Ixapod
South Carolina person here:
There needs to be something in Atlanta (GA)
That's usually where the con's and cool stuff happen.
Oh, there is. This weekend is Anachrocon. It's only in it's 2nd year but the couple who started it is absolutely lovely. It went from a 1 day gathering with some of our(awesome) local SP's, including the fabulous Outland Armour and The Extraordinary Contraptions, to a 3 day con with some of the most amazing panels EVAR.
I'm very excited to go. 1-day passes will still be available at the door, if any wants to go.
For everyone looking for events in their area I recommend this site:
http://steampunk.ning.com/The events list is pretty comprehensive.