NEOTROPOLIS will return April 29th-May 3rd, 2026
NEOTROPOLIS IS AN ORIGINAL
CYBERPUNK / SCIENCE FICTION WORLD.
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.
Costumes are required. Everyone- staff, performers, vendors, volunteers and attendees- needs to be wearing some kind of in-theme costume, no matter where you are, even in the non-themed areas at the event. We want you to feel like we are all living in the same made-up world. While the event takes place in the future, on another planet, in a far flung corner of the galaxy, elements of Earth culture and technology are heavily present. Check out our Costume Resources page for ideas, tips, and examples of outfits!
As with all of our events, our goal is full immersion for everyone, especially in the Theme Zone.
What is the Theme Zone?
The Theme Zone is the main immersive area. This is where you’ll find fully-themed Factions.
The Theme Zone is home to Megablock One, the Megamall, Kaiju, The Core, the Gaming Dome, and more.
If your Faction wants to bring a fully themed setup, you’ll need to fill out and submit an application to be considered for Theme Zone Placement. (Only Factions who want to be placed in the official Theme Zone need to submit an application.)
Some of our official vendors are included in The Theme Zone. They will need to fill out and submit a vendor application.
Food vendors will not be placed inside the Theme Zone, but will need to fill out and submit a food vendor application.
One big rule about Neotropolis and the Theme Zone is:
NO RECOGNIZABLE CHARACTERS or IP ALLOWED.
What does that mean? It means no 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, Starfleet or Dune uniforms. No Halo armor. No Iron Man.
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 from another planet: Yes (but with some restrictions)
Robots and droids: Yes, but no R2D2 or C3Po
Oversized brightly colored mascot suits and masks: No
Big Futuristic Corporations: Yes
Gritty Street Level Gangers: Yes
Darth Vader: No
Lasers/phasers/Plasma guns (energy weapons): Yes
Bullets: Yes, but we mean props (no actual firearms or projectiles are ever allowed)
Space Suits / Mecha / Robot Suits etc.: Yes
Pointy Ears: Yes, BUT, no Elves, Vampires, or Orcs
Beyond that, use your imagination. Have some fun. Add to the vibe. Be a part of this immersive world.
What are Factions?
Neotropolis encourages participants to join with their friends and campmates and form “Factions” with a unique theme and focus (similar to the “Tribes” at our Wasteland Weekend event). A Faction is a group of people (or individuals) with a shared concept, identity, and story. People who have come together, and go all-out with coordinated costumes, themed camps/vehicles, and maybe even a logo or faction I.D. cards.
Interactivity is always a goal to keep in mind, but even if you’re just starting off with a few friends in similar styled costumes, it’s a fun and easy basis for a year-one faction. Factions can be just you and a few friends, a large group of people you’ve met online, or just an individual. It’s up to you. Factions could even form alliances and rivalries, opening up a whole range of interaction and games.
If your Faction is prepared to bring a fully-themed setup and wants to be placed in the Theme Zone, you'll need to fill out a Theme Zone application (which you’ll find at the bottom of this page when they’re live). Your idea could be as big as you’d like! Some Factions can take up half a block along the Main Drag, but some prefer more intimate spaces like modules.
All structures may be subject to inspection for safety by staff.
theme zone Areas Factions can apply to be in:
MAIN DRAG (stand-alone camps)
The Main Drag is the main street of Neotropolis.
Factions should have themed frontage on at least 1 side of planned camp. Can have placements on either side of the street.
MEGABLOCK ONE
multi-level area where small, fully themed Factions can take over pre-built module spaces. Compact, interactive spaces with their own unique vibe and experience. Megablock One is the largest structure along the Main Drag.
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 alongside our actual vendors. These will be pre-built module spaces.
If you would like to apply to be an official vendor (actually selling goods for real money), please apply via the VENDORS page.
KAIJU
Nightclub.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.
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 MODULES?
Modules are small scaffolding bays constructed by our build team inside the Theme Zone. Factions applying for module placement will need to decorate and theme their module themselves, as they do not come pre-decorated. The idea is to use your module as an interactive space for people to visit and experience your offerings. Your module does not need to be open 24/7 during the event, but we do expect it to be open most of the time. If you are approved for Theme Zone placement (including modules), you will also need to fill out and submit a power application. This will allow Factions access to free, event-provided power.
Most modules are single-story, 10 feet wide by 10 feet deep with a ceiling 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 MAXIMUM height for modules, but some may have more height clearance depending on placement.
Other module sizes MAY be possible by special request.
Some modules inside Megablock One have the option of a two-story or second-story space, but these are limited.
At this time, Megamall and Kaiju do not have two-story or second-story module spaces.
Factions applying for module space inside Megablock One, the Megamall, or Kaiju, will need to let us know what size module want.
Faction Ideas
Here are some ideas that have been part of previous Neotropolis events. These could be big stand-alone builds along the Main Drag area, or smaller module type spaces found in Megablock One, the Megamall, and Kaiju:
Faux tea shops: Event rules (and county health rules) mean that you can’t actually give out food or drink to general attendees (just your friends and campmates) but people have still created great atmospheric spaces with the LOOK of a tea shop, even if the public can’t actually eat and drink there.
Electronics Repair: Every cyberpunk city needs multiple places where people can keep their various tech devices in good working order, often with scavenged parts and less-than-legal means. And maybe some ACTUAL repairs get done once in a while too.
Neo-Religious Organization/Cult: REAL religion isn’t something we want to have at the event, but faux cults and made up religious movements can be interesting. (But please, no Earth-based clergy like popes or nuns.)
Barter-based swap shop: Maybe you can’t sell things for real currency or real electronic payments (unless you’re an approved vendor), but you sure as hell can barter! Bartering bazaars spring up organically on the main drag during the daytime, and there are multiple shops and modules that exchange a wide variety of products on the barter system. (Just know that you CANNOT barter food or drinks, which includes bottles of water or packaged snacks.)
Nightclub: Does your group want to go big and hard? Think about what a nightclub on a far-flung desert outpost planet would look like. Would there be a robots-only dance floor? Maybe a mech-parking only spot out front? Perhaps you have a fancy bar area you’d like to set up for your friends and campmates. (But please remember, any planned use of amplification for sound or entertainment needs to be mentioned in your application, and must be approved by senior staff.)
Arms Dealers: Trade, barter, or both. (But no selling for real-world money! If you would like to do that, you’ll need to apply to be an official vendor.)
Gallery or Cabinet of Curiosities: Small museums are a great way to have people explore the interesting things you’ve brought from off-planet, or cool futuristic black-light paintings. Put up informational placards in your space or give guided tours.
Enhancement Center: Think back alley cyber augmentations. No actual surgery please. And no use of the word “medical,” “hospital,” or symbols like red crosses, those are strictly off limits for anyone other than our actual on duty Medical team.
Game Room: A variety of video game and other types of game parlors have sprung up in the city.
Sensory Experience: VR setups and other sensory modules have been created to help people relax or escape the harsh reality of the Neotropolis dystopia.
Corporate Recruitment Office: Helix Corp may be the biggest, richest company in the galaxy, but they’re not the only game in town. Many other corporations are looking for recruits. Just don’t fall for any pyramid schemes…
Hacker Coalition: Gritty, back-alley gatherings, missions against the mega-corps, modern robin-hood freedom fighters with a keyboard. Fight the system!
Entertainment Module: Variety acts, performances, live shows, etc. Keep in mind that amplified sound will be restricted, especially within the smaller city blocks. Pitch an idea! The more polished the better - just keep it IN THEME. (Again, any planned use of amplification for sound or entertainment needs to be mentioned in your application, and must be approved by senior staff.)
If you 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 FAQs:
Can I have a band, DJ, or karaoke performance area in my Faction or module Theme Zone space?
Some Theme Zone Factions are allowed to have DJs or other performances in their space, BUT, they must be approved. When you submit your Faction application, you need to explain what it is you’d like to do sound-wise, and the Faction Team will let you know if that’s okay or not. For the most part, attendees are not allowed to bring their own sound systems, in either the Theme Zone or in General Camping. You can read our full SOUND and VOLUME POLICY here.
Do I need to join a Faction, or can I just attend the event solo?
Come solo, with a few friends, or whatever suits you. Joining a Faction can make the experience more enriching, and be a great benefit to groups with with cohesive ideas and vision. Faction membership is absolutely not a requirement for attending the event. If you’re interested in joining an existing Faction, check out our Facebook group Neotropolis Faction Recruitment (OFFICIAL) which is our recruitment depot for Neotropolis Factions, and/or our general Facebook group for the event, Neotropolis Central.
How do I form a Faction?
You may already be planning to attend the event with a group of friends. Start there. Think about your vision of a cyberpunk futuristic world, and how you might survive in it. Movies, comics, video games, all shape how we view futuristic worlds. A brainstorming session is the perfect beginning. Be sure to review our rules about not using any existing IP (no “Star Wars,” no “Blade Runner,” etc.).
Do we need to register our Faction?
No, you are free to form a Faction and attend Neotropolis without registering your Faction or applying for Theme Zone placement.
But you’ll still have to follow all event rules, including costume guidelines, and our no recognizable / existing IP rule.
No application, no paperwork; just form your own, or join an existing Faction.
Get your tickets, put together a costume, find a place to camp in General Camping, and do your thing.
What is the deadline to apply as a Faction?
We’ll update with the date as soon as applications for 2027’s event are live.
How do we get our Faction placed in Megablock One, Megamall, Kaiju, or other Theme Zone areas?
Fill out a Theme Zone Application, and tell us a little about what you have planned. Want to camp next to other Factions with a common theme? Let us know in your application!
Can Factions arrive early to set up at Neotropolis?
Factions do not automatically receive Early Access to the event. Factions that have applied for and been approved for Theme Zone placement are eligible for Early Access, in order to set up their camps before the event opens to the public on Wednesday morning at 7am. Factions that have not been approved for Theme Zone can arrive with the general ticketed public on Wednesday of the event at 7am. (Find out more about Event Entry Etiquette here.)
Is there a fee for Factions?
Nope. No extra fees or charges.
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.
Here are some examples of themed Faction spaces in modules:
APPLYING FOR Theme Zone PLACEMENT:
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 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 application 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.
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!