Championship of Magic

July 9–14, 2028 | Busan, South KoreaFISM World Championship of Magic - the Olympics of Magic, held every three years. Competitors from all over the world perform for the chance to become World Champion.

For Whom:
Professional magicians, competitors, and enthusiasts seeking the highest level of artistry in magic.

Pros:

• The most prestigious magic competition in the world
• Unparalleled international networking
• History-making performances

Cons:

• Only held every 3 years
• Travel and participation costs can be high
• Competition-heavy atmosphere

Highlight:
Winning FISM can change a magician’s career forever — it’s the ultimate global stage.

To Perform:
FISM is competition-based—magicians must apply to compete. Look for contestant applications on the official FISM site as the event approaches.