BiCon is a weekend-long gathering for bisexual people, their friends, partners and others with a supportive interest in bisexuality. We don’t all use the labels “bi” or “bisexual” or even agree on what it means to be bi, but bisexuality is the common theme. A typical BiCon might have 250 participants, of which about 60 are at BiCon for the first time.

BiCon usually uses a university venue, not because it’s an academic event but because it’s cheap, welcoming and generally more accessible than other venues. You won’t find a flat screen TV in your bedroom, but you’ll be able to make your own meals (or order your own take-out!).

What happens during BiCon?

BiCon usually runs from Thursday to Sunday. Daytimes are generally filled with workshops: discussion groups and fun sessions, and then there’s social space and entertainment in the evening on all but the last day. There are usually between four and six different sessions happening at once, each lasting around 75 minutes, so there’s plenty to choose from. Having got your pass (one-day or whole event), you’re free to attend as much or as little as you like.

Some discussions cover bi-related themes, e.g. coming out, our experiences of the lesbian and gay communities, and lots with a title like “Bisexuality and X”. Other topics have ranged from parenting to Live Action Cluedo. Some sessions are more academic in nature or cover sexual health issues, and some are action more than talk: some popular ones from recent years include the relaxing peer massage or the very silly Strap-On Shakespeare.

Each evening there’s a bar and social space, with performers, a band or a DJ, plus quieter space for chatting, reading, knitting, playing board games or simply chilling out. If you like to dress up, bring your party clothes, or you can just rock up in jeans – it’s up to you!

What do I wear? Or: Who are these people in strange clothes?!

One of the wonderful things about BiCon is that it’s a very non-judgemental place when it comes to dressing up. Leather, latex, purple velvet, corsets, drag and sparkly things are all entirely normal – especially in the evenings!

Sometimes it’s easy to get the impression that these dressed-up people are of a different species, far cooler than we’ll ever be, but they’re mostly entirely lovely and normal! For example, one of 2013’s team members has fond memories of being taught to walk in high heels by a gentleman in a stunning corset at her first BiCon.

Of course, you’ll also see plenty of people in their favourite ordinary comfy clothes, especially in the daytime, but even on the dance floor. We’ll welcome you however you’re most comfortable, whether it be in a ballgown or jeans.

How do I book? Can I just turn up?

If you want to come along for the whole event and to stay in the on-site accommodation, you must book in advance. But if you’re only a short journey away or want to stay locally offsite, then you’re welcome to just turn up. You can buy non-residential passes or day passes at any time including at BiCon itself. Day tickets cover all the activities in a particular day including the evening entertainments.

If I book a place, do I get an information pack?

Once we receive your booking you’ll get an acknowledgement within 30 days and be added to our mailing list for important information and updates. You will also receive an information booklet about two weeks before the event. This contains practical details about the venue, directions, and the all important BiCon Code of Conduct which ensures that BiCon remains a safe and tolerant space for everyone who attends.

How do I find out more?

There’s a wealth of community information at Bi Community News, and The Bisexual Index offers a lot of great resources about bisexuality in general. We’ll also have more information on this website has time passes, or you can contact us using the page above.