Organizers are gearing up for this year's rendition of Central Alberta Fanfest in Ponoka - described as a high-quality anime, comic book, sci-fi, and fantasy expo.
The free event, which is being co-sponsored with Ponoka Family and Community Support Services, runs Aug. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ponoka Jubilee Library.
Central Alberta Fanfest’s objective is to provide a high-quality (and safe) expo with a small-town vibe, explained Cynthia Bottomley, event coordinator.
"Panels start at noon and include our popular Jedi Academy led by our local Jedi Master Jaarik Kattanno. This is where folks can master some Jedi fighting forms, a Name that Tune Disney edition, a vendors' market, and, of course, our cosplay competitions for beginner cosplayers, and experienced cosplayers," she explained.
Bottomley said cosplay (the dressing up and performance of characters from books, movies, and other media) can be described as an art form. It’s more than just dressing up - those taking part can really have fun getting into ‘character’ as well.
"We also have a craftsmanship category for each level for cosplayers who make 70 per cent of their costumes."
Bottomley said organizers are also very excited to host a Q and A with two editors from On Spec magazine.
"This is a Canadian magazine that publishes science fiction and fantasy short stories and poetry from Canadian writers," she said.
"It's a great opportunity for any budding sci-fi/fantasy writers and poets to learn more about the industry."
She noted that the event will also feature cosplayers from two groups; the 501st Legion of Calgary where members dress as characters from the Star Wars empire, and the Edmonton-based USS Cerberus - a Star Trek cosplay group.
"Both groups are part of larger cosplay groups that have members across the globe. As a Trekkie and lover of Star Wars, I am thrilled to have both groups participate this year. It's awesome that we are getting both.
"We're also thrilled to be hosting a Magic: The Gathering tournament space. This was a requested addition from last year's event and is perfect for any Magic: The Gathering players who want to meet fellow enthusiasts," she said.
Bottomley said that Central Alberta Fanfest strives to provide an engaging and accessible fandom convention experience for residents of Ponoka and the surrounding communities who may not be able to attend the bigger cons in Calgary or Edmonton.
"This could be due to budget, lack of transportation, and even anxiety about attending large events," she said.
"Our event is free and open to anyone who might want to swing by. It is also a perfect opportunity for people who have curiosity about sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and gaming fandoms to experience the friendly and creative communities these fandoms create!"
The first Fanfest was held in the summer of 2019 and continues to attract fans from across the region, she said.
“Initially, it all started from our anime/manga club at the Library in 2018. We have since re-named that group the Fandomedia Club because we don’t just do anime and manga - it’s kind of anything geek-related."
She said club members are a big help when it comes to Fanfest as well.
"They help run sessions at Fanfest, and they help with set-up and take-down, too."
For Bottomley, seeing the event, which is growing year by year, take shape each summer is a joy.
"As someone who has always loved Star Trek and Disney, it's just fabulous to be part of a community (like this). To have people come in that also have these loves of these fandoms - I just really enjoy being able to help provide it," she explained.
"I really like that our library can help to provide a venue, not just for Fanfest but also for our Fandomedia Club, where people of any age can share this," she said.
"Also, having it be a free event is a key component of having it be more accessible, too."
For more about Central Alberta Fanfest, call the Ponoka Jubilee Library at 403-783-3843, visit https://prl.ab.ca/events/ponoka/central-alberta-fanfest, or email fanfestponoka@prl.ab.ca.
