Hi! I’m CHL.
Short for Cthulhu Han Luke. It’s a long story.
Welcome to MystiCon.
If this is your very first convention, you’ve come to exactly the right place.
Maybe you’re excited. Maybe you’re nervous. Maybe you’re wondering if everyone else already knows what they’re doing.
Can I tell you a secret?
They didn’t either.
Every longtime fan had a first convention. As we go, I’ll explain the basics, answer the questions people are often too nervous to ask, and hopefully help you feel a little more at home before you ever walk through the doors.
You belong here.
What Is a Convention?
Think of MystiCon as a weekend-long celebration of imagination. People gather because they love stories, characters, art, games, movies, music, costumes, science, and wonderfully nerdy conversations.
Panels
Guests and fans talking about books, movies, science, writing, gaming, history, and more.
Vendors
Artists, authors, crafters, collectibles, jewelry, dice, books, and wonderfully nerdy treasures.
Gaming
Board games, RPGs, card games, and video games. New players are welcome.
Cosplay
Some attendees dress as favorite characters. Many do not. Either is completely normal.
Myth vs. Reality
Myth
Everyone already knows everyone.
Reality
Many people are meeting for the first time. New friendships happen all weekend long.
Myth
I have to wear a costume.
Reality
Most attendees wear regular clothes. Cosplay is completely optional.
Myth
I won’t fit in if I don’t know everything.
Reality
Curiosity is one of the best things you can bring.
Myth
Everyone is judging me.
Reality
Most people are simply excited to talk about the things they love.
What Can I Do?
There isn’t one right way to experience MystiCon. Some people build a schedule packed from morning until midnight. Others wander, discover new interests, and spend hours chatting in the lobby.
- Attend a panel.
- Meet an author.
- Browse the Dealers Room.
- Learn a new board game.
- Watch independent films.
- Enjoy a concert.
- Take photos with cosplayers, always ask first.
- Grab coffee and people-watch.
- Find your next favorite fandom.
A Typical Saturday
There isn’t a perfect schedule, but here’s what a relaxed convention day might look like.
Breakfast and coffee.
Attend your first panel.
Explore the Dealers Room.
Learn a game or attend another panel.
Dinner with friends, old or new.
Evening events, movies, concerts, gaming, or lobby time.
What Should I Bring?
Convention Words You’ll Hear
Panel
A discussion about a topic.
Cosplay
Costume plus play. Dressing as a favorite character.
Dealer
A business selling merchandise.
Guests
The creative professionals who run our panels and guide us through interesting topics.
Guest of Honor
A featured creator invited to attend the convention.
Con Crud
The joking name for the cold people sometimes get after a busy convention weekend. Wash your hands and get some sleep.
Friendly Tips
Still Nervous?
That is okay. Really.
Walking into any new community can feel intimidating. The good news is that conventions are full of people who remember what it felt like to attend their very first one.
If you have a question, ask. If you need directions, ask. If you are feeling overwhelmed, find one of our volunteers. We would much rather help you than have you spend the weekend wondering.