Bear Jamboree 2026
- June 4-8, 2026
- Orlando, FL
- Details
Bear Jamboree 2026 is set to turn Orlando into a playground for the bear community from June 4 through June 8, 2026. At its core this event celebrates body positivity and camaraderie among men who identify with the bear subculture, yet it is open and welcoming to anyone who appreciates a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. The 2026 edition will take over the Crowne Plaza Orlando – Lake Buena Vista near Walt Disney World. Organisers have confirmed that the host hotel offers discounted room packages so that attendees can stay where the action is, and the resort’s pool deck and common areas will be transformed into social hubs for pool parties, cocktail mixers and other communal gatherings.
A typical day at Bear Jamboree begins around midday with a laid‑back pool party at the host hotel. DJs spin a mix of dance classics and contemporary house while guests sunbathe and mingle. Food and drink stations set up around the pool serve casual fare and themed cocktails so participants can refuel without missing any of the fun. As afternoon turns into evening the schedule shifts to bigger parties at nearby venues. Previous editions of the event have included themed dance parties such as a leather night, a neon‑glow party and a throwback event that plays hits from the 1980s and 1990s. Organisers have hinted that 2026 will introduce a beach‑themed party and a disco‑revival night to pay homage to the earliest days of bear culture. Each evening event will run until the early hours, and shuttle transport between the hotel and off‑site venues makes it easy to attend multiple parties without relying on rideshares.
In between the high‑energy parties, Bear Jamboree offers a variety of daytime activities that encourage connection beyond the dance floor. The vendor market showcases small businesses and artisans who cater to the bear community, from leather craftspeople and T‑shirt designers to artists selling prints that celebrate body diversity. Seminars and workshops are planned that address topics such as health and wellness, confidence, relationships and navigating online communities. A charity bingo session will raise funds for local lgbtq+Q+ organisations, continuing a tradition of philanthropy that is central to the event. Past attendees have often said that these quieter moments, where one can engage in honest conversations and support one another, are just as memorable as the dance parties.
The 2026 schedule also includes excursions to some of Orlando’s best‑known attractions. Because Bear Jamboree coincides with One Magical Weekend – the annual lgbtq+Q+ celebration at Walt Disney World – many guests purchase combined passes that include admission to theme park meet‑ups. On one day participants will gather at EPCOT to explore the park together, ride attractions and take group photos. Another day features a trip to a local water park where the group can enjoy slides and wave pools in a relaxed, body‑positive environment. Those who prefer something quieter might join a brewery tour or a visit to the nearby arts district. Organisers emphasize that all off‑site activities are optional: attendees are welcome to spend the entire weekend at the hotel, attend only the parties that interest them or create their own itinerary.
What sets Bear Jamboree apart from similar gatherings is its sense of community and acceptance. Many people attend year after year because they know they will be surrounded by friends and allies, whether they are first‑time visitors or seasoned regulars. Social media groups active throughout the year help newcomers connect with others before they arrive, easing the nerves that sometimes accompany attending an event for the first time. Volunteers and staff members are available on site to answer questions and ensure that everyone feels welcome. Safety is also a priority; the host hotel provides on‑site security, and event organisers coordinate with local authorities to keep participants informed about travel advisories and city ordinances.
Registration for Bear Jamboree 2026 is open through the official website. Weekend passes grant access to all scheduled parties and the vendor market, while individual tickets are available for specific events. Those planning to stay at the Crowne Plaza are encouraged to book early because the block of discounted rooms tends to sell out quickly. While the event itself is not all‑inclusive – guests are responsible for their own meals and additional entertainment – many choose to arrive a day or two early or stay after the event ends to explore Orlando’s other attractions. The timing at the beginning of June coincides with the start of summer vacations in the United States, making it an ideal excuse to combine a social gathering with a broader holiday.
As of December 2025, available listings confirm that Bear Jamboree 2026 will run from June 4 to June 8 at the Crowne Plaza Orlando – Lake Buena Vista. The official event website promises more detailed announcements about performers, party themes and daytime excursions in early 2026, so prospective attendees should check back regularly. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of bear events or curious about experiencing the culture for the first time, Bear Jamboree 2026 offers a packed schedule of social events, entertainment and opportunities to build lasting friendships in one of Florida’s most vibrant cities.
Official Website: https://www.bearjamboree.com