Hark, weary traveller. Come, sit by the hearth and eat of good fare while I tell the tale of the inaugural Georgian Bay FanCon held in Meaford on Saturday, October 26.
What is FanCon, one might ask? Well, it is the condensed term for Fandom Convention, a gathering of souls passionate for the fantastical, the terrific, and the otherworldly. Comers are encouraged to wear their favourite costumes to display their loyalty and they came out in full force, dressed to the nines. From Supernatural to Star Trek to Steampunk, all corners of the vast Fan-verse were represented.
Throughout the event, a group of adventurers played Dungeons and Dragons on a custom table, available to win, guided through perils by their Dungeon Master. Boppy K-pop music pumped through the venue as the Sudbury K-Pop Project performed choreographed dances, and over thirty vendors showed their wares from collectibles to comic books, to buttons and pins. Red Seal Chef Christina Sheardown provided sustenance with her fantasy-themed tavern food, ‘Laughing Beholder Tavern’. Jonathan Craig of Craig Gallery had a booth showing his FX makeup and prosthetics, and Scenic City Game Emporium of Owen Sound gave demonstrations of board games. Author E.K. Johnston (A Thousand Nights, Aetherbound, Ahsoka) was present selling personally signed copies.
From the moment of entry to exit, participants were entertained, dazzled, and immersed in all forms of fandom in an encouraging and safe environment.
Organizer Brandon Forder said, “The key was immersion into fandom for all.” He and his wife Angela, who kick-started and coordinated the event, wanted to create a safe and inclusive space for people of all fandoms. A great group of volunteers were the foundation of the event and many came forward asking how they could help and be involved for a future convention. Forder also said that the event exceeded expectations and was full of a diversity of fandoms. Attendance was high with a steady stream of visitors throughout the day. News of the event spread far and wide with people coming to Meaford from the GTA for the day just to attend.
Alas, my tale comes to a close, but the adventure is not finished. Spread the word of Georgian Bay FanCon to all your friends and allies and perhaps we will be gathering again soon for another meeting of fans from all corners of the multiverse.
