MACC 2026 Winter Executive Board Meeting
2026-01-07 19:00 - 20:00 UTC
You’re invited to join our next MACC Executive Board Meeting on Wednesday, January 7, from 7:00 – 8:00 PM (Central Time). This virtual meeting is an important opportunity for us to review club business, discuss upcoming initiatives, and continue planning for the exciting events ahead.

🗓 Date: Wednesday, January 7th
⏰ Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM (America/Chicago)

MACC 2026 Winter Meeting
2026-01-13 19:00 - 20:00
The Mid-America Conference of Clubs (MACC), established in 1974, serves as an informational, educational, and social forum for leather and levi clubs in the Mid-America region. Its mission is to promote fellowship, mutual support, and cooperation among member organizations, fostering unity and diversity within the leather community, regardless of race, creed, religion, gender identity, or orientation.
2026 Winter Virtual MACC Meeting
Tuesday, January 13 · 7:00 – 8:00pm
Time zone: America/Chicago
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xqe-erug-gkc
Or dial: ‪(US) +1 929-277-6654‬ PIN: ‪643 805 415‬#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/xqe-erug-gkc?pin=8041001951141

Key Objectives of MACC:

Information Sharing: Providing a platform for discussing issues affecting the region’s leather and levi clubs.
Education: Offering resources and opportunities for learning within the community.
Social Engagement: Facilitating events and gatherings to strengthen community bonds.

Member Clubs:
MACC comprises various member clubs dedicated to the leather community. Each club contributes to the collective mission of promoting unity and diversity. Details about individual member clubs can be found on MACC’s official website.
Events and Activities:
MACC organizes and participates in numerous events, including leather runs, meetings, and social gatherings, to support and celebrate the leather community. Upcoming events and news are regularly updated on their website.
For more information about MACC, its history, member clubs, and upcoming events, visit their official website: https://www.midamericaconferenceofclubs.org/.

Mid-Atlantic Leather (MAL) Weekend 2026
2026-01-16 - 2026-01-19
🖤 Mid-Atlantic Leather (MAL) Weekend 2026
📅 Dates: January 16–19, 2026
📍 Location: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill
400 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, DC
What Is MAL Weekend?
Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend is one of the largest annual gatherings of the leather, kink, fetish, and LGBTQ+ communities. Hosted by the Centaur Motorcycle Club, MAL brings together thousands of people from around the world to celebrate leather culture, brotherhood, and self-expression.
The weekend traces its roots back to the 1970s, when a small group of leather men began hosting an annual cocktail event. Over the decades, MAL has grown into a full-scale international weekend filled with social events, community connections, education, and celebration.
What Happens at MAL?
• Leather Cocktails: A signature, formal leather social that honors the history and traditions of the leather community.
• Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather Contest: A major title competition held on Sunday, showcasing community leaders and ambassadors.
• Leather Exhibit Hall: Dozens of vendors offering leather gear, fetish wear, accessories, toys, and more.
• Social Events and Parties: Dances, bar nights, mixers, play spaces, and specialty fetish gatherings throughout the host hotel and across the city.
• Community Connection: Whether you are new to leather or a long-time member of the community, MAL offers a welcoming environment to meet others, learn, and celebrate who you are.
Why MAL Matters
MAL is more than a party weekend …it is a cultural cornerstone for the leather and kink community. It provides space for education, visibility, authentic expression, and the celebration of our shared history. It brings together people of all identities and experience levels to connect in a safe, consensual, and affirming environment.

Argonauts of Wisconsin – WinterQuest 52
2026-01-17 17:30 - 23:00
The Argonauts of Wisconsin invite the Mid-America Conference of Clubs community to join them for WinterQuest 52, a special evening filled with camaraderie, connection, and celebration.
This annual gathering is a chance to honor 51 years of history, reflect on the bonds that unite us, and look ahead to the bright future of the leather community. Expect good company, great conversation, and a warm welcome from our Wisconsin brothers.

📅 Event Details
🗓 Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
📍 Location: Cobblestone Creek, 740 W Ryan St, Brillion, WI 54110
⏰ Schedule:
🍸 Cocktails: 5:30 PM
🍽 Family-Style Dinner: 6:30 PM
📌 RSVP by: January 4, 2026
📧 Contact: Argonauts of WI – Events
✉️ Email: Argonauts.Wisco@gmail.com

About the Argonauts of Wisconsin
The Argonauts of Wisconsin are a long-standing LGBTQ+ leather and Levi organization dedicated to brotherhood, community, and the preservation of leather traditions. For more than five decades, the club has provided a welcoming space for connection, friendship, and service.
Through social events, charitable efforts, and regional collaboration, the Argonauts continue to strengthen the leather community across Wisconsin and the greater Midwest. WinterQuest remains a cornerstone event, celebrating both the club’s rich history and the friendships that carry it forward.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD)
2026-02-07
🖤❤️National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD)
Observed annually on February 7
National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a nationwide initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the disproportionate impact of HIV and AIDS on Black communities in the United States. It encourages education, testing, treatment access, and community mobilization in order to reduce HIV stigma and promote health equity.

⭐Why This Day Matters
1. Black communities face disproportionate impact
Although Black Americans represent about 12–13% of the U.S. population, they account for:

Nearly 40% of people living with HIV
About 40% of new HIV diagnoses

This disparity is driven not by behavior, but by systemic inequalities—including access to healthcare, social stigma, discrimination, poverty, and historical medical mistrust.
2. Centers the intersection of race & LGBTQ+ health
NBHAAD is especially relevant to LGBTQ+ communities, particularly:

Black gay, bi, and same-gender-loving (SGL) men
Black transgender women
Black queer youth

These groups experience some of the highest HIV infection rates nationwide due to overlapping social, economic, and healthcare barriers.
3. Promotes four core pillars
NBHAAD focuses on:

Learn the facts about HIV in Black communities
Test for HIV (knowing your status reduces transmission and saves lives)
Prevent with options like PrEP, PEP, and safer sex
Treat — ensuring people living with HIV receive access to care and maintain viral suppression (“U=U”)

⭐Key Messages of the Day
💬 U = U (Undetectable = Untransmittable)
People living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit HIV. NBHAAD promotes this message widely to reduce stigma.
💬 Empowerment & visibility
The day uplifts Black-led health organizations, HIV activists, and community groups that have been the backbone of HIV-related support and education.
💬 Breaking stigma
Much of the work focuses on dismantling shame and misinformation, encouraging open conversation, and fostering welcoming healthcare environments.

⭐ What This Day Symbolizes
NBHAAD isn’t just about statistics—it is about:

Visibility
Equality
Health justice
Community care
Remembering the past and improving the future
Empowering Black queer lives and voices

It highlights the resilience, leadership, and contributions of Black communities in the long-standing fight against HIV stigma and health inequity.

Zero Discrimination Day
2026-03-01
Zero Discrimination Day is an international awareness day created by UNAIDS in 2014 to promote equality, inclusion, and dignity for all people—regardless of race, gender, sexuality, HIV status, disability, nationality, or any other identity.
The day is symbolized by a butterfly, representing transformation, freedom, and the right to live openly without stigma.
While Zero Discrimination Day is universal, it has strong connections to LGBTQ+ communities and HIV/AIDS advocacy, making it a meaningful observance for organizations within MACC and the broader leather and kink community.

What Zero Discrimination Day Stands For
1. Ending Discrimination in All Forms
The day calls attention to the many areas where discrimination still affects people’s lives:

Sexual orientation & gender identity
HIV status
Race & ethnicity
Disability
Immigration status
Socioeconomic barriers
Age & gender

Its core message is simple yet powerful: Everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.

2. HIV Stigma Reduction
Because UNAIDS established this day, there is a strong emphasis on ending:

HIV-related stigma
Barriers to testing
Discrimination in healthcare
Shame around discussing HIV status
Misconceptions about transmission
Unequal access to prevention tools like PrEP and PEP

The message of U = U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) is often highlighted—helping normalize HIV conversations and empower people living with HIV.

3. Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights
Around the world, LGBTQ+ communities still face:

Legal discrimination
Violence
Barriers to employment and housing
Healthcare inequality
Criminalization of queer identities
Social stigma

Zero Discrimination Day advocates globally for full equality, making it an important date for LGBTQ+, leather, and kink-based organizations who believe in inclusive community values.

4. Encouraging Governments & Institutions to Act
The day is not just symbolic—it pushes governments, schools, employers, healthcare systems, and community organizations to:

Implement non-discrimination policies
Improve access to services
Promote inclusive education
Challenge harmful laws and cultural norms

This aligns closely with the mission of many LGBTQ+ groups who fight for safer, affirming spaces.

🌈 Why It Matters to the Leather & LGBTQ+ Community
The leather and kink communities have long stood against exclusion and shame. Zero Discrimination Day reinforces values that matter deeply to us:

Body positivity
HIV awareness & empowerment
Gender diversity acceptance
Sexual freedom & autonomy
Anti-stigma messaging
Chosen family inclusivity

MACC 2026 Spring Executive Board Meeting
2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:00
You’re invited to join our next MACC Executive Board Meeting on Wednesday, March 18, from 7:00 – 8:00 PM (Central Time). This virtual meeting is an important opportunity for us to review club business, discuss upcoming initiatives, and continue planning for the exciting events ahead.

🗓 Date: Wednesday, March 18th
⏰ Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM (America/Chicago)

Rudis Leather Mosh Madness 2026
2026-03-20 - 2026-03-21 | Bar PM, 7109 S Broadway, St. Louis, Missouri, 63111, United States
Mosh Madness is Rudis Leather Society’s annual spring celebration — a high-energy, community-centered weekend highlighting pup play, kink culture, leather community traditions, and social connection. The event spans two days, featuring a Friday night kickoff social followed by the main Mosh Madness festivities on Saturday.
Designed to be inclusive, welcoming, and accessible, Mosh Madness brings together pups, handlers, kink enthusiasts, leatherfolk, and allies from across the region. Attendees can expect a playful, affirming environment that embraces individual expression and community bonding.

🐾 Friday Night: Kickoff Party
A casual social event to start the weekend, usually held at one of Rudis’s partner bars or community venues. Typical elements include:

Meet-and-greet with Rudis members
Gear-friendly environment
Drink specials or themed shots
Space to connect with visiting clubs and newcomers

This night sets the tone for a fun, relaxed, and welcoming weekend.

🥳 Saturday: Mosh Madness Main Event

Main Mosh Pit: A high-energy pup mosh with mats, music, and space for pups and handlers to interact
Sensory-Friendly Mosh: A quieter, low-stim option offered earlier in the evening for those who prefer reduced noise or a calmer environment
Vendor Presence: Partners such as leather shops, gear suppliers, or local artisans (in past years: Leather 64TEN)
Raffle Baskets: Fundraising baskets with community-donated items, pup gear, local business gifts, and leather toys
Pudding Shots & Themed Drinks: A fun Rudis tradition that gives the event a playful vibe
Community Photo Opportunities: Group photos, pup packs, gear displays, and club representation

Midnight Howl KC presents Tails of the Midwest 🐾🐾🐾
2026-03-27 16:00 - 2026-03-29 13:00
🐾 Midnight Howl KC presents Tails of the Midwest
📅 March 27 to March 29, 2026
📍 Kansas City, Missouri
Join Midnight Howl KC for Tails of the Midwest, a weekend gathering that celebrates pet play, community, and connection. The event begins on Friday at 4:00 PM and concludes on Sunday at 1:00 PM.
About Midnight Howl KC
Midnight Howl KC is a Kansas City based social collective dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for pets and handlers. Their community focuses on the social and relational aspects of pet play and is open to adults from all backgrounds. Members include social pets, service pets, sexual pets, psychological pets, and curious beginners. Gear such as hoods, collars, and tails is completely optional. What matters most is respect, consent, and community.
Midnight Howl KC encourages a friendly environment where people can learn, explore, and enjoy themselves without pressure. The group also participates in the wider regional community as a member of the Mid America Conference of Clubs.
What to Expect at Tails of the Midwest
• A warm and inclusive atmosphere for pets, handlers, and supporters.
• Weekend activities that may include bar nights, social gatherings, workshops, and themed meetups.
• Plenty of space for people to connect, learn, and share in the fun of pet play at whatever level feels right for them.
• Opportunities to meet new friends and strengthen bonds within the broader kink and leather community.
Who Can Attend
All adults who value respect, consent, and curiosity are welcome. No prior experience is required. You do not need to be collared or have a handler or pet relationship in order to participate. Everyone is encouraged to engage at their own comfort level.
Before You Go
Always ask for consent before touching someone, giving scritches, interacting with gear, or initiating play. Pet play etiquette is important and Midnight Howl KC places a strong focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for all attendees.
More Information
Event details and updates can be found at:
https://www.midnighthowlkc.org/tails

MACC 2026 Spring Meeting
2026-03-28
The Mid-America Conference of Clubs (MACC), established in 1974, serves as an informational, educational, and social forum for leather and levi clubs in the Mid-America region. Its mission is to promote fellowship, mutual support, and cooperation among member organizations, fostering unity and diversity within the leather community, regardless of race, creed, religion, gender identity, or orientation.
Key Objectives of MACC:
•Information Sharing: Providing a platform for discussing issues affecting the region’s leather and levi clubs.
•Education: Offering resources and opportunities for learning within the community.
•Social Engagement: Facilitating events and gatherings to strengthen community bonds.
Member Clubs:
MACC comprises various member clubs dedicated to the leather community. Each club contributes to the collective mission of promoting unity and diversity. Details about individual member clubs can be found on MACC’s official website.
Events and Activities:
MACC organizes and participates in numerous events, including leather runs, meetings, and social gatherings, to support and celebrate the leather community. Upcoming events and news are regularly updated on their website.
For more information about MACC, its history, member clubs, and upcoming events, visit their official website: https://www.midamericaconferenceofclubs.org/.

Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV) 🏳️‍⚧️
2026-03-31
🏳️‍⚧️ Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV)
Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV) is an annual international observance celebrated every year on March 31. Founded in 2009 by trans activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker, TDoV was created to fill an important gap in LGBTQ+ awareness: a day focused not on mourning, but on celebrating transgender lives.
Transgender Day of Visibility honors the strength, beauty, resilience, and leadership of transgender and gender-expansive people. It highlights both the progress we’ve made and the work still needed to ensure dignity, equality, and safety for the entire trans community.
Whereas Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20) memorializes those lost to anti-trans violence, TDoV is about visibility, empowerment, and joy.

Why Visibility Matters
Despite increased representation in media and culture, transgender people continue to face erasure, misunderstanding, and systemic barriers. TDoV brings attention to these realities while uplifting the many contributions trans people make within our community and beyond.
Visibility is powerful because it:

Counters misinformation with truth
Replaces stigma with celebration
Builds understanding and connection
Makes space for trans people to live authentically
Encourages institutions and communities to create safer, more inclusive environments

For many, visibility is not just personal — it is political, cultural, and communal.

Celebrating Trans Joy and Excellence
Transgender people enrich every corner of society: activism, art, service, education, healthcare, nightlife, sports, and community leadership. TDoV shines a spotlight on these voices, recognizing the everyday triumphs that often go unnoticed.
It honors:

Transgender women, especially Black, brown, and Indigenous trans women whose leadership has shaped LGBTQ+ liberation
Transgender men and their growing visibility and impact
Non-binary, genderqueer, and gender-expansive people
Two-Spirit individuals whose identities connect deeply with culture and history
Trans youth, whose courage inspires new generations
Elders, who paved the way for today’s freedoms and visibility

TDoV reminds us that trans lives are not defined by hardship alone, but also by brilliance, creativity, joy, humor, love, and resilience.

Challenges the Community Still Faces
Even as visibility grows, transgender people continue to encounter obstacles, including:

Discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and education
Barriers to gender-affirming medical and mental health care
Increasing political and legislative attacks
Violence and harassment, especially against trans women of color
Stigma around pronouns, names, and gender identity
Social isolation and lack of acceptance

These challenges reinforce the importance of continued advocacy, allyship, and community support — values core to organizations like Blue Max, and our broader leather and LGBTQ+ family.

The Role of LGBTQ+ and Leather Communities
Transgender people have always been part of queer history and leather culture. Their contributions continue to shape our clubs, contests, bars, runs, and chosen family structures.
TDoV is an opportunity for us to:

Recognize and uplift our trans members
Reaffirm our commitment to inclusive spaces
Examine how we support gender diversity within our events and traditions
Collaborate with trans-led organizations such as MTUG (Metro Trans Umbrella Group)
Amplify the voices and needs of trans individuals in our clubs and community networks

Our commitment to visibility means creating spaces where every identity is honored and all people feel welcome to show up as their full selves.

CLAW 2026
2026-04-02 - 2026-04-05
✨ CLAW 2026 – Cleveland Leather Annual Weekend
📅 Date: April 2–5, 2026
📍 Location: Hyatt Regency Columbus, Columbus, Ohio
About CLAW
CLAW began in 2002 as a community-organized leather weekend and grew into one of the largest annual leather, fetish, and kink conventions in the U.S. It is run by CLAW Corp, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to education, community support, fundraising, and inclusive celebration of adult leather and kink.
The mission of CLAW is rooted in the belief that leather, fetish, and BDSM interests are natural and healthy. Through its events and programming, CLAW offers a space where people of all backgrounds, identities, and levels of experience are welcomed and respected.
What to Expect at CLAW 2026
CLAW 2026 transforms the host hotel into a full leather-community hub with wide-ranging events and opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate:

A massive VendorMart featuring dozens of vendors with leather gear, fetish wear, accessories, and more.
Over 100 workshops and educational classes, covering BDSM skills, safety, consent, body positivity, and other community-focused topics.
A variety of socials, mixers, and nightlife events from dance parties and play spaces to themed gatherings, community dinners, and casual meet-ups.
Community-building events: drag brunches, art shows, Kinky Kabaret, pet/pup moshes, speed dating, cigar-deck socials, game shows, and more.
A charitable purpose: proceeds from CLAW support LGBTQ+, HIV/AIDS, and leather-related charities. Over the years, CLAW has donated substantial amounts to more than 200 different organizations.

Why CLAW Matters
CLAW is more than a convention — it’s a community cornerstone. It preserves and uplifts leather and kink culture by providing education, support, visibility, and safe spaces for expression. By emphasizing consent, inclusion, and respect, CLAW helps foster acceptance and understanding of alternative lifestyles while supporting charitable causes across the broader community.
Even though CLAW 2026 moves to Columbus … rather than its longtime home in Cleveland — the spirit, mission, and community remain the same. Organizers emphasize that this is a new chapter, not a goodbye to Cleveland.
Who Should Attend
CLAW welcomes adults of all genders, orientations, identities, and levels of experience. Whether you’re new to leather/kink or a longtime community member, CLAW provides a welcoming, safe, and affirming space to explore interests, learn, connect, and celebrate yourself.

Conductors Leather Run 2026
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26
The Conductors Leather Run is an exciting annual event organized by the Conductors Leather & Levi Club. Held in Track 44, this event brings together members of the leather and levi communities for a weekend of fun, fellowship, and fundraising.
Participants can look forward to a variety of activities, including social gatherings, charity auctions, and themed parties.
Accommodations are available in different formats, such as cabins and RV spaces, ensuring everyone has a comfortable place to stay. The event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and support important causes.

What Are the Conductors

The Conductors were founded in 1982 by a group of friends in Nashville who shared a passion for leather culture.
Over more than four decades, they have become one of the longest-standing gay social and service clubs in the city.
The club is part of a tradition of Leather/Levi clubs in the United States that blend social connection, community support, and leather culture.

Mission and Community Work

In their early years, the Conductors recognized the importance of giving back. They organized charity events such as food drives, worked with local organizations, and contributed to early community AIDS-relief efforts.
They have maintained a long-standing commitment to social responsibility, offering support to those in the community in need, especially during health crises and times of hardship.
Through these efforts, the Conductors helped broaden acceptance of leather culture in Nashville’s gay community — helping turn what was once risky or fringe into a respected subculture.

What They Do

The Conductors host regular club-nights at their “home bar,” currently listed as TRAX in Nashville.
They organize annual “runs” (weekend gatherings) that bring together members and guests for fellowship, leather/Levi culture, socializing, and community building.
These runs typically feature leather-community events and provide a social opportunity for people interested in leather, kink, and community.
The club environment emphasizes respect, consent, and a sense of brotherhood (and sisterhood), welcoming people of many backgrounds who share an interest in leather and community.

Why the Conductors Matter

The Conductors are part of the legacy of Leather/Levi clubs that preserved and passed on leather culture, values, and community when mainstream acceptance was rare. Their early willingness to be visible and charitable helped pave the way for broader acceptance.
Their ongoing work shows that leather culture is not just about gear or nightlife, but about community, solidarity, support, and history. The Conductors help keep that living tradition alive.
For people exploring leather, Levi, or kink culture — or seeking a welcoming, affirming community — the Conductors represent a stable, long-established entry point grounded in respect, support, and shared values.

🌈 Lesbian Visibility Day (LVD)
2026-04-26
🌈 Lesbian Visibility Day (LVD) – Observed annually on April 26
Lesbian Visibility Day is an international observance dedicated to celebrating, uplifting, and honoring lesbian women and lesbian-identifying people of all backgrounds. It centers pride, empowerment, representation, and the contributions lesbians have made to culture, activism, and LGBTQ+ history.
While Pride Month celebrates the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities, Lesbian Visibility Day specifically spotlights a community that has often been overlooked or underrepresented—even within queer spaces.

⭐What Lesbian Visibility Day Represents
1. Celebrating Lesbian Identity
The day highlights:

Lesbian culture, relationships, and community
Creativity, leadership, activism, and history
The diversity of lesbian experiences (butch, femme, stud, trans lesbians, nonbinary lesbians, Black & brown lesbians, elders, and more)

It embraces the message:
Lesbian lives deserve to be seen, valued, and celebrated.

2. Challenging Erasure
Lesbians have historically faced erasure in mainstream media, history books, and even within LGBTQ+ narratives. LVD helps counter that by:

Promoting stories and visibility
Highlighting LGBTQ+ women’s contributions
Acknowledging the unique struggles lesbians face
Addressing stereotypes and reclaiming representation

3. Building Community and Connection
Lesbian Visibility Day is also about community-building, including:

Gatherings
Social events
Storytelling campaigns
Online visibility projects
Intergenerational connection (elders → younger generations)

4. Recognizing Intersectionality
Lesbian experiences intersect with:

Race
Gender expression
Religion
Disability
Trans identity
Culture and nationality

LVD acknowledges these layered identities and the unique resilience of lesbians across the globe.

🌟Why It Matters to LGBTQ+ and Leather Communities
Lesbians have played key roles in:

Queer liberation movements
Lesbian bars and nightlife culture
HIV/AIDS caregiving and activism
Leather, biker, and kink communities
Feminist movements and political advocacy

Honoring Lesbian Visibility Day helps reinforce:

Gender-inclusive spaces
Respect for women in leather
Support for lesbian leadership and representation
Recognition of diversity within the queer community
Celebration of chosen family across identities

International Mr. Leather (IML) 2026
2026-05-21 - 2026-05-25
🖤 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.

Rudis Leather Society’s Hell on Heels 2026
2026-06-06 20:00 - 23:59 | Bar PM, 7109 S Broadway, St. Louis, Missouri, 63111, United States
Hell on Heels is the Rudis Leather Society’s largest annual fundraising event, celebrating the connections between leather and drag. Traditionally held at Bar: PM in St. Louis, Missouri, this event features drag performers teaming up with Rudis members for an unforgettable show. Highlights include raffle baskets, shots, and the popular Sexy Leg Contest, where attendees can compete for prizes by showcasing their best in heels

Argonauts of Wisconsin Leather Run 2026
2026-08-13 - 2026-08-16
The Argonauts of Wisconsin Leather Run is an annual event organized by the Argonauts of Wisconsin, a gay, leather/levi social club based in Green Bay. The run, which started around 1976, has become a beloved tradition in the leather community. It’s held in August at a farm near Hilbert, WI, and is a joint event with the Castaways M.C. of Milwaukee
The run features a variety of activities, including social gatherings, charity auctions, and the annual Mr. Northwoodscompetition. The event has raised significant funds for local HIV/AIDS charities through Argonaut Charities, supporting organizations like Rainbow Over Wisconsin and the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin
The Argonauts of Wisconsin is known for fostering fellowship and advancing the collective needs and interests of its members. They’ve been a cornerstone of the leather community in Wisconsin for over 50 years, celebrating camaraderie and community service.

Iowa Leather Weekend 2026
2026-08-28 - 2026-08-30
ℹ️ What Is Iowa Leather Weekend

Iowa Leather Weekend began in 1988 as a simple contest for Mr. Iowa Leather. Over the years it expanded to include additional titles — Ms. Iowa Leather, Mr. Iowa Bear, and Iowa Pet — turning the event into a full-scale celebration of the fetish, leather, bear, pet, and kink communities.
ILW is hosted by The Blazing Saddle — Iowa’s oldest gay bar, located in the East Village of Downtown Des Moines.

📆 2026 Details & Timing

For 2026, Iowa Leather Weekend is scheduled to begin on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM CDT.
The weekend wraps up on Sunday, August 30, 2026, making it a three-day event.

🎉 What Happens at ILW — Events, Contests & Socials
ILW is much more than a title contest weekend. It’s a full community gathering combining events, socials, contests, vendor-mart, and more:

Title Contests: During the weekend ILW awards the titles of Mr. and Ms. Iowa Leather, Mr. Iowa Bear, and Iowa Pet. Winner-holders go on to represent Iowa in various regional and national competitions.
Social Events & Themed Parties: Expect events such as a Cigar Smoke-Out, a Grill Out, Rubbermen Meet-Ups, Pet “moshes” or socials (for pet/pup-play community), and other themed gatherings.
3-Day Vendor Mart: A large vendor marketplace offering leather gear, fetish wear, accessories, and more. Many attendees look forward to this as a chance to browse, shop, and connect with vendors from across the region.
Community & Charity Engagement: ILW maintains strong community ties — their website lists a broad range of community partners including LGBTQ+ support organizations, Pride groups, health and social-justice/nonprofit organizations, showing that ILW is more than socializing — it’s also about solidarity, support, and giving back.
Victory Party & Closing Events: At the end of the weekend, ILW hosts a Victory Party and other closing events to honor contest winners and celebrate the community together.

🤝 Why ILW Matters — Community, Culture & History

ILW is one of the longest-running leather/fetish events in the Midwest. Its history stretches back decades, evolving from a single-title contest into a multifaceted community event.
It provides a regional gathering point for people involved in leather, bear, pet, kink, fetish — whether newcomers or long-time community members. For many, ILW is about connection, acceptance, and shared identity.
ILW fosters community outreach and visibility. By partnering with advocacy, health, and social groups, it supports more than the social or fetish scene — it contributes to LGBTQ+ visibility, support networks, and broader community health and solidarity.
The event tradition helps sustain and grow leather/fetish culture in Iowa and surrounding regions — offering education, social bonding, safe spaces, and opportunities for personal expression.

Atons of Minneapolis present Gopher XXV Mount Olympus 🐻🐻
2026-09-10 - 2026-09-13
🐻 Atons of Minneapolis present Gopher XXV Mount Olympus
📅 September 10 to 13, 2026
📍 Norway Point Group Center, St. Croix State Park, Hinckley, Minnesota
The Atons of Minneapolis will host Gopher XXV Mount Olympus, a special four day leather run that celebrates both the 25th official Gopher Run and the 54th anniversary of the Atons. This weekend is designed to blend education, dungeon play, camaraderie, and a playful mythological theme inspired by Greek gods and heroes. The event is also being proposed as the site of the 2026 Fall MACC Meeting.
Event Theme and Highlights
Gopher XXV embraces a Mount Olympus theme that encourages fantasy, creativity, and community. The weekend will feature educational workshops during the day and dungeon spaces at night. Guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere filled with brotherhood, kink education, social bonding, and plenty of fun rooted in leather tradition.
Location
The run takes place at the Norway Point Group Center inside St. Croix State Park near Hinckley, Minnesota. The site is approximately 90 minutes north of Minneapolis. It is larger than the Whitewater Group Center used in previous years and is known historically as the longtime home of the Knights of Leather Tournament Run. Norway Point includes four separate “villages,” each with a lodge that will serve as workshop areas during the day and dungeon spaces after dark.
Accommodations
Included at no additional cost

Twenty eight rustic cabins that sleep eight people each. These are unpowered cabins.
Three cabins that sleep two people each.
Five powered buildings that sleep thirty people.
Optional upgrades

Two guest houses are available for groups that want a more comfortable stay.

Guest House 1 sleeps up to fifteen people, includes a full kitchen, and has two full bathrooms with showers on each floor.
Guest House 2 sleeps up to twelve people with the same amenities.

The upgrade cost is 235 dollars per night.
Cost and Meals
Pricing is expected to be similar to the 2024 run with adjustments for inflation and the extended schedule. The estimated cost is 225 to 275 dollars, which includes all meals from Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast.
Accessibility
Accessible facilities at Norway Point include the A Village restroom, latrine, dining hall, and infirmary.
Wi-Fi Availability
Wi-Fi is available at the Norway Point mess hall, the park office, and the main campground’s visitor center.
Gopher XXV Mount Olympus promises a memorable experience filled with tradition, play, education, and leather community spirit. The Atons look forward to hosting guests and hope to welcome MACC for the Fall 2026 meeting.

About the Atons of Minneapolis
The Atons of Minneapolis, founded in 1972, are one of the longest running leather clubs in the United States. They are known for their commitment to brotherhood, leather culture, education, and community service. The Atons host social events, bar nights, fundraisers, and an annual run that brings together leather people from across the country. The club values inclusivity, respect, and camaraderie and is a proud member of the Mid America Conference of Clubs.

National Coming Out Day (NCOD) 2026
2026-10-11
🌈 National Coming Out Day (NCOD)
📅 Observed every year on October 11

What Is National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day is an annual LGBTQ+ awareness day that honors the act of coming out, celebrates those who live openly, and supports people who are exploring or embracing their identities. It is both a day of visibility and a reminder that living authentically can be a powerful act of courage and liberation.
The day began in 1988, one year after the historic 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The founders believed that openness and visibility were essential tools for creating understanding and equality. Today the event is observed across the United States and in several countries around the world.
Why the Day Matters
National Coming Out Day creates space for LGBTQ+ people to share their stories, find support, and feel seen. For many, it is a day of pride, relief, empowerment, or reflection. It also encourages allies to stand in solidarity, listen, learn, and contribute to safer, more welcoming environments for everyone.
Coming out is different for every person. Some choose to come out publicly. Others come out only to close friends or family. Some never come out, and that is completely valid. NCOD emphasizes that every path is personal and worthy of respect. The message is simple: live authentically at your own pace, and know that you are supported.
How Communities Celebrate
Organizations, clubs, campuses, and LGBTQ+ centers often host events such as panel discussions, support gatherings, storytelling programs, marches, social events, and resource fairs. Online communities mark the day with posts, videos, and stories that uplift queer voices.
For many, NCOD is not only a celebration of identity. It is a reminder that visibility helps reduce stigma and builds a world where people can be open without fear.
Blue Max Perspective
For MACC Clubs National Coming Out Day is an opportunity to reaffirm values of inclusion, respect, and pride. It is a day to support members wherever they are in their journey, whether they are newly out, long out, still discerning, or simply choosing their own level of visibility.

International Pronouns Day 2026
2026-10-21
🌍 What Is International Pronouns Day
International Pronouns Day began in 2018 as a grassroots initiative to help normalize the practice of sharing and respecting people’s chosen pronouns.
The goal is to make the use of correct pronouns a common and respectful practice in everyday life. By doing so, the day supports dignity, inclusion, and acknowledgement of people’s gender identities — especially for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming individuals.
Many see pronouns as more than grammar — they are tied to identity, respect, and basic human dignity. Using a person’s correct pronouns (or using gender-neutral pronouns if requested) is a basic way to show respect and acceptance.

✅ Why the Day Matters

Using correct pronouns helps avoid assumptions about someone’s gender. For many transgender or nonbinary individuals, being spoken to using correct pronouns is affirming, validating, and dignified.
International Pronouns Day encourages environments where people feel safe to share their pronouns, which helps foster inclusion, respect, and visibility for gender-diverse individuals.
It’s also a day for allies — it invites people who may not themselves be transgender or nonbinary to reflect on their language and help normalize pronoun sharing in workplaces, schools, social groups, and communities.

🎯 Ways to Observe / Celebrate
Some common ways organizations or individuals commemorate International Pronouns Day:

Sharing your pronouns in social media profiles, email signatures, business cards, or name badges.
Holding informational or educational events: workshops, panel discussions, pronoun-sharing circles, or pronoun-awareness sessions.
Using hashtags (e.g. #PronounsDay or #InternationalPronounsDay) to promote visibility online.
Checking in with friends or colleagues: asking “What pronouns do you use?” — and modeling inclusivity by sharing your own pronouns first.
Recognizing that not everyone may want to share pronouns — respecting individual comfort levels and honoring privacy is part of the day’s spirit.

MACC Fall 2026 Executive Board Meeting
2026-10-23 19:00 - 20:00
You’re invited to join our next MACC Executive Board Meeting on Wednesday, October 23rd from 7:00 – 8:00 PM (Central Time). This virtual meeting is an important opportunity for us to review club business, discuss upcoming initiatives, and continue planning for the exciting events ahead.

🗓 Date: Wednesday, October 23
⏰ Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM (America/Chicago)

Rudis Leather Society — Colosseum Run & More
2026-10-30 - 2026-11-01
Colosseum Run — What It Is
Colosseum Run is Rudis’ flagship leather run — a major event that brings together members and guests from across the region to celebrate leather culture, community, and fellowship. The Run evokes the symbolism of ancient gladiatorial tradition: “Colosseum” as a nod to history and brotherhood, “Run” as a gathering of community, freedom, and shared identity.
At Colosseum Run, attendees can expect:

Social events and gatherings where leather, gear, and self-expression are welcomed and encouraged.
Opportunities for education through workshops or FET Talks covering leather history, safe practices, consent, and more.
Community building — meet others in the leather/kink community, build friendships, find mentors or allies, and support local culture.
A safe, inclusive environment where people of any gender or background are welcome to explore leather and kink with respect and mutual consent.

Rudis emphasizes that Colosseum Run — and all their events — are designed to welcome newcomers, those curious, and long-time leatherfolk alike. Whether you are experienced or exploring for the first time, the Society aims to help you feel comfortable, informed, and connected.

About Rudis Leather Society
Rudis Leather Society was established in 2016 to create a welcoming, inclusive, and judgment-free space for anyone interested in leather, kink, or fetish culture. The club took its name from the “rudis,” the wooden sword that Ancient Roman gladiators received to signify their freedom — symbolizing the club’s commitment to freedom of expression, self-discovery, and community.
From the start a “men’s leather society,” Rudis evolved quickly into a fully gender-inclusive organization, open to all adults regardless of background, orientation, or previous experience in leather culture. Their motto centers on three principles: Be Free, Educate, Create — encouraging personal expression, kink and leather education, and building a supportive community.
Rudis runs regular socials (in person and online), educational sessions, community events, and supports outreach to local organizations. They are also part of the broader regional network of clubs under Mid America Conference of Clubs (MACC).
Two of Rudis’ ongoing offerings are:

“FET Talks” (Fetish Education Teaching) — a series of workshops and information sessions on leather and kink culture, safety, consent, and community history. These talks aim to educate newcomers and provide resources for safer, informed exploration.

Regular Leather Socials, often held at their home bar (Bar:PM), usually every other Wednesday — a relaxed, welcoming environment where people can meet, socialize, and express themselves in gear if they choose.

MACC 2026 Fall Meeting
2026-10-31

Human Rights Day 2026
2026-12-10
Observed annually on December 10
Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The UDHR is one of the most important documents in modern history—declaring that all people, everywhere, are entitled to basic rights and freedoms, regardless of identity, background, or circumstance.
This day is globally recognized and honored by civil rights organizations, LGBTQ+ groups, activists, and governments as a reminder that human rights must be defended every single day.

⭐ What the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Says

The UDHR outlines 30 fundamental rights and principles, including:

The right to life, liberty, and personal security
Freedom of expression, thought, identity, and belief
The right to privacy and bodily autonomy
Freedom from torture, cruelty, and degrading treatment
Equality before the law
The right to work, education, and healthcare
The right to assemble, organize, and participate in community life

These form the basis for modern civil rights protections around the world.

🌈 Why Human Rights Day Matters to LGBTQ+ Communities
The struggle for LGBTQ+ liberation—and leather/kink community visibility—has always been rooted in human rights. Human Rights Day emphasizes:
1. Equality + Non-Discrimination
Sexual orientation, gender identity, kink, relationship structure, and consensual adult expression are all areas where communities still experience discrimination.
2. Bodily Autonomy
A core human right connected to gender-affirming care, sexual freedom, reproductive rights, and personal expression.
3. Freedom of Expression
Essential for queer culture, leather culture, drag, kink communities, and personal pride.
4. Safety and Protection
Transgender women, LGBTQ+ youth, and queer people of color face disproportionate violence worldwide. Human Rights Day highlights the need to address this urgently.
5. Global Solidarity
In over 60+ countries, LGBTQ+ identities remain criminalized. Some regions still impose imprisonment or worse. Human Rights Day calls attention to these injustices and mobilizes advocacy.
