PHILCON 2006

In addition to our three principal guests, don't miss the additional 200-plus Local Philadelphian and Regional Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Professionals who'll be present to discuss everything under the sun (and beyond it): Artists, Authors, Editors, Filmmakers, Illustrators, Writers, and many others.

The Philcon Committee regrets that our previously announced Principal Speaker, Cory Doctorow, has had to cancel his appearance due to an unforseen scheduling conflict. We are sorry that Mr. Doctorow will be unable to attend, and we further regret any inconvenience that this may cause to anyone who was planning to attend Philcon to see him.

News & Announcements

Nov. 13th: — You can now examine the schedule by room, time, guest, and track. Nov. 11th: — At-the-door membership prices and the Philcon 2006 Schedule Grid are now available. Nov. 8th: — A list of program participants is now available for your perusal. Plan who you'd like to meet, and what items you want to get signed. There's also a schedule for the Children's Program. Nov. 1st: No Babysitting. This year, Philcon opted to require pre-registration to reserve babysitting services. No such registrations were received, so this function will not be available this year. Oct. 3rd: Our hotel block is nearly full! Check the hotel page for information and workaround strategies. Anytime: If you'd care to discuss Philcon online, we now operate both a LiveJournal community and a MySpace page. Past Deadlines Nov. 3rd: Writers’ Workshop — Here is a chance for beginning writers to get their work critiqued by professionals. Four or five professional writers and editors will make up our panel of experts, who will evaluate stories submitted to the workshop. Anyone who is a paid member of Philcon may participate. There is no additional fee. Send ten copies of your story (word limit 6000; about 20 manuscript pages) to Darrell Schweitzer, 6644 Rutland St., Philadelphia PA 19149-2128. Manuscripts must be received two weeks before the convention. Oct. 31st: The deadline for pre-registration is was Tuesday, October 31st, 2006. Oct. 13th: The deadline for the 2006 Philcon Student Writing Contest is was Friday, October 13th. Oct. 1st: The deadline for the 2006 Philcon Fan Film Contest is was Sunday, October 1st.

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Philcon has been a source of inspiration and learning for the past 70 years. During the conference, Philcon members can enjoy over 200 hours of discussions, events, and workshops that will educate and inspire you, no matter what your science fiction experience may be.

Fan Groups and Organizations

At Philcon, you will have access to our region's most engaging science fiction and fantasy fans. You may encounter members of the Association of Science Fiction & Fantasy Artists (ASFA), DelVaLUG, the Delaware Valley LEGO Users Group, the International Costumers' Guild (ICG), and its local chapter, The Lunatic Phrynge; the Philadelphia Area Gaming Enthusiasts (PAGE); Philadelphia Fantastic, PhillyGeek, the Prydonians of Prynceton, the Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA), the Sci-Fi Syndicate; and many more, including Philcon's host group, the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society (PSFS).

Science Fiction Dealers

When you visit the Philcon Dealers' Room, you'll find anime, attire, books, computer games, filk, magazines, RPGs, videos, and more. Over fifty vendors from across the country gather at Philcon each year to sell their wide range of Science Fiction and Fantasy wares, from out-of-print books to foreign films to hard-to-find collectibles. While there, you can also visit the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society table for official souvenirs, special items, and information on how to join.

Costumes, Masquerade, and Cosplay

As you travel the corridors of Philcon, you're likely to see a dazzling array of science fiction and fantasy costumes created by devoted fans. The conference encourages these “hall costumes,” and you may also want to attend (or participate in!) the Masquerade event, sponsored by the local chapter of the International Costumers' Guild, the Lunatic Phrynge.

Meet the Pros Reception

Join us on Philcon's opening evening to share drinks, snacks and conversation with Science Fiction and Fantasy pros and fans.

Art Show Docent Tours

... led by exhibiting artists! Philcon features one of the largest science fiction and fantasy art exhibitions on the East Coast.

Con Suite

... a lounge where light snacks, drinks and seats are available. Stop by for a breather, to socialize, and to meet new people. (Donations of supplies are greatly appreciated).

PhilProm

... an exclusive gala and one of Philcon's premier social events. Have a photo taken to commemorate the event. Taste delicious hors d'oeuvres and cocktails while chatting with other science fiction fans. Afterwards, enter the Ballroom for an evening of fun and dancing.