Melissa Menzinger
Audio By Carbonatix
Arizona’s biggest steampunk gathering is gearing up for one last ride into the sunset.
Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention, the long-running Tucson-based event dedicated to the retro-futuristic fandom, announced earlier this week its 2026’s edition next month will be its last.
Founded in 2011, the convention has been a fixture of Arizona’s steampunk scene for more than a decade, drawing attendees from across the Southwest for panels, performances and elaborate cosplay.
The final Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention takes place March 19 to 22 at Tucson’s Westward Look Resort.
On Monday, owners Jason and Deena Jo Drotman stated on social media their decision to end the event wasn’t an easy one.
“We do want to be clear that there was no single event or reason that brought us to this decision,” the Drotmans wrote in a statement. “It’s a recognition that the level of care, time and real effort this convention deserves is no longer something we can sustainably carry year after year.”
Melissa Menzinger
Arizona’s longest-running steampunk event
Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention launched in 2011 by Tucson resident Ryan McMann and became a hub for the retro-futuristic fandom in Arizona.
Early editions were held at Old Tucson Studios, the historic attraction and film set that provided a natural Wild West backdrop for the event. The convention moved to Tucson hotels due to the pandemic shutting down Old Tucson.
Wild Wild West became known for its themed programming, special guests and emphasis on attendee participation.
The con was sold to the Drotmans in 2020.
Melissa Fossum
A ‘grand finale’ and not a ‘quiet goodbye’
The couple stated in Monday’s social media post that Wild Wild West’s 2026 edition will proceed as planned with a full schedule of programming.
Additional details about programming for the 2026 event are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
The con’s final year will not be treated as a reduced or transitional event, the couple stated.
“WWWC is a celebration. A grand finale. A last ride,” they wrote. “Our wonderful team is working together and pouring everything we have into making this the strongest, most joyful, most memorable WWWC ever.”
