International Mr. Leather (IML) 2026

🖤 International Mr. Leather (IML) 2026

📅 Dates: May 21–25, 2026 

📍 Location: Congress Plaza Hotel, Chicago, Illinois 

What Is International Mr. Leather?

International Mr. Leather is a yearly gathering and competition that celebrates leather, kink, fetish, and BDSM communities. It began in 1979 and has grown into one of the largest leather-subculture events in the world. 

Participants from all over the world come to compete for the IML title. Alongside the main contest, starting in 2026 the weekend will once again include International Mr. Bootblack (IMBB) — highlighting bootblacking artistry as part of the IML weekend. 

What Happens at IML 2026

• A full weekend of leather- and fetish-community events, including the bootblack competition, themed social nights, circuit parties, and the leather market/expo. 
• Educational and community-building aspects: IML often offers panels, social meetups, and opportunities for people to connect across the leather/kink/fetish community. 
• Vendor Market & Leather Expo: a chance to browse gear, leather/fetish wear, and products from vendors around the world. 
• Nightlife, events, and social gatherings — from themed parties to community-driven socials, offering a mix of celebration, connection, and leather culture. 

Why IML Matters

IML is more than a contest — it’s a cornerstone event for the leather community worldwide. It’s a place where people come together to celebrate identity, culture, and community, to support each other, and to preserve leather and fetish heritage. With the return of the Bootblack competition in 2026, IML also continues its tradition of honoring all aspects of the leather lifestyle.