World Fantasy Convention 2026

The World Fantasy Awards are given each year by the World Fantasy Convention for the best fantasy fiction published in English during the previous calendar year. The awards have been described by book critics such as The Guardian as a "prestigious fantasy prize", and one of the three most prestigious speculative fiction awards, along with the Hugo and Nebula Awards (which cover both fantasy and science fiction). The World Fantasy Convention Award is a special award given in some years for "peerless contributions to the fantasy genre".

Language

English

Genres

dark fantasy, horror

Founded

1978

Duration (days)

4

Next edition

22–25 Oct 2026

Author participation

Professional/semi-pro fantasy focus.

Audience

Most World Fantasy Award nominees and winners are decided by attendees and judges of the annual World Fantasy Convention.

Accessibility

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Language notes

Listed working language: English

Genre notes

Primary focus: dark fantasy; Also listed: horror

Programme

A ballot is posted in June for attendees of the current and previous two conferences to determine two of the finalists, and a panel of five judges adds three or more nominees before voting on the overall winner.

Awards

The World Fantasy Awards are given each year by the World Fantasy Convention for the best fantasy fiction published in English during the previous calendar year.

Past editions

1978, 1987, 1989, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2013, 2015

Festival site