NEOTROPOLIS will return April 29th-May 3rd, 2026
Tickets are on sale now.
NEOTROPOLIS IS AN ORIGINAL
CYBERPUNK / SCIENCE FICTION WORLD.
This is a sci-fi and cyber themed event. It takes place in the future, on another planet, in a far flung corner of the galaxy, but some elements of Earth culture and technology are heavily present.
COSTUMES
Costumes are required at all times during the event, no matter where you are, even in the non-themed zones.
Check out our Costume Resources page for ideas!
As with all of our events, our goal is IMMERSION. We want you to feel like we are all living in the same made-up world. However, since this is a world where different planets and technologies have been cobbled together, there will certainly be some stark differences in peoples’ looks.
The one hard and fast rule we have is: NO RECOGNIZABLE CHARACTERS.
What does that mean? It means no obvious characters from a particular movie, book, comic, game, etc.. No Darth Vader. No Deckard from Blade Runner. No anime-character-that-people-will-recognize. The emphasis here is on ORIGINAL characters. So no Stormtroopers, Mandalorians, or Starfleet, or recognizable Dune uniforms either. That said, if you want to take inspiration here and there from known properties for your outfit, or even do a full cosplay of a character that fits our theme but isn’t recognizable (except maybe to a select few hardcore fans), that should be fine.
In the meantime, here is a quick reference list of themes that would be acceptable. This obviously doesn't cover EVERY Sci-Fi movie/book/game, but it's a start. So if you're just needing a little direction, we’ll say this:
Space Travel: Yes
Cybernetics: Yes
Netrunning: Yes
Supernatural (ghosts, cryptids): No
Mutants and genetically engineered things: Yes
Aliens: Yes (but with some restrictions)
Robots: Yes
Oversized brightly colored mascot suits and masks: No
Big Futuristic Corporations: Yes
Gritty Street Level Gangers: Yes
Lasers/phasers/Plasma guns (ie. Sci-fi energy weapons): Yes
Bullets: Yes, but we mean props. No actual firearms or projectiles are ever allowed
Space Suits/Mecha/Robot Suits etc.: Yes.
Darth Vader: No
Pointy Ears: Yes, BUT, no Elves, Vampires, or Orcs please.
Neotropolis does not knowingly use any generative AI for its official art, photos, videos, music & audio, or text.
We actively discourage the use of any AI that has algorithms fed by real artists, writers, musicians, and other creatives without their permission.
This is a DESERT planet. It’s also a far flung outpost.
There will be a certain amount of dirt, a certain amount of distressing to outfits.
No, it’s not Wasteland Weekend and not everything needs to be post-apocalyptic style and have “more dirt,” but some weathering will definitely help make it feel like you’ve been on this dirty planet at the end of the universe for more than a few days.
Beyond that, use your imagination. Have some fun. Add to the vibe. Be a part of this immersive world.
VEHICLES &
Grid Rider Permits
You may bring ordinary, non-themed vehicles to the event and park them in the general parking area, or at your camp if you are in the general non-themed camping areas. However, for any vehicle to park in or even enter the official Theme Zone, it must be appropriately themed, and have one of our special GRID RIDER permits.
To get your Grid Rider Permit at NEO 2025, please come to the Command Center to request a review.
If it's a bike or motorcycle, you can park it temporarily just outside Megablock One (out of the way).
If it's a car or truck, please leave it just outside the Theme Zone, walk to the Command Center, request your review, and we will come evaluate.
[Mobility devices FOR THE DISABLED are always allowed in all areas. Theming for these devices is optional. If the mobility device is not for the disabled, then yes, GRID RIDER permits are required for themed vehicles to drive in and around the official Theme Zone.]
To learn more about GRID RIDER permits, read HERE.
THE THEME ZONE
The Theme Zone is an immersive area for pre-approved, fully-themed Factions.
If your Faction is prepared to bring a fully themed setup and wants to be in the thick of it, this is the place for you.
Only Factions who want to be placed in the official Theme Zone need to apply.
You can still be a Faction by creating a camp located outside the official Theme Zone. We have a large area for open camping where theme rules don't apply (except for costumes of course), and interactive features are still encouraged!
THEME ZONE / FACTIONS APPLICATIONS closed for this year.
You can find the application at the bottom of the page.
Neotropolis is set on a far-off world, in a high-tech city that is home to desert dwellers, criminals, corporations, and travelers from across the galaxy. Some of the city still thrives. Some of it isn’t much more than a ruin of shanty towns and encampments. Neotropolis emphasizes a compressed layout for an urban cyberpunk aesthetic.
The Theme Zone is home to a range of faction camps, encompassing Megablock One, Main Drag stalls and structures, and more.
Official vendors (including food) are also included in The Theme Zone.
MEGABLOCK ONE
is a multi-level city where small, fully themed camps can reside. Compact, interactive spaces with their own unique vibe and experience. Megablock One is the largest mini-city, encompassing a wide range of factions and residents. You can see some examples of Megablock One module styles farther down this page.
MEGAMALL
If you are a Faction that has a retail-style presentation (not really selling anything, but looking like a shop or café, for example), we may consider placing you in the Megamall along side our actual vendors. If you would like to apply to be an official vendor (actually selling goods for real money), please apply via the VENDORS page.
KAIJU
There are a very limited amount of available modules inside Kaiju.
These will likely go to people who have an existing relationship with that Faction.
MAIN DRAG FACTIONS (stand-alone camps)
The Main Drag is the main street of Neotropolis, with factions of various sizes along each side.
Generally, they have themed frontage right up against the street edge and are tight up against other factions on either side.
OTHER THEME ZONE FACTIONS (stand-alone camps)
Away from the Main Drag, Faction encampments are more free-standing and are not necessarily immediately next to their neighbor, and therefore have multiple themed sides.
What are theme zome MODULES?
If you’re creating your own structures and Faction camp, it can be (just about) any size you want.
BUT, for those applying for module space inside Megablock One, the Mega Mall, or Kaiju, you will let us know what size module you have in mind.
Modules are usually 10 feet wide by 10 feet deep with a height of 6 foot 4, or 10 feet wide by 5 feet deep with a ceiling height of 6 foot 4.
(6’4” is the minimum height for modules but some may have more height clearance depending on placement).
Other module sizes MAY be possible by special request.
Very large structures may be subject to inspection for safety by staff.
For the most part, these preset modules do not come decorated in any way. It’s basically a scaffolding “bay” for you to set up in and attach decor to. This allows each Faction to customize their own look and theme. You can use your module as an interactive space, but you must camp (sleep) elsewhere. The idea is that visitors to the Megablock will be looking at your module, while exploring other themed areas.
Modules are meant as an interactive space, not a private one.
Megablock One has an outer wall, acting as a windbreak for the modules inside, and it has shade provided by a roof as well (not to mention free power!). There is also the opportunity for some limited access to the upper floor.
Here are some examples of themed Faction spaces in modules:
APPLYING FOR Theme Zone PLACEMENT
AS A FACTION:
Applications for 2026 are closed.
Need some guidance or want to know if what you have planned would be appropriate for the event?
Feel free to message our Faction Team.
Faction / Theme Zone POWER AND LIGHTING:
Neotropolis is a city that comes alive at night, with streets lit by flickering overhead lights and the glow of neon.
Whether you’re creating your own stand-alone camp, or living in the city, lighting makes all the difference.
More information about event-provided power for Theme Zone Factions will be sent directly to those who apply.
pre-event Early ACCESS:
Factions that are approved for placement in the Theme Zone (you will be notified after your application is reviewed by staff) may be eligible for pre-event Early Access Passes (EAs). These extremely limited EAs are specifically to allow active building of approved Faction spaces in the days before the event officially begins. Those with EAs must follow any/all event rules that apply. You cannot land-grab camping for others within your group who are coming later.
No photos or videos of pre-event builds including Faction spaces and official event builds can be posted anywhere on social media.
Failure to comply may result in future EAs or even Theme Zone placement being revoked.
EAs can be requested within the Theme Zone application.
THEME ZONE FAQ
Q: What are the visual/theme requirements for Faction placement?
A fully-themed camp covers every visual aspect. What’s the first thing people see as they approach your camp? Is there signage that identifies your Faction and what it’s all about? Nighttime lighting, signage, and interactivity with visitors is encouraged. Neotropolis is very much a nocturnal event, so attention to lighting is appreciated.
Q: What other criteria goes into the approval process?
· Interactivity is key. What experience are you offering? What are you bringing to add the richness of Neotropolis? This doesn’t necessarily mean just activities, even a museum or gallery-style setup that gives people interesting things to look at can be considered interactive. Willingness to work with Neotropolis staff and a positive attitude go a long way. Be willing to adapt to changes, and roll with the unexpected.
Q: When is the deadline to apply?
Midnight (Pacific) on January 13th, 2026.
Q: Is power provided to attendees?
Yes and no. Most of those who are approved for reserved placement within the Theme Zone will be provided complimentary power by the event, including all module spaces. Event-provided complimentary power is not available outside of the Theme Zone.
Q: My friends and I have this really crazy idea and we’re not sure if it fits in with the theme. Can we still bring it?
Pitch your idea to our Factions Team, and we’ll see what we can do.
Q: Can I attach lights and decorations to the structure of my module?
Magnets are going to be your best friends. Velcro cable ties are great for cord management and attaching things. Screwing or bolting to the structure is prohibited. Clamps are sometimes allowed depending on type. If your design requires mounting heavier objects, please indicate it in your Faction application. It’s possible we may be able to help with that, or at least with some advice.
Q: Is there a noise curfew?
Neotropolis is very much a nocturnal event so we do not have a strict time for all noise to end.
However, there are volume restrictions, and strict limitations on amplified sound, which you can read about in our SOUND and VOLUME POLICY here.
And we do expect the loud noises to get a lot quieter very late at night (like after 3am).
Q: What if we’re bringing something amazing that takes more than one day to set up?
All the more power to you. We love seeing factions take the initiative, go the extra mile, and raise the bar. Please mention this in your application as we’re always up to grant a little extra setup time to factions that truly bring something epic.
(This relates to EA passes mentioned above.)
Q: What if we want to create a Faction, but don't have a theme space?
Not all Factions need to apply as you can still be a faction by joining with some of your friends and creating a camp (and interactive features are encouraged!). We have a large area for open camping where theme rules don't generally apply (other than costumes). Need some guidance or want to know if what you have planned would be appropriate for the event? Feel free to message our Factions Team.
Q: My Faction wants to vend at Neotropolis. Do we need to fill out a Faction application or a Vendor application?
YES. Anyone, Faction or not, who wants to vend (i.e. sell items for real money or sell or give out food and drink to the public, not just their friends) will need to fill out a separate VENDOR’S APPLICATION (see more about vending at our VENDORS PAGE).
Q: What if our camp isn’t done yet?
There’s always going to be things you envisioned that you won’t have time or resources to complete prior to applying. We get it. Put in your application anyway, and create a social media or web page where you can post updated pics of your build and lighting, so when we review your app, we can see exactly where you are in your overall build. You’ve got nothing to lose, and an amazing future to gain.
Neotropolis awaits.