Chattacon 33 will be held Jan. 25-27 at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo.
Chattacon is an annual convention for fans of science fiction, fantasy and speculative fiction as well as offering a wide variety of programming events including workshops for filmmaking, writing, art, origami, e-publishing, podcasting and even belly dancing. Events are for all ages.
The three-day convention will host other events such as sword dueling demonstrations, Robot Battles, Laser Tag, gaming, puppet shows, independent films, the Masquerade Costume Contest and live music performances from local bands.
The expansive Dealers Room houses up to 60 vendors selling everything from books, comics, collectibles and gaming supplies to costumes, leatherworks, kilts, jewelry and swords.
Chattacon’s Art Show offers a varied assortment of flat and 3D original artwork, as well as art prints, for viewing and sale. There will be a knot work demonstration on the principles of tying complex knots in precious wire and a hands-on oil painting workshop.
Guests this year include authors Lynn Abbey (of Thieves World fame), Hugo Award winning author Michael Swanwick, artist Debbie Hughes, author and editor Eric Flint, author and toastmaster Peter David and as a special guest, the SciFi Channel’s Brian Harnois of Ghost Hunters International.
Full three-day registration for Chattacon is $50 at the door for adults and $25 for children 12-years-old or younger. Discounted rates are available after 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26, at the price of $30 for adults and $15 for children. Sunday rates (starting at 3 a.m.) are $15 for adults and $10 for children.