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What happens at a sci-fi convention?
Events vary depending on the individual convention, but here are some of the most common items. Check a conventions website or other information for details about a partcular show you are interested in.
- Q&A Sessions: Question and answer sessions with the guest celebrities. Find out about how a show or movie was made, what the star thinks of this or that, etc. Think of it as a mass interview session! Usually a lot of fun!
- Autograph Sessions: Get your favorite celebrity’s autograph. Many stars sell photos and some charge for their signatures. Most will sign anything you take along with you (how about the poster of the movie, their latest book, etc?). Usually there is a limit on the number of autographs per person so expect to only be able to get 1 or 2 items signed per celebrity. And do take some extra money along just in case...not all conventions publish photograph rates or even know themselves if the actors are charging!
- Costume Contest: Many conventions hold a costume contest (also called the Masquerade Contest). Dress in your favorite costume and win a trophy! Most judges give you more points if you do some sort of skit or routine to present your costume (just walking up and turning around like a fashion model doesn’t usually win the trophy). Be creative and have fun!
- Panel Discussions: Or panels are usually a discussion centered on a specific topic - like Star Trek, or Babylon 5. Usually doesn’t include any of the celebrities...may be run by fan clubs or other organizations.
- Art Show/Auction: Amateur and professional artists display and sell their works at shows. This is a chance to get an original or print for usually very good prices!
- Dealer’s Room: A shopper’s paradise! Lots of things for sale from a variety of dealers. Some rooms are more varied than others, but you can usually find toys, games, collectibles, t-shirts, comics, books, photos, video tapes and more.
- Dance or Party/Performance: Many conventions include a dance or party (some in combination with the Costume Contest) to give you a chance to socialize with other fans and dance the night away! A special performance by one or more guests may also happen.
- Workshops & Demos: Many conventions include workshops (such as writing or art workshops with the guests) and may include things such as artist demonstrations, game demonstrations, and more.
- Game Room: Play a game - role-play (such as Dungeon & Dragons), collectible card games (such as Magic, Pokeman). computer games, etc.
- Luncheon or Banquet: Some conventions have special luncheons, banguets or other extra-ticketed events with the celebrity guests.
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