Looking for an event to let your inner fandom fly?<\/p>\n
This weekend in Fort Myers, Fandom Fest returns for another year of celebrating various pop culture, comics, and more.<\/p>\n
Taking place at the Fort Myers Regional Library on Saturday, Dec. 13, the event offers opportunities to snag a photo with your favorite character, peruse dozens of vendor tables, and show off your best cosplay costume.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cLee County Library System is thrilled to offer this special event each year,\u201d said Lee County Library System Event Coordinator Melissa Baker. \u201cIt\u2019s such a wonderful way to promote a love of reading through pop culture and comics and it showcases the way libraries are centers for connection, creativity, self-expression and learning. What makes Fandom Fest unique is its ability to unite fans of all ages through comics, pop culture, cosplay, gaming, STEM and hands-on activities \u2014 all while promoting literacy and showcasing the library as a dynamic, welcoming space.\u201d<\/p>\n
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with offerings including free books and comics, a costume contest for all ages, character meet-and-greets, fandom crafts for kids, a cosplay DIY makerspace, as well as merchandise and exhibitors.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Baker said there is a full schedule of activities, including giveaways of free books and comics, a Super Mario STEM Tech Zone, crafts, face painting, carnival games, a bounce house and live entertainment includes a Steel Drum Performance featuring Caloosa Middle School students at 11 a.m. and a Kpop Dance group, \u201cSpotlight\u201d at noon.<\/p>\n
\u201cFandom Fest is also featuring more meet-and-greet characters than ever, perfect for fans of KPop Demon Hunters, Dragons of Berk, the Addams Family, Pok\u00e9mon, Star Wars, Disney, DC and Marvel,\u201d she said. \u201cThere is even a designated North Pole area for photos with Santa Claus and other pre-K favorites like Bluey and Baby Shark.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur hope is that attendees leave inspired, connected and excited about the library as a place to discover and enjoy our common interests.\u201d<\/p>\n
Baker said it\u2019s always great to see the creativity in the cosplay costume contest each year, with those young and old showing their love for whichever character they portray.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is amazing to see the creativity and innovation from the contestants of the Cosplay Costume Contest,\u201d she said. \u201cWe are always so impressed with the creativity, craftsmanship and enthusiasm people put into their costumes. There will also be a Cosplay DIY makerspace where contestants can embellish or repair costumes as needed throughout the day.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Those wanting to enter to win the contest should arrive early. Costume contest registration is between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for all categories: pre-K, kids, teens, adults and groups.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s Fandom Fest exhibitor area features a diverse lineup of 20 artists, fandom groups, community organizations and small businesses representing comics, anime, gaming, sci-fi\/fantasy and pop culture. Combined, they represent more than 15 fandoms. Food vendors will include American, Mexican and Puerto Rican options, plus shaved ice and lemonade.<\/p>\n
Fandom Fest also is a great opportunity to do some last-minute holiday shopping for a loved one with a passion for nearly any intellectual property.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThe library will be selling its own Fandom Fest merchandise like T-shirts, tote bags and beanie hats, plus there will be some great shopping from comic book shops and vendors,\u201d Baker said. \u201cWith an array of handmade goods, artwork, fandom-themed merchandise and unique collectibles, Fandom Fest is an excellent opportunity for thoughtful, last-minute holiday shopping while supporting local creators.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fandom Fest was first introduced in 2018 when it evolved from a previously held event called Comic Fest. The festival is now a large-scale festival held annually on the second Saturday in December.<\/p>\n
Fandom Fest is free and open to all ages.<\/p>\n
More info, event schedule and map, can be found HERE<\/a>. <\/p>\n Fort Myers Regional Library is at 2450 First St.<\/a><\/p>\n