Convention schedule

Midwest Furfest 2016

223 events

Thursday, December 01, 2016

7 events

Registration - Pre-Registered Badge Pick-up (Sponsor, Shiny-Sponsor Only)

4:30pm - 5:00pm United

4:30 PM - 5:00 PM - Preregistered Badge Pickup (Sponsors/Shiny Sponsors Only) (in Rosemont) 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM - Preregistered Badge Pickup (All membership types) (in Rosemont) 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM - At-the-Door Registration open (All membership types) (in United)

Registration - Pre-Registered Badge Pick-up

5:00pm - 11:00pm United

Registration - At the Door

6:00pm - 11:00pm United

Art Jam

7:00pm - 12:00am Hartsfield

First-come seating - but all are welcome as long as space is available!

Thursday Night BYOG

7:00pm - 12:00am OHare

Open Gaming for Thursday - Make sure to bring your own games along for these open sessions!

MFF All Staff Meeting (Option 1)

10:00pm - 11:00pm LAX

All MFF staff are invited to attend 1 of the 2 all-hands meetings. Option 1 - Thursday 10pm Option 2 - Friday 10am

Thursday Dance

10:00pm - 2:00am Grand Ballroom

Shake your tails! Its time to dance! 10pm -- Veyote 11pm -- Addix 12a -- AxleFusky 1a -- Rocco

Friday, December 02, 2016

85 events

Con Suite

9:00am - 12:00am Grand AB

Operations

9:00am - 2:00am Reagan

Artists Ally Sign-up

9:30am - 11:30am International Level

MFF All Staff Meeting (Option 2)

10:00am - 11:00am LAX

All MFF staff are invited to attend 1 of the 2 all-hands meetings. Option 1 - Thursday 10pm Option 2 - Friday 10am

Registration

10:00am - 9:00pm United

After Registration closes, Temporary Badges good for one evening only can be obtained at Convention Operations

Table Top Gaming

10:00am - 2:00am OHare

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Travel Furries

11:00am - 12:00pm John Wayne

Learn some tips and tricks from frequent flyers and travelers to get the most out of your trips to places near and far! From airline loyalty programs to credit card points to hotel recommendations, bring your questions and stories to share with fellow attendees!

Opening Ceremonies

11:00am - 12:00pm Grand Ballroom

Join us for the official start to Midwest FurFest 2016, with last minute announcements and other interesting tidbits. Let's start the convention off with a bang!

Writing 101

11:30am - 12:30pm Lambert

We all start somewhere, and it's no different for writing. Whether you hope to one day write the Great American Furry Novel, or just want to do better at the stories you share with friends, come and learn some of the basics of good storytelling and some of the pitfalls and common beginner mistakes to avoid.

So It's Your First Furry Convention?

12:00pm - 1:00pm Grand Ballroom

No question, it can all be a little .. crazy, for anyone's first time. We want to help you understand a little bit more about MFF, the furry convention world, and cover some specific topics such as: What to expect at a furry convention, how to behave, pitfalls to avoid, and just what the heck are all those black sketchbooks about, anyway? We'll also have some experienced folks on stage to help answer questions

Your Imagined Furry Fantasy - “Aboard the Seminal Vessel”

12:00pm - 2:00pm Sky Harbor

Upon the open seas, the famed boat “Seminal” was making way towards new lands for exploration when it was destroyed by a massive sea creature! Can the few not lost to the harsh sea survive and find their way back home?

What Are You Saying? Theme in Fiction

12:30pm - 1:30pm John Wayne

The world's most enduring stories communicate timeless truths, and your stories shouldn't be any different. We'll talk about what Lajos Egri, Blake Snyder, and Stephen King have written about how to discover, convey, and execute fully and consistently on the themes of your stories, and we'll talk about how to avoid having your theme go horribly wrong.

Being a Fursuit Handler

1:00pm - 2:00pm LAX

Tips and tricks for being a handler/assistant for fursuiters!

Name that RPG Tune

1:00pm - 2:00pm SeaTac

Ever geek out over music from role-playing games? Come join your fellow RPG music fans for a fun-filled hour of "Name That Tune", RPG style!

Arkham Horror

1:00pm - 4:00pm Liberty

Do you like board games? Do you like really long board games that never end with an Eldritch flare? Imagine having 40 pounds of tokens and literally 4783 cards to pretend you're in 1920s where we must seal the gates and save the 'world' aka town of Arkham from impending tentacle doom. This is a cooperative, RPG board game for up to about 8 players. Iggy will teach you how to play if you're new, and game won't take all night, promise.

Iron Claw Intro Game

1:00pm - 4:00pm OHare

IronClaw Anthropormorphic Fantasy RPG! A short adventure will be run after character generation to introduce the system! 6 Player slots avalible

Artists Alley

1:00pm - 7:00pm International Level

Artist's Alley is a place for individual artists to offer their work, whether it be sketchbook commissions, prints, or other types of creative and unique artwork, all while having a good time! Artists Alley will be in four rooms on the International Level in Vienna, Paris, London, and Florence.

Dealers Den

1:00pm - 7:00pm International Level

The Dealers Den is open to the public during these hours. This includes the International Ballroom, Gatwick, Heathrow. Malpensa and Charles de Gaulle. Dealers listings and locations, with maps, can be found at http://www.furfest.org/DealersDen

Art Show

1:00pm - 8:00pm International Level

Secondary Gaming

1:00pm - 2:00am Logan

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Open Gaming

1:00pm - 6:00pm LaGuardia

Character and Dialogue

1:30pm - 3:00pm Lambert

Characters are arguably the most important element to any story. What makes characters believable, memorable, and compelling? A big part of any characters is the relationships they have with other characters, and one of the primary means of showing characters and their relationships is through dialogue. Come join us as we discuss what makes good characters and dialogue.

Fursuit Posing for Pictures

2:00pm - 3:00pm LAX

Come join this short interactive seminar on tips for how to pose for photographs in fursuit! We'll work on dynamic positions and ways to make your character stand out for the camera.

Fursuit Safety

2:00pm - 3:00pm DFW

For those the want a fursuit or is there first time suiting come listen to some tip to keep in mind while fursuiting or being a handler for a fursuiter to help make sure you have as much fun as possible.

How to volunteer to help MFF

2:00pm - 3:00pm Grand Ballroom

--- How can we sell this to attendees to get qualified and good people on board? --- what do we have available?

Furry Hockey Game

2:00pm - 3:30pm See Sched.org

While not officially sponsored by MFF, the Furry Hockey game is back at the Edge Arena in Bensonville; at the John St rink. All are welcome to come out to watch! Some previous hockey experience is required in order to play - and you will be required to bring and wear all of your own safety equipment. PLAYERS MUST MEET AT THE FRONT OF THE HOTEL FRONT ENTRANCE AT 1:00pm for the shuttle

Comparative Anatomy

2:00pm - 4:00pm Sky Harbor

Curious about the anatomy and physiology of domestic and exotic species? Interested in learning how nature has evolved predators and prey to excel in their ecological niche? Learn about the animal kingdom’s perfection and hypothetical anthropomorphic adaptations from a veterinarian and one of the fandom’s brightest artists.

Video Gaming

2:00pm - 2:00am Midway

See the separate Video Gaming Schedule in your Pocket Program for more details.

If I Fits, I Sits - Cats and Boxes!

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hartsfield

We know how much cats love boxes, so we decided to fill a room with them! We will have other fun kitty toys available too! This will also be where this year's feline photoshoot will occur.

TN Furs Meet and Greet

3:00pm - 4:00pm McCarran

Welcome to the TN Furs Meet and Greet! There will be a few people representing different parts of the state. Aisu and I (Clementine) are representing Middle (Central) TN, our group being Central TN Furs. Troubleshep is representing the East (Knoxville), and Leone aka KJ is representing the West (Memphis). This is a panel to meet new furs in your area, learn about different events and meets, and to have fun! All TN furs and surrounding states are welcome!

Meet the Guests of Honor

3:00pm - 4:00pm Grand Ballroom

Come on by to find out all the interesting details of their work and their interests. This will be a question and answer session, so please fire up your curiosity and bring on those intriguing questions we know you have. Please welcome our 2016 Guests: BETSY THE BEAVER, DRAKONICKNIGHT, BALAA AND BAGHEERA

Biology Discussion

3:00pm - 4:00pm SeaTac

Come here real life biologists (they do exist!) speak on a smattering of subjects. If you're thinking about a career in biology, come ask questions!

Plot and Conflict

3:00pm - 4:00pm Lambert

No matter how good your characters are, you'll need interesting things for them to do, or events they must react to. What makes for a compelling, perhaps riveting plot? One of the key elements in any plot is conflict. In this panel we discuss some of the different plots and types of conflict that can drive a story and keep your readers wondering what happens next.

Fursuit Photoshoot

3:00pm - 7:00pm North Central

Work that tail! Stop on by and mug for our camera, and get some wonderful fursuit pictures to remember the con by!

FVS Rehearsal #1

3:30pm - 6:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Speaking with the News Media 101

4:00pm - 5:00pm Sky Harbor

The news media is a part of everyone's life in one way or another, and no question, furry is a topic of interest from time to time. Learn some best practices and tips from a folks who have done a lot of work with the press, and why its so important to make sure that we're directing inquiries to the right convention leadership; regardless of which convention you're attending.

Introduction to Fursuiting

4:00pm - 5:00pm LAX

An introduction to the world of fursuiting ranging from fursuit care, commissioning a fursuit, and fursuiting at cons and in public.

Meet the Charity

4:00pm - 5:00pm Hartsfield

Founded in 1977 as one of Chicago’s first cage-less, no-kill cat shelters, Felines & Canines operated as Felines Inc. for more than 30 years. Located in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, Felines Inc. provided exceptional housing and care for more than 200 feline residents, with a focus on “special needs” animals. Felines & Canines is dedicated to providing a safe and loving shelter to abandoned, injured, abused and neglected animals until their permanent adoptive home is found; strengthening the human/animal relationship through counseling, education, and compassion.

Last-Fur-One Dance Workshop

4:00pm - 5:30pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

Last-Fur-One is back to bring you some more dancing goodness! Whether you're a newbie on the dance floor, or a seasoned veteran looking for new concepts, the fandom's finest dancers are here to show you how it's done. The first half of the panel is dedicated to basics - the second half for advanced learning!

Setting and World Building

4:00pm - 5:30pm Lambert

Stories can take place in a lot of different places and time periods, whether it's someplace in our modern world, a setting from our history, a futuristic alien society, or a magical world of fantasy. Join us as we discuss the possibilities and the pitfalls, the challenges and rewards of creating or choosing a setting where your characters live and their stories play out.

Battle Monsters – The Coliseum!

4:00pm - 6:00pm Liberty

Does your group of monster battlers and their partner-critters have what it takes to come out on top? Bring your own monster ideas, or come see what monster fate delivers unto you, and battle for glory! Can you be the very best, like no one ever was?

Bingo!

4:00pm - 6:00pm DFW

Exactly what it says on the tin, a bingo game session ! There will be prizes to win and good times to be had. Can come in fursuit or out of suit.

Game Design Workshop: Let's Make a Game

4:00pm - 6:00pm John Wayne

Learn by doing to create a game design concept, and what steps are needed beyond the concept to get a game implemented. Using input from the audience we will decide on a game concept and mechanics and show how a game goes from idea to design document to finished product. Although there won't be time in a panel to create more than an outline of a design document, the panelists will show example prototype products and explain the next steps, while taking input from the audience on how the game concept we create together might be prototyped and produced.

Science, Tech., Engr., & Medicine Meet & Greet

5:00pm - 6:00pm Hartsfield

A chance for anyone who works, studies, or is just interested in the science, technology, engineering, and medical fields to get together, find mutual interests, and network. Twitter group: @Sci_Furs

Shiny Sponsor Reception

5:00pm - 6:00pm See Sched.org

Midwest FurFest is pleased to welcome our Super Shiny Sponsors to a special reception in Ventanas, the breathtaking venue at the very top of the Hyatt! Meet this year's Guests of Honor, enjoy a drink and a light snack, and mingle with your fellow Shiny Sponsors. To get to Ventanas, press the button marked 'V' on any Lobby elevator.

Artists Ally Sign-up for Saturday

5:00pm - 6:00pm International Level

Pagan Furs - Who are we?

5:00pm - 6:00pm McCarran

The word "Pagan" has been thrown around a lot in the past, and it's come to mean different things. Come join us for a discussion about who Pagans are, what we do, and why some of us love and/or hate that word.

So You Want to be a Vet?

5:00pm - 6:00pm SeaTac

Curious about what it takes to become a veterinarian? Questions about careers in professional-level animal care? A full-time veterinarian will answer questions and offer insight. Time permitting, there will be open Q&A about any topic in veterinary medicine, including questions about your own pets.

Furry Bean-Bag Toss Tournament

5:00pm - 8:00pm Conference Center Foyer

Bean Bag Toss (also called CornHole) is similar to playing a game of horseshoes, but not as heavy The game is played between 2 pairs of 2 and doesn't require much skill (unless you think you got some) with a point system for where it lands and if your opponents can match it or beat it. A tutorial will be shown along with the rules and point system and practice will be held before the tournament. Suiters and non suiters are welcome to join in on the fun. Prizes will be given to the winners for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place.

MFF Poker Tournament

5:00pm - 9:00pm Lindbergh

Come one, come all to the incredible Midwest FurFest Poker Tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you will be able to compete for bragging rights and some cool prizes. The tournament will follow the standard casino style. Sign up for one of three satellite tournaments throughout the FurFest weekend. The top 3 players of each satellite tournament will move on to the final 9 player tournament on Sunday. Admission is totally free.

Con Suite

5:00pm - 12:00am Grand AB

Angel dragon Meet and Greet

6:00pm - 7:00pm Hartsfield

What is a angel dragon? Come find out! Games, hang out and learn about the fastly growing community!

IngressFurs Meet & Greet

6:00pm - 7:00pm Tech Center

The world is not what it seems, Exotic matter is all around and you can decide to fight to Resist it's influence or Enlighten the world in it's power. This panel will be about the large scale anomaly events on how they are planned in the background. Arty was the ENL point of contact and lead planner for the recent Chicago anomaly in Nov 2016 and will be explaining all the steps that were required to go from a finger being pointed at you, to launching a 1000+ person event in 7 weeks.

Zen and the Art of Fursuiting

6:00pm - 7:00pm Liberty

Does a philosophy novel about the metaphysics of Quality have to do with fursuiting? We're here to find out. Knowledge of Pirsig's work not required.

Commission Writing

6:00pm - 7:00pm Lambert

Did you know there are writers who take story commissions? Come to this panel to learn about story commissions, whether you're thinking of being a commission writer or are considering commissioning a writer for a story idea.

Drawing Furries! Tips & Tricks!

6:00pm - 8:00pm John Wayne

Helpful tips and tricks to bring your drawings to life! Learn to draw those things you keep having problems with!

Insect meet and greet

6:00pm - 8:00pm SeaTac

A meet and greet for insects of all sizes, shapes and colors.

MST3K

6:00pm - 8:00pm LAX

Mystery Science Theater 3000 – furry style! Come join us as we (and probably the whole room full of people) verbally rip a movie of our choosing to shreds! Hopefully this year’s movie will NOT have center screen wipes. 18+ because Panda x2 to the power of Dragon, over top hat = a lot of ferret cussing.

Your Imagined Furry Fantasy (18+ Only) - 'The Tubes of Fallopia'

6:00pm - 8:00pm Sky Harbor

Massive pipe-like caves have been discovered by archaeologists in a recent dig far from the Temple of Eros! These caverns are filled with mysterious hieroglyphs and an eerie whisper can be heard echoing throughout these tunnels!

Fursuit Dance Comp - Prelims

6:00pm - 9:00pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

Are you the best dancer in the fandom? Do you have it takes to shake a tail feather? Come prove that you've got the moves to take you to the top of MFF's Annual Fursuit Dance Competition! Fursuiters/dancers will compete against one another for a chance to perform on the main ballroom's stage at the Finals!

Spirituality Roundtable

6:00pm - 9:00pm DFW

Come meet the Spirituality panelists. We'll answer your questions about our other panels and be open for general discussion.

Buck Riley - Music

6:30pm - 7:30pm Grand Ballroom

Husky In Denial howls at the moon! Animal rocker Buck Riley barks at (read: serenades) the audience with tales of love, life, and werewolves. Come for the howls, and stick around for an exclusive performance of new music from the upcoming Bedfellows Frenzy video game!

All-In-One Game Development

7:00pm - 8:00pm Tech Center

Most people only have one responsibility when creating a video game: Drawing graphics, writing code, composing music, etc. What happens when one person takes on all of those roles? An indie game called "Stories About Us" that took a year to make start to finish. Come to this panel and learn what went from being a simple concept on paper to a video game single-highhandedly engineered.

Scene and Story Structure

7:00pm - 8:00pm McCarran

Ever had a story idea in which you knew where you wanted to go but not how to get there? Or you have some pieces but aren't sure how they fit together? Or maybe it's a question of keeping the reader interested along the way. This panel will cover approaches to structuring your story, concepts like scene and sequel, pacing, and how to get elements of a story to fit together well.

IronClaw: Retake the Village!

7:00pm - 11:00pm OHare

A large number of refugees are suddenly coming down the road. It seems that some bandits have moved in to their village and have run the regular residents out. The sheriff was killed, and those bad guys are just to big for us regular folk to deal with! 8 player slots available

Personas: Characters We Need

8:00pm - 9:00pm SeaTac

In this illustrated lecture, Stigmata shares the different kinds of personas he's encountered in the furry fandom. A choice of species, color, patterns, and other traits in fursonas can inform us about what the character's owner is like. Knowing this enables furry fans to connect to new friends and furry artists to do their best commissions possible.

Philharmonic Furs

8:00pm - 9:00pm Hartsfield

Join the Philharmonic Furs for a brass choir/chamber orchestra concert! We will organize a group of classical musicians within the fandom to rehearse and perform a small selection of public domain seasonal carols and classical pieces for con-goers' listening pleasure. We would like to organize the group before the convention and distribute music electronically to facilitate the event/panel, but any convention attendees with sight-reading skills and an instrument who would like to sit in with us would be more than welcome.

Photographer and Videographer Meet and Greet

8:00pm - 9:00pm Tech Center

Photographers and Videographers of the Fandom: this is your chance to meet other like-minded shutterbugs for a meet and greet at Midwest Furfest. We will also use this time to share photos and video compilations on a projector and discuss them. Bring yourself, your camera, and optionally 10-20 of your best photos or a one minute long clip of your video work to share with everyone on a thumb drive or SD card.

Fox and PepperCoyote

8:00pm - 9:00pm Grand Ballroom

Foxes and Peppers, the collab performance of Fox Amoore and Pepper Coyote is once again coming to MFF! Coming off of their newest album "Hashtag", as well as a future album that will see the both of them recording at Abbey Road Studios next year, Pepper Coyote and Fox Amoore are bringing their original music to the stage for the 2nd year in a row. Enjoy an hour of piano, singing, guitar, looping, downright fun and musical shenanigans, all rolled into one. No refunds given.

Furry Writers Guild Meet & Greet

8:00pm - 9:00pm McCarran

The Furry Writers Guild was founded in 2010 to promote anthropomorphic literature and provide support to furry writers through its website, blog, and forums. Whether you're a current member or are interested in learning more, come meet some of our members and learn how the guild works and how to partake of the resources available.

Erotica: Adult Writing

8:00pm - 9:30pm Sky Harbor

It's time to turn up the heat in your story! In this panel we discuss adult writing, covering not only the basics, but also such matters as the difference between romance, erotica, and porn, how much detail to provide and how to pace your scenes, and how these enticing elements can work together with the plot, characterization, and setting. 18 and above only; badges/IDs will be checked at the door.

Lupua In Tabula

8:00pm - 12:00am LAX

In this convention classic, players take on the role of a village with a werewolf problem. Their mission, identify and lynch the werewolves residing in their town before they're all turned into food. Of course, there's more than one secret being kept in the village...

Improv Charity Event

9:00pm - 10:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Come out and see some of the funniest people in the fandom performing in Improv games. This 100% off the cuff event will go to support our charity, so come one come all and see some of your favorite funny furs make fools of themselves. As with any Improv event, audience participation is bound to happen.

Kickstarter: How to market yourself to run a successful Kickstarter Campaign

9:00pm - 10:00pm Tech Center

Join Foxfeather and Balaa for an open format panel where we will discuss not only how to get your idea successfully funded on a crowd sourcing platform such as Kickstarter, but also how to create a cohesive visual brand for your product and how to market yourself to maximize the audience you reach. We might also end up sharing crazy bee, emu, and Africa stories. Join us for some facts and fun! If you are looking to launch your own Kickstarters, come ready with your questions and we will do our best to answer them!

Cards Against Humanity

9:00pm - 11:00pm Lambert

Comparative Anatomy 18+

9:00pm - 11:00pm John Wayne

Leave your taboos at the door! This panel is a tryst of fantasy and the unrestricted truth. Have a look at the mystery, wonder, and intimate details of reproduction in the animal kingdom as well as theoretical anthropomorphic creatures.

Transfurs

9:00pm - 11:00pm McCarran

Furry --- human, body --- soul, male --- female. Is life one, the other, or somewhere in between? Join us for a discussion about the shades of gray, how they affect our spirit, and our every day lives.

Battle Monsters – Dark Master

9:00pm - 12:00am Lindbergh

You and your Battle Monsters have fared well in the tournament preliminaries, but your team has been accosted by an ominous stranger whom outright attacks you! Can your Battle Monsters protect you and defeat this shadowy menace?

Erotica: Kinks and More

9:30pm - 10:30pm Sky Harbor

Adult writing isn't always plain vanilla. Some of us like to explore different, odd, and unusual desires. Come join us as we talk about the challenges and rewards of writing about the strange, secret and sometimes taboo worlds of kinks and fetishes. 18 and above only; badges/IDs will be checked at the door.

Raise the Ruff, Pup 101

9:30pm - 11:00pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

Join the Dogs of VAC Pack as we scratch the surface of Puppy Play. We will cover the basics of human animal role-play, gear, headspace, safety, toys, treats, as well as answer any questions you have. It doesn’t matter if you identify as Pup, Pet, Fur, Handler, Trainer, or just need to satisfy your curiosity, everyone is welcome. So come join the Tail-Wagging fun. (18+ Only - ID Required)

Femme Fursuit Photo Shoot

10:00pm - 11:00pm SeaTac

Do you have a feminine fursuit? Want our photographer to bring out your best? Join our photo shoot for group and individual shots with a selection of poses and props. Cute and innocent, butch and powerful, curvy, round, or lithe -- all shapes, styles, and sizes are welcome. (this event is for fursuiters and handlers only)

HTBH Games Demo

10:00pm - 11:00pm Liberty

HTBH Games is the producer of the visual novels Blackgate and Echo. Come view a demonstration by two members of the HTBH crew. 18+ only due to some adult content.

Lupus in Tabula

10:00pm - 12:00am Hartsfield

Welcome to the peaceful town of Tabula, where the wine runs like water. Lupus is a murder mystery to die for. Werewolves stalk the village at night, feasting upon the innocent villagers until the village finally figures out Ted from accounting is evil, but also happens to be a werewolf. This game will surely bring out your inner werewolf too----or werehamster.

Whose Lion is it Anyway

10:00pm - 12:00am Rosemont Ballroom

Join us for the original Whose Lion is it Anyway improv panel! This fully interactive panel will have you in stitches will you, the audience plays your favorite games with 2 of your favorite hosts! Come join us for a night of laughs and Alkali slapping his forehead.

Friday Dance

10:00pm - 2:00am Grand Ballroom

Shake your tails! Its time to dance! 10p -- Takum 11p -- Kihu 12a -- Recca 1a -- Treatz

Saturday, December 03, 2016

85 events

Albedo After Dark (18+ Only)

12:00am - 2:00am SeaTac

It seems as though an information broker (whom just so happens to be a manager at our favorite adult club), has requested another meeting! What could he possibly be after this time?

Greymuzzle Meetup

8:30am - 9:30am Hyatt Restaurant

All are welcome! Meeting at the hotel restaurant for breakfast

FVS Rehearsal #2

9:00am - 12:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Operations

9:00am - 2:00am Reagan

Tools and Technology

10:00am - 11:00am Sky Harbor

We've come a long way since the days of typewriters and submitting hardcopies by regular mail. Writers nowadays have word processors and various online tools at their disposal, and the submission process is almost always online. There are also many options for making your work available to your fans, including those who prefer e-books.

Gift Exchange

10:00am - 11:30am SeaTac

Sponsor Brunch

10:00am - 11:30am Grand Ballroom

Dragonstorm

10:00am - 1:00pm OHare

It's back! Bring your Dragonstorm character to play in an exciting adventure in the world of Grandillar, or generate a new character to start a brand new life of adventure as a shapeshifter! (Materials provided if you don't have a character already) 6 player slots avalible.

Artists Alley

10:00am - 6:00pm International Level

Dealers Den

10:00am - 6:00pm International Level

Registration

10:00am - 6:00pm United

After Registration closes, Temporary Badges good for one evening only can be obtained at Convention Operations

Art Show

10:00am - 7:00pm International Level

Bidding closes at 7pm!

MFF Poker Tournament

10:00am - 9:00pm Lindbergh

Secondary Gaming

10:00am - 2:00am Logan

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Table Top Gaming

10:00am - 2:00am OHare

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Using Clay to Help Drawing

11:00am - 12:00pm John Wayne

A common technique used by illustrators is the creation of "Maquettes". A clay model meant to assist with visualization. The panel will start out with a short speech explaining the benefits of creating a clay model. Examples will be passed around and afterwards, attendees will be given a handful of modeling clay to shape something on their own. Once their models are complete, we'll explore ways to use it for further work.

Furry TV Commercials 4

11:00am - 12:00pm Tech Center

Animals are a popular way to sell a product. We will be viewing and discussing TV commercials everyone should know, even non-furies. Audience participation is encouraged.

Raising Pygmy Goats

11:00am - 12:00pm McCarran

Goats are often an incredibly under-appreciated species but can be amazingly unique companions. Come learn about what it takes to raise pygmy goats, what you can expect from them as a pet, and some of the fun experiences we have had with them over the past two years.

How to Crowd Source

11:00am - 12:00pm Lambert

If you're looking to make money off your written work, one of your options is to crowdsource. At this panel you can learn some of the ins and outs of crowdsourcing your work.

Who Wants To Be A Voice Actor?

11:00am - 12:30pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

From Bugs Bunny to the Warner siblings, from Robin Hood to Nick Wilde, anthropomorphic characters have been talking to us since we were kids. Want to know what goes into bringing these characters to life? Join TimberPuppers of [Undertale + Voice Acting], Malcom AKA Zeke of Channel Awesome, KaiserNeko of Team Fourstar, and Edward Bosco of Dust: An Elysian Tail for an hour and a half of voice acting! We'll start off with a Q&A session where you can ask about anything related to voice acting, followed by an audience participation period where you'll be able to perform professional scripts with anthropomorphic characters! And if we have time at the end, a live performance of a bad script!

Busy Beaver with Betsy

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hartsfield

Come learn from a busy beaver how to stay motivated and productive while working with a large commission queue

What It Takes to Write: Process, Discipline, and Lifestyle

12:00pm - 1:00pm Tech Center

Writing can be very rewarding, but it takes time and discipline. How often have you heard someone say they can't find the time to write, or can't get their mind working in the right direction? As with any worthwhile goal, there are obstacles to be overcome and processes to be learned. In this panel we talk about how writers write, and the writer's lifestyle.

Two Rooms and a Boom!

12:00pm - 2:00pm Sky Harbor

Intrigue, lies, deceit, and occasional bouts of improv! This fun new party game for all kinds of players is incredibly quick to learn, and takes only a few minutes to play a round. If you like party games like Mafia/Lupus, then this is worth checking out.

Fursuit Menagerie

12:30pm - 3:00pm Grand Ballroom

Come on down to the main ballroom for a chance to meet other fursuiters, take group photos, and ham it up for the crowd! Starting at 12:30pm and running until 3pm, the FurFest Fursuit Menagerie is a great place to show off your costumes and mingle with attendees. We'll have some light game-like activities, background music and group-photo areas setup. We'll also have additional water stations available in the Rosemont Ballroom during the Menagerie (no photos in this room, please) We've attached both the convention space map, AND the Group Photo Shoot Schedule (see the attached schedule below) Note - Originally, we had been asking each group-photo submitter to help provide their own photographer. Thanks to a huge outreach from volunteer photographers within the community, we will be able to provide a photographer dedicated to each station during the menagerie. So folks can just show up at the booth for the scheduled time they'd like, and we'll take care of the rest! We'll be posting all photos online into Flickr after the event.

Video Gaming

12:30pm - 2:00am Midway

See the separate Video Gaming Schedule in your Pocket Program for more details.

How to Commission Art

1:00pm - 2:00pm McCarran

The fundamentals on how to find and approach artists, commission art, and client etiquette. We'll talk about reference sheets, choosing an artist, artist-client communication, and basic copyright.

Furry Text Adventures

1:00pm - 2:00pm Liberty

Gather round, literally, and make your way through some old school text adventures! Draggor, your host, will be subbing in for the computer, so sassy replies are to be expected from sassy commands. If multiplayer Zork sounds fun to you, join us!

Novel Writing

1:00pm - 2:00pm Lambert

Want to write a novel but don't know where to start? Stuck in the middle of your first draft? An experienced novel writer shares tips and advice on the daunting task of writing a novel.

Furry Pictionary

1:00pm - 3:00pm DFW

Furry Pictionary, the classic drawing game with a furry twist! The audience is divided into two groups - the Canines vs. the Non-Canines - and we find out who best can draw furry fandom and general animal related things in a heated competition for species bragging rights! How it works: The subjects to be drawn are written on note cards before the panel starts. At the start of each round, the artists from each team are shown a card and begin drawing using white boards and dry erase markers (which I can bring). Each round lasts no more than 60 seconds, and ends when either an audience member correctly guesses the subject or time runs out. If a correct guess is made, that team gets a point and the next round begins. Points are tallied at the end of the last round and the team with the most points wins! This is a panel I have run twice before at smaller furry conventions, and both times it has been greatly successful. I would very much appreciate the chance to run this game at MFF to a hopefully larger audience than I have had in the past.

Secondary Fursuit Lounge (During the Menagerie)

1:00pm - 3:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

To help give performers some additional space to hydrate and cool-down, during the Menagerie, the Rosemont ballroom will have water stations and space to relax. The main Fursuit Lounge (Grand C), will also be open during this time. Please, no photography inside the Rosemont Ballroom during the Menagerie. And please, no photography at all inside the main Fursuit Lounge.

HIV Testing by Sinai Health Systems (Free)

1:00pm - 4:00pm TBA

Delivered by Sinai Health Systems, and at no-cost to MFF attendees. Health, well being and personal safety are important to all of us. MFF is inviting anyone interested to stop by Directors A/B rooms (off the hallway to the right, on your way to the Hyatt Regency Executive tower) for free HIV testing. Sinai Health Systems will be providing rapid HIV testing. Individuals consenting to testing will have the ability to “Know their Status” within 60 seconds. Additionally, counseling on testing outcomes, prevention information, condoms, as well as immediate referrals for individuals who screen reactive for HIV, and referrals for PrEP “High Risk Negatives” will be available.. All testing will be confidential. Results disclosure, referrals, and any information discussed in the private area is strictly between the person providing the screening service and the individual being screened.

Designing & Drawing Believable Creatures with Rhos

2:00pm - 3:00pm John Wayne

Explore different elements of complex creature design with professional freelance illustrator Lindsey “Rhos” Burcar in an hour of jam-packed artistic tips and techniques to make your creatures more believable and visually dynamic. Improve your beasts, from dragons to werewolves, by referencing source material from the natural world combined with your imagination. www.LindseyBurcar.com

The Dictionary Game

2:00pm - 3:00pm SeaTac

dactylology--"it's the study of flying dinosaurs!" "No! It's the study of how 'dact' you can be!" What is the definition? That's for everyone to guess at and for us to put up for a vote! Points happen, someone wins. Smartphones (something with internet access) required to play.

New Release Reading

2:00pm - 3:00pm Tech Center

Come relax and listen as furry writers read selections from new and forthcoming works.

Fursuit Price Is Right

2:00pm - 3:30pm LAX

This is the fursuiter version of The Price Is Right, where fursuiters are asked to come on down to contestants row. Winner plays a pricing game, and goes on to the Showcase Showdown. The winner of the Showcase Showdown goes on to The Showcase and the one fursuiter that has won the most in cash and prizes wins a badge commission.

Suicide Awareness

2:30pm - 4:00pm Sky Harbor

Please join us as we go over facts and myths about suicide, myths that hurt our community specifically, some empathy evoking exercises, and basic first aid for people who are throwing up red flags.

DISCIPLINE! Draw better than lesser individuals.

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hartsfield

Get scared of blank pages? Not sure how to kick your own butt into high gear? It sounds like you lack... DISCIPLINE! Discipline is the key to being a better artist, drawing epic-length comics, and impressing cool people. Join us as David Lillie ("The 'Dreamkeepers' Guy"), Bone (The 'False Start' Guy), and Talenshi (The "I did a bunch of covers for 'Sofa Wolf' books lady") tell you, the captivated audience, how to draw everyday and get addicted to it. If you have a dream, heart, and grit to spare then this panel will put magma in your heart, lightning in your brain, and the power of an earthquake into your art regiment! Naturally, there will be a Q&A during the latter half of the panel.

Hooray for Hoofers

3:00pm - 4:00pm DFW

Equines and other hoofed members of the furry community are welcome for a discussion about their draw to equines, their favorites, and experiences with other hooved species.

Editing and Revising

3:00pm - 4:00pm Lambert

So you've written a story. Good for you! But chances are there are problems you might not have seen, parts that don't flow well or need to be fleshed out better, inconsistencies and continuity errors. Here we talk about the process of editing and fixing those problems. We also discuss finding others to help edit and improve your stories, as well as editing others' stories to help them improve theirs.

Adding Useless Electronics to Your Fursuit

3:00pm - 4:30pm John Wayne

Want to make your fursuit look around or make its ears wiggle? Maybe you're a dragon and you'd like to really breathe smoke? Or just add a boat load of LED lights to your stuff? Firr will show you how!

Un-Blockage: Getting Unstuck and Completing Awesome Projects You Are Putting Off

3:00pm - 4:30pm SeaTac

What's keeping you from working on or completing that Really Cool Thing you want to do? Having difficulty making progress on personal creative projects? Have some exciting goals but accomplishing them seems daunting? Come hear some motivating and inspiring stories, ideas, philosophies of constructive problem solving, and things to think about to help you get past those annoying blockages and on to Doing Your Awesome Stuff! Presentation to be followed by Q&A.

My Little Pony: Friendship is Ironclaw

3:00pm - 6:00pm OHare

Flutterwho? The animals seem to be in a tizzy about that pink-maned Pegasus who has not been talking to them like they want. How can it be that there's some pony who looks just like Fluttershy nearby. It is someone different from her, isn't it? 6 player slots available

The Leopard Sun – The Art, The World, The Philosophy

4:00pm - 5:00pm Tech Center

The Leopard Sun is an upcoming novel by long-time fandom artists Balaa ( Elbereth ) & Bagheera ( Lórien ), with a story set against the backdrop of the majestic Serengeti and featuring an extensive cast of African wildlife. Come join them for an exclusive first look of the stunning artworks, fascinating world, and engage in a philosophical dialogue with the authors about the meanings of the story and their inspirations. Learn how you can contribute to this project and help bring this ambitious dream into the world. BONUS: Receive a free, limited edition The Leopard Sun poster with your attendance! Offer only available while supplies last (30 copies).

'Fursuit Paws' group photo

4:00pm - 5:00pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

Uni-fur-sity: Balancing the Furry Community with an Academic Career

4:00pm - 5:00pm LAX

College students make up approximately one-fifth of the furry fandom! (Furry Poll 2015). So how do you balance time spent with the furry community vs. time spent working towards your academic career?

Getting Published

4:00pm - 5:00pm Lambert

Are you ready to see your name in print? It's not enough to write the great American furry novel; you'll need to get someone to publish it. In this panel we discuss what it takes to get your stories, long and short, in front of editors and publishers who will help your story find an audience, and how to work with them to get published.

Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind

4:00pm - 5:30pm Grand Ballroom

We are proud to welcome back one of the most talked-about events from last year’s Midwest FurFest. The NeoFuturists are one of the most innovative theater groups in Chicago, and are the creators of the long-running play 'Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind'. 'Too Much Light…' is a rollicking, exciting, hilarious, thought-provoking, and at times interactive attempt to perform 30 plays in 60 minutes. The NeoFuturists will be preparing a performance specially tailored to Midwest FurFest and furry fandom; you don't want to miss it!

Fursuit Dance Comp - Group Practice

4:00pm - 6:00pm DFW

Fursuit MacGyver Competition

4:00pm - 6:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Shamelessly stolen from Texas Furry Fiesta! What happens when a fursuit builder is put in a room and given a short time to build a partial? CAN THEY DO IT?!?!?! Come find out! NOTE: This is not a real fursuit construction panel – this is just entertainment! Some really, really funny entertainment!

Battle Monsters - The Corrupted Coliseum!

4:00pm - 6:00pm OHare

Just when you thought things couldn't get any better, an evil reveals itself from within the tournament, and it's up to YOU to make things right!

Artists Ally Sign-up for Sunday

4:00pm - 6:00pm International Level

Fursuit Photoshoot

4:00pm - 7:00pm McCarran

Work that tail! Stop on by and mug for our camera, and get some wonderful fursuit pictures to remember the con by!

Rocket League 2v2 Tournament

4:00pm - 8:00pm Midway

Vine Furs Meet

5:00pm - 6:00pm Lambert

A panel where people can get hands-on experience with making vines. All furs are welcome, though it focuses on making vines, we encourage others to come and join in on the fun of acting and producing these short videos!

Fifty Shades of Purple: Asexuality in the Furry Fandom

5:00pm - 6:00pm SeaTac

Asexuality is an orientation that is largely overshadowed by other parts of the LGBTQPA Community. However, more education and awareness is helping this community step into the limelight. Aces can meet other Aces and non-Aces can learn more about us and what we're all about.

Furry Psychology

5:00pm - 6:00pm Sky Harbor

Join our panel of psychologists and psychologists-in-training to talk about all sorts of fun and furry topics from the lens of psychology. Come enjoy our professionally trained team's perspectives on topics such as what might motivate people to enjoy roleplaying or fursuiting, gender and sexuality, and more.

Smackdown!

5:00pm - 6:30pm Hartsfield

Have you ever wondered what would happen in a cage match to the death of fictional furry characters? Our panelists go through a bracket of 16 contestants and add some humor on which one will survive, The Smackdown!

Fursuiting Outside the Fandom

5:00pm - 6:30pm LAX

Tired of just suiting at cons and meets? Take your character on the road! Fursuiting outside the fandom is a fun and rewarding experience where you can bring a little magic in to people's everyday lives. This panel goes beyond the introductory "outside the fandom" panel and focuses on small group outings and strategies for positive engagement. The panel will also cover tips and tricks for logistics, props, and handling techniques. In addition to our own examples of outside the fandom suiting, we will be looking to hear from the participants on their own experiences.

Creative Avian Anatomy

5:00pm - 7:00pm John Wayne

Aetus is an avian veterinarian and digital artist and will present avian anatomy tailored for creative expression. Photos and drawings will be used to explain real anatomy, how it compares to humans, and how the two might look when blended together. There will be a section where the audience can ask questions and Aetus will discuss or illustrate the answers live. The audience can also submit art examples and he will sketch out how the anatomy might look. Examples can be emailed to [email protected] .

[email protected]

5:00pm - 7:00pm John Wayne

Skunks Don't Stink

6:00pm - 7:00pm DFW

Skunks, show yourselves! Skunkie Meet n greet for all those stinkers that haven't had their butts turned into rugs! Come and meet the other Mephits at the con. If you have a suit, wear it; we'll have a photoshoot after the panel.

Super Password

6:00pm - 7:00pm Lambert

It's the classic secret word game with a twist! Each round is a puzzle. Each password in a round is a clue towards a secret person, place, or thing to guess at. No game show is complete without celebrity guests and this panel will have them!

Trans 101

6:00pm - 7:00pm Sky Harbor

What does trans mean? What are the right words to say, and how do you know? These questions are becoming more important as time passes. Help us answer these and other questions!

Shake Your Tail Feathers!

7:00pm - 8:00pm LAX

Are you tired of not being appreciated for your fluff? Are those out dated, theme park engineered raptors giving you sass for your immaculate crest? Tell them to kiss your tail because this panel is just for you and your feathery brethren! And not just raptors, Theropods of all shapes, sizes, ans varying degrees of plumage are welcome! Come join your fellow fluffy butts for a meeting of the claws to discuss all thing great about being a scientifically accurate Dinosaur!

The 3 Headed Monster

7:00pm - 8:00pm Hartsfield

Three 20 minute stand up shows combined into one! The Three Headed Monster is back once again to prove to themselves that stage fright can be overcome by persistence, practice and tequila. Room Set up: Stage or open space in the front of room, Theater seating, Microphone(s)

Okami: The Tales Behind the Tail

7:00pm - 8:00pm Tech Center

Watch, listen, and learn as Yume Kitsune and Tikikata follow Amaterasu (from the cult classic video game Okami) throughout Nippon, and discuss her adventures. See the game in a new light, as we talk about the myths and folklore that went into the game. Hear about different concepts and designs that went into Okami. And discover a new perspective for some well known characters.

Mystery and Noir

7:00pm - 8:00pm Lambert

Crime scenes and whodunits. Gumshoes and smoke-filled rooms. Do you knowhow to build a good mystery, or to create the right atmosphere for a noir story? Come join us for a chance to talk about what it takes to create a good mystery or noir story.

RAWR: A Furry Writing Workshop

7:00pm - 8:00pm Liberty

Did you know there's an annual five-day workshop just for furry writers? That's what RAWR, the Regional Anthropomorphic Writers Retreat is. Come listen in and ask questions as two of the organizers present an overview.

Furry Variety Show

7:00pm - 8:30pm Rosemont Ballroom

The FVS is a non-competitive variety show. It's a bit of Vaudeville, and sort of like the Muppet Show. Come by and watch your fellow furs show their talents. If you want to be in the show and have an act, come to the first rehearsal. If you want to be in the show but don't have an act, join us and we'll try to add you to an existing act. We prefer to have our performers contact us several weeks before the con, but we will take performers as late as Friday evening. The basic rules are a three minute time limit, not TOO adult content, and some sort of tie in to furry. Our show is Saturday evening. We have TWO rehearsals (Friday Afternoon and Saturday Morning). The MFF Furry Variety Show also welcomes video content in the show if submitted in advance. See the web page for more details.

Therianthropy

7:00pm - 9:00pm Sky Harbor

How often do you feel your tail, wings, horns, or other parts, even if they aren't physical? Join us for discussion and camraderie!

Floor Wars

7:00pm - 9:30pm Grand Ballroom

Last-Fur-One is back again with Floor Wars, hosting its 5th edition at Midwest Furfest! Come and watch the fiercest dancers in the fandom battle in teams and individually to prove who's on top.

Your Imagined Furry Fantasy (18+ Only!) - The Vast Deferens

7:00pm - 10:00pm OHare

“The Vast Deferens” – A new world has been unveiled through a portal recently opened in the Temple of Eros! What excitement and adventures are to be had on the forested expanses found on the other side?

Furry Speed Mingle

8:00pm - 9:00pm LAX

Ever at a con and want to meet new furs, or maybe even meet your furture mate. Come on down to the Furry Speed Mingle where you will be able to meet new furries.

Action and Thrillers

8:00pm - 9:00pm John Wayne

Epic battles and car chases! Heroes making narrow escapes. Many of the most popular movies are packed with action, thrills at every turn. On this panel we discuss action and thrillers and offer tips to writers hoping to bring this kind of experience to their readers.

Adult Drawing Helpful Hints

8:00pm - 9:30pm Tech Center

A panel to help you draw better adult art, from poses to anatomy. Ask questions and learn!

Non-monogamous Furry Relationships 101

8:00pm - 10:00pm Lambert

Are you in a relationship, but thinking of adding an additional mate? Have you considered an open relationship, but weren't sure what that would mean for your existing relationship? Are you single, and considering dating a couple, or joining up with an existing pack? Come to Non-monogamous Furry Relationships 101, where you will learn how to practice non-monogamy ethically, with the full enthusiastic consent of all parties involved. Topics covered will include non-violent communication strategies, conflict resolution, ethical compromise, radical honesty, informed consent, safer sex practices, relationship structures (traditional monogamy, "monogamish" relationships, open relationships, polyamory, and relationship anarchy), personal boundaries, relationship rules, handling rejection, and how and when to say no. Presentation to be followed by Q&A.

The Run Away Groom

8:00pm - 12:00am OHare

Dragget Show Live

9:00pm - 10:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Join Xander the Dragon, Alkali the Ferret, and a special guest or 2. These guys record a podcast LIVE AT MFF! Come watch as they talk about anything and everything and nothing. 18+ because Alkali will be there. Come for the panel, and stay for the “turn off your camera’s and recording devices, lets tell you something stupid about Alkali for charity” story. Once again, 18+.

No Bones About It, Pup 201

9:00pm - 10:30pm Convention Ctr Rm 21

So you have a handle on the basics of puppy play but are barking for more? Pawsome. Come join the Dogs of VAC Pack as we dig deeper into headspace, relationship dynamics, collars, training and other puppy play topics. Your barks will guide the discussion. It doesn’t matter if you identify as Pup, Pet, Fur, Handler, Trainer, or just need to satisfy your curiosity, everyone is welcome. So come join the Tail-Wagging fun. So come with your ears perked and ready to learn. (18+ Only - ID Required)

Leopardy!

9:00pm - 11:00pm Liberty

Leopardy! is a furry take on the classic TV quiz show of a similar name. Three teams of 2-3 players will have to work through the board, testing their knowledge of both fandom-related and general trivia to win fabulous prizes. If you and your friends have what it takes. Just don't forget to answer in the form of a question. Sign ups will be done during the first 10 minutes of the panel, inside the room

Lupus in Tabula

9:00pm - 11:00pm Lindbergh

Fox and PepperCoyote - After Dark

10:00pm - 12:00am Rosemont Ballroom

You'll want to take a peek at the main show description, but add to that a lot more swearing, arguing, dirty songs (by Pepper) and angry Scottish insults (aimed at Pepper) by Fox.

TransFurs AD

10:00pm - 12:00am Lambert

We all know there are things we just can't say at any point. This goes double when dealing with all those pesky body parts. Come join us for a discussion of the every day issues, with a more adult tone.

Saturday Dance

10:00pm - 2:00am Grand Ballroom

Shake your tails! Its time to dance! 10p -- Toby Dingo 11p -- Foxsky 12a -- Tekfox 1a -- Darroh

Albedo After Dark 2 (18+ Only!)

11:00pm - 2:00am OHare

Returning to bar with news of either your success or defeat from the previous After Dark session, you will be filled in with some or lots of intel that might just give you the edge you need over an old enemy. Is it too late to put a stop to them?

Sunday, December 04, 2016

46 events

Art Auction

9:00am - 10:30am Rosemont Ballroom

Don't let those people who slightly upped your written bid walk away with that fabulous art! Show them who's got what it takes and knows what it's really worth! Besides, the auctioneers are always a hoot!

Con Suite

9:00am - 5:00pm Grand AB

Operations

9:00am - 9:00pm Reagan

To Absent Friends

10:00am - 11:00am SeaTac

A time and place to remember those who, for whatever reason, are unable to join us at Midwest Furfest this year. To our absent friends: you are missed, you are loved, but you are not forgotten.

Fursuit Jerseys Photoshoot

10:00am - 11:00am Conference Center Foyer

A Midwest FurFest tradition continues with this year's Fursuit Jerseys Photoshoot. Sports fans, get your fursuits and jerseys on and show the love for your favorite teams! We'll have some big group shots, and smaller group and individual shots for those who want them. Sports equipment (balls, sticks, etc.) is welcome!

Christian Furs Fellowship

10:00am - 11:00am John Wayne

This is a gathering of furries that follow Christ or want to know more. There will be open discussion time. Everyone is welcome!

Casting and Molding Q & A

10:00am - 11:30am Hartsfield

For anyone interested in exploring casting, Drakonic will answer your questions and explain the process!

Costume Perfomance with Scooby and the Gang

10:00am - 11:30am Convention Ctr Rm 21

From Benny the Bull to Darth Vader, nearly everyone has seen someone performing in a costume. Whether it's mascot, movie costume or fursuit, these performers bring to life fully flushed out characters, sometimes without the use of facial or audible cues. Join Edward Bosco (Scooby Doo, Darth Vadar and others) and his panel of performers Yippee Coyote AuraPuffs, Doryuu, Atimist and Wolfpup TK as they discuss the difference between mascots and fursuits, how to fully realize a character and what makes a performance pop. There will also be a chance to ask questions, workshop audience member's characters and perhaps a brief performance by one of our panelists!

Fox Hunt

10:00am - 11:30am Sky Harbor

Learn how to use radio direction finding techniques and put them to the test to find the "fox" transmitter roaming around the con! A stationary fox will also be deployed to help demonstrate the idea to beginners, as well as a moving fox to provide a challenge to both new and the experienced. Those with their own VHF/UHF receivers or scanners are recommended to bring those to use themselves or as part of a team, although no equipment or experience is necessary to participate.

Fursuit Photoshoot

10:00am - 2:00pm North Central

Work that tail! Stop on by and mug for our camera, and get some wonderful fursuit pictures to remember the con by!

Registration

10:00am - 2:00pm United

After Registration closes, Temporary Badges good for one evening only can be obtained at Convention Operations

MFF Poker Tournament

10:00am - 3:00pm Lindbergh

Artists Alley

10:00am - 4:00pm International Level

Dealers Den

10:00am - 4:00pm International Level

Secondary Gaming

10:00am - 6:00pm Logan

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Table Top Gaming

10:00am - 6:00pm OHare

General Gaming - See separate Gaming Schedule in your Pocket-Program for more details

Flying furs

11:00am - 12:00pm DFW

Calling all aviation furries! A meet and greet for all aspects of flying; pilots, ATC, mechanics, RC, models, sims. If you like things that fly this is for you!

Midwest Furry Fandom, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting

11:00am - 12:00pm SeaTac

The annual meeting for the Board of Directors for Midwest Furry Fandom, Inc., the parent corporation of Midwest FurFest. This meeting is open to the public! Please note that this meeting is intended for corporate, not convention, business. Issues with the convention itself should be brought to the feedback session at Closing Ceremonies.

Terms of Service 101

11:00am - 12:00pm Lambert

Are you new to selling art or interested in taking the next step in your business? This panel is for those looking to write that perfect ToS. We’ll cover what a ToS is for, what you can’t enforce, and what you need to include to protect yourself as an artist and your customers.

Transformation

11:00am - 12:00pm McCarran

Polymorph spells, species-altering viruses, and the beast within. Come sit in on this panel where we discuss a genre where furries have something to explore not often seen in other genres: the transformation story.

Charity Auction

11:00am - 1:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Wonderful donated artwork and other mysterious donated items! Outbid your buddies, and grab the best stuff! Even better, you can be smug in the knowledge that your greed and good taste are also helping this year's charity. Every great item that you covet and win here is a donation that will help these hard-working folks continue their work. What could be a better deal?

Ironclaw: The Prince's Whim 2

11:00am - 3:00pm OHare

Once Again, the Crown Prince wishes to enlist your services to have some adventuring fun. This time, however, he has a purpose, of vital importance to national security! 8 player slots available

Old-School Gamers Meet

12:00pm - 1:00pm McCarran

It's the official FurAaffinity meet up for Old school gamers! We will discuss retro-gaming, collecting and anything else that comes up! DJ Snowfang, Ian and Fluffy griffon with be hosting.

History of Furry Literature

12:00pm - 1:00pm John Wayne

The earliest stories that feature animals date back thousands of years but a lot has changed over time in the realm of anthropomorphic literature, much of it since the early days of furry fandom. This presentation will give a brief overview of the history of furry literature.

Not Humans With Fur

12:00pm - 1:00pm Lambert

One of the common recommendations for writers is to make certain that your characters are more than "Humans with Fur". From the clothing that your characters wear to the technology they use, Aaron Blackpaw, design engineer by day and writer by night, explores how technology and society would be different for denizens of our stories. And perhaps how that difference can be used to further the story we want to tell while still not leaving the reader in the cold.

Art Show (Pickup and Checkout)

12:00pm - 5:00pm International Level

Video Gaming

12:00pm - 6:00pm Midway

See the separate Video Gaming Schedule in your Pocket Program for more details.

Quipfur

1:00pm - 2:00pm SeaTac

Come play Quipfur, an audience participation game where you get to see the panelists come up with silly, weird, and occasionally shocking answers! Vote for what you like best, then wait for the reveal of who's got a more twisted mind. If you're willing, you might even be able to challenge a panelist yourself!

Building an Audience

1:00pm - 2:00pm Lambert

One of the most frustrating challenges for any writer is getting people to read their work and follow it. There are no easy answers, but there are certain things you can do to increase your visibility.

Ham Radio Exam

1:00pm - 2:30pm Hartsfield

Come score your amateur radio license from the comfort of the con! Be sure to bring: A legal photo ID or two forms of identification (non-photo ID, birth certificate, library card, social security card, current student ID, and/or postmarked utility bill). Know your Social Security Number (SSN) or FCC Federal Registration Number (FRN). If upgrading, a photocopy of your current license, or the originals and photocopies of any Certificates of Successful Completion of Examination (CSCE) from previous exam sessions if credit is required. A calculator with memory erased and formulas cleared is allowed. Cell phones must be silenced or turned off during the exam session and the phones' calculator function may not be used. A check, money order, or cash to cover the $15 exam fee.

Fursuit Dance Competition

1:00pm - 3:00pm Grand Ballroom

The time has come to see who's got the best moves and who can shake their tails the best! All attendees are welcome to come witness the finalists of MFF's Annual Fursuit Dance Competition show off their performances for dance supremacy to determine who will be declared this year's best fursuit dancer!

Furs of Youtube

2:00pm - 3:00pm SeaTac

Youtube is a platform that we all know about, but more and more there are furs popping up as video producers. Sharing con vids, sharing thoughts on important topics, doing let's plays, ranting about things big and small, and even talking furry art, furs are doing it all. If you're interested in getting into youtube, have been doing it for years, or just want to know what furs are up to on youtube, drop on by and meet others who share your interest and passion, learn about other people's techniques, and maybe set up a collaboration with a new friend.

Scribble N Bits

2:00pm - 3:00pm Lambert

"It was a dark and stormy night," except then it wasn't. We're furries; we can do better than Paul Clifford! Come join the game where with your smartphone you propose the next line of a growing story, and by vote we add one of those lines into the story. I'm sure we'll end up with the next great piece of furry fanfiction!

Romance

2:00pm - 3:00pm McCarran

Looking to write a good bodice-ripper? This panel will offer tips on what makes a good romance and how to write one.

Battle Monsters – Dark Master’s Return

2:00pm - 4:00pm OHare

Airbrushing 101 and demonstration

3:00pm - 4:00pm Sky Harbor

Covering the Do's and Dont's of airbrushing, with a live demonstration by Drakonic

Convention War Stories

3:00pm - 4:00pm DFW

Come out and see what happens behind the closed doors of conventions. Sit back and listen to the stories that you were never meant to find out about from our panel of convention staff and board members. Enjoy the stories and find out why that cop was shaking his head well laughing. Needs 2 tables w/ Mics at the front of the room

Fursuit Maintenance

3:00pm - 4:00pm LAX

This panel will provide basic tips and tricks for fursuit maintenance! Simple approaches to keep your fursuit clean and nice.

Geocaching

3:00pm - 4:00pm McCarran

Geocaching is a world wide treasure hunt game that a lot of people take part in, even furries. This will be a meet and greet between many furry geocachers from all parts of the country and/or world.

Science Fiction and Fantasy

3:00pm - 4:00pm Lambert

Space and time travel. Swords and sorcery. As we explore the realms of science fiction and fantasy there are many worlds to explore and to play in as we create our stories, whether they be epic quests filled with wonder, exploring uncharted places, or clawing out an existence in a dystopian wasteland. Come sit withus as we discuss how to weave tales that include elements of science, magic, or some combination of the two.

Fursuit Games

3:00pm - 5:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

Come join us for a fun and exciting event where you romp around in fursuit, entertain yourself and others, and play silly games in order to find who is the best fursuiter! This event is open to all who want to participate or spectate! This is a great opportunity to get exposure to your costumes, to see fursuiters play games, and take lots of pictures!

Closing Ceremonies

5:00pm - 6:00pm Grand Ballroom

Where did the weekend go? At the Closing Ceremonies for Midwest FurFest 2016, we'll let you in on anything you may have missed. We'll also be recognizing all of the talented winners of various contests held throughout the convention. And, at the end, we'll have a feedback/Q+A session to help improve Midwest FurFest for next year.

BYOG Tabletop Gaming until 11pm

6:00pm - 11:00pm OHare

Staff Appreciation Dinner

7:00pm - 10:00pm Rosemont Ballroom

All badged staff members are welcome to attend this very special 'Thank You' dinner on Sunday evening, in the Rosemont Ballroom Thank you for all your hard work!!

Art Jam

7:00pm - 11:00pm Hartsfield

First-come seating - but all are welcome as long as space is available!

Dead Dog Dance

9:00pm - 12:00am Grand Ballroom

Cap off your con experience and wipe away those blues at the Dead Dog Dance! 9p -- Thumper 9:45p -- Spots 10:30p -- Nightkat 11:15p -- Pyrferno