Attending science fiction and fantasy conventionss is an exciting part of fandom, where you get to meet your favorite stars, interact with other fans, and of course, dress up! Cosplay is one of the most fun things about science fiction and fantasy fandom. Here are the major events scheduled for the rest of 2011.
Renovation, the World Science Fiction Convention
To be held in Reno, Nevada on August 17-21 2011. This is the annual convention of the World Science Fiction Society (WSFS), which has been held over five days since 1939. Up to 6000 attendees regularly fly in from all over the world, no matter where it is held. This year sees the presentation of the HUGO awards take place. Among the guests is fantasy artist Boris Vallejo, whose artworks are legendary among fantasy fans. There will be entertainment by the Celtic folk rock band Tricky Pixie. Sign up at the website renovationsf.org
Dragoncon
Held in Atlanta, Georgia on September 2-5 2011, Dragoncon is celebrating it�s 10th year as the biggest fan convention of them all. This year, the guests will include writers Terry Brooks and Anne McCaffery, and actors William Shatner and Kate Mulgrew among many others. so far 193 guests and performers have been confirmed. A highlight of the con is the huge costume parade. All details are at dragoncon.org
Fantasycon
Held at the historic Royal Albion Hotel in Brighton, UK on September 30-October 2, this convention will feature the much admired writer Brian Aldiss, and the presentation of the British Fantasy awards. Details at fantasycon2011.org
World Fantasy Convention
Held at San Diego, California on October 27-30. Among the guests this year will be fantasy writer Neil Gaiman, author of Coraline. The convention sold out in record time and is now fully booked, but there is a wait list in case of cancelations. This year�s theme is �Sailing the Seas of Imagination�, so expect a lot of pirates! More info at wfc2011.org
Festival of Fantastic Films
Held in Manchester, UK on October 21-23, this is THE event for science fiction, fantasy and horror movie fans, with old and new movies running continuously. The guests this year are actors Derek Fowlds and Derren Nesbitt, and script supervisor Renee Glynn. Among the highlights are the movie memorabilia auction, and screenings of indie movies and short films from all over the world. Details at fantastic-films.com
So start making those costumes - and don�t forget your camera and your autograph book.
