About The Symposium

In 2022 the doors looked to be closing forever on the dandiest Steampunk weekend event in Cincinnati, Ohio. That is, until a plucky Steampunk Captain decided to try her skills at running a convention. With the help of a stellar Symposium crew, many enthusiastic guests, volunteers and creatives, this annual Steampunk celebration “Under the Big Top” is sure to be the best one yet!

Founded in 2012, The International Steampunk Symposium is an annual three day festival in Cincinnati, Ohio. The weekend’s programming includes workshops, music, entertainment, exhibits, an eclectic vendor hall, and our signature event…The Steampunk Olympiad.

The Steampunk Olympiad is a series of competitions throughout the weekend that marry creativity and skill. There really is something for everyone including Nerf gun duels, Penny Farthing races, The Iron Tailor, Tea dueling, bocce ball and so much more. Games and rules are announced early so players can start building props and honing their skills for competitions.

Since 2014, the Steampunk Symposium has partnered with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) to help them increase awareness and stop the stigma of mental illness. All ticket sales for the Olympiad games goes to support this wonderful organization, and the fact that anyone can participate in the games mirrors the inclusivity that we want to see in the world.

Make sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss this great event! This is YOUR circus and YOUR monkeys!