The OGs (Original Geekstas)

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Written By Abigail Heron
From left to right, ThunderCon attendees dressed as Fester from The Addams Family and Mumm-Ra from the original Thunder Cats series

ThunderCon Fan Event Returns

To geek or not to geek, that is the question. And at Thunder Bay’s favourite convention, the answer is always yes—and to the fullest! Whether exploring the depths of a galaxy far, far away or roaming the dragon-ruled lands of some fantastical reality, ThunderCon is an oasis for fans of all kinds and imaginations. Now, coming hot off the heels of their tenth anniversary, the two-day extravaganza for all things sci-fi, fantasy, and more is back and bigger than ever.

“We have some great guests coming in this year,” says Amanda Capar, board chair of the event’s adjoining not-for-profit. Attendants should keep their eyes peeled for appearances from icons including (but not limited to) Garry Chalk, who is best known for voicing Optimus Prime and Optimus Primal in Transformers and Dr. Robotnik in Sonic Underground, Dan Payne of Descendants and Supernatural, and Clare McConnell of Murdoch Mysteries. But featured guests aren’t just for show; they’re also slated to deliver panels on the industry and their craft, including a Q & A section.

ThunderCon attendees in cosplay pose for a photo at a past convention

For the con-goer looking for participatory events, interactive workshops on topics such as costume design will be offered, along with an escape room experience courtesy of Countdown Escape Rooms. Those who choose to attend dressed up can enter themselves into a cosplay competition for a chance to win fun prizes and bragging rights, while others with a knack for roleplay might be drawn to the event-long DnD campaign (sign up is first come, first served). Lala’s Craft Bowl will host a crafting table next to dozens of vendors, inside the Superior Inn Hotel & Conference Centre.

A ThunderCon attendee dressed as Chucky posed behind a cardboard cut-out picture frame at a previous convention

“It doesn't matter what age you are. If you like a fandom, come and check us out. People as old as 85 show up in cosplay; families bring their children who are three or four months old. In my opinion, the more the merrier,” says Capar, about the family-friendly event attended by a record-breaking number of people last year.

“ThunderCon doesn’t have a culture of gatekeeping. I think it's just about being with your people. Geek culture is really big on that feeling of comradery. ” 

ThunderCon takes place Sept 19 and 20. Secure your tickets and learn more at thundercon.ca.

Abigail Heron

Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Abigail finds her home in the city’s art and music scene. She has served the community in her work as the principal planner, coordinator, and promoter of all-ages metal shows, as a merchandiser for local bands, and as a volunteer at events and in films. She is currently pursuing a degree in mathematics at University of Toronto.

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