PyCon US 2026 Returns to West Coast, Calls for Entertainment Industry Python Talks

PyCon US 2026, the largest annual gathering for the Python programming community, is set to return to the US west coast, taking place in Long Beach, California, from May 13-19, 2026. This highly anticipated event will feature a dedicated push for presentations highlighting Python's extensive applications within the entertainment industry, as championed by a prominent community figure. The conference aims to showcase the language's diverse utility across various sectors.

Simon Willison, a well-regarded developer and frequent PyCon speaker, recently issued a public call for proposals to address this specialized area. He stated in a social media post, "> I'd love to see some talks about how Python is used in the entertainment industry - if you know someone who works with Python in that space please encourage them to submit a talk!" This initiative aims to showcase the language's critical role in creative workflows, bridging the gap between technical development and artistic production.

Python has long been an indispensable tool across various facets of the entertainment industry, from visual effects (VFX) and animation to game development and interactive media. Studios and developers leverage Python for scripting complex 3D software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, and SideFX Houdini, automating production pipelines, and managing vast digital assets. Its versatility extends to areas such as character rigging, animation control, and even backend services for streaming platforms and game telemetry.

The selection of Long Beach, California, a region synonymous with both technological innovation and the entertainment capital of the world, provides a fitting backdrop for this specialized focus. PyCon US consistently attracts thousands of developers, offering an unparalleled platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and celebrating advancements in the Python ecosystem. The emphasis on entertainment industry talks is expected to draw a diverse array of professionals from film, television, and gaming, further broadening the conference's appeal and demonstrating Python's profound impact on modern media production.