Dubbed PG-13 1978 Jim Hawkins embarks on a journey for the legendary treasure of Captain Flint. On the way, Jim's best friend, John Silver, reveals himself to be a ruthless pirate and takes over their ship. They are also animals.
Drive the robots that compete in FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics programs. Meet with middle and high school students who developed these robots. Learn about what is involved in K-12 FIRST programs in Minnesota. Participants: High Tech Kids
A 45-minute, low-impact workout in the pool led by a certified water fitness instructor. Learn how to use water resistance to tone and strengthen and do cardio in a supportive way. You do NOT need to know how to swim. All levels of ability are welcome. Ages 12+ Participants: Christina Neitz
Friday July 3, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT Hyatt 6, Pool
In this world of increasing threats from mass surveillance and automation, how can we continue to be nerds and skeptical of the technology around us? What can the history of anti-technological movements tell us? Participants: Elizabeth Merritt (mod), John Thomas Bliss, David Carlson, Satish Jayaraj, Sarah Keuper
Get ready for a fan panel! Um, actually, let's Make Some Noise about all our Dirty Laundry, discuss Very Important People, say hi to Intrepid Heroes, and more! We've been here the whole time. Participants: Mark (mod), Lunate8, Danielle McKay, Jo Thrace, TK
Get your questions answered about participating in the Masquerade by the Masquerade director and staff. Participants: Patrick Cool, Donald Kaiser, Kori Kontz, Briar Livingston
Let's talk everything pro wrestling, and especially its intersection with other forms of nerd-dom! Who are some of your favorite geeky wrestlers? What storylines are so fantastical that they break the bounds of conventional kayfabe? Participants: Victor Adeola (mod), Ben Ellis, Mark Goldberg, Shanna Jansen, Andrew Snell
Books, movies, podcasts, streaming--we'll try to talk about it all! What are some of the horrors you've enjoyed since 2025's CONvergence? Meet up for a fun, lively look at the horror scene. Participants: Scarlet Overkill (mod), T. Aaron Cisco, Charlene Holm, Chris William Malone, Stephanie Olson
The Galileo mission was a victim of the space shuttle, delays, funding, and redesigns. Once in space, it repeatedly broke, yet the team persevered to complete an unprecedented survey of the Jovian system. Learn about the mission, its people, and the goat! Participants: Jay Gallentine
We will be playing the Isle of Cats board game--a tile-drafting game of rescuing cats, filling your boat, and keeping kitty families together! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Carl Patten, Tammy Patten
Subtitled PG-13 1983 A foundling is rejected by her stepmother and leaves Australia to follow the handsome grandson of the British governor back to London. She must navigate the lies and intrigues of London aristocracy.
A light, economic board game where players act as animal entrepreneurs in the city of Astoria, competing to build the most valuable railroads, towns, and buildings. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Eric R. Peterson
LEDER Games' ROOT with all factions. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Carson Young
Frictive Architecture is a homebrew TTRPG where places have grown weird, strange, liminal, and filled with the Horrors. Explore this abandoned summer camp! Unlock its sinister secrets! Beware! *Bring dice if you have them.* NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Katherine Maher
This cool pack of pigeons is seeking to pilfer some popcorn from Wrigley field. You know that the owner, Tomtit Cricketts, has the keys to the vault on his bird-son, and opening day is the perfect time to pull off this heist! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Courtana
Donate at the Red Cross Bloodmobile, parked just outside Mainstage. Reserve a time at redcrossblood.org. Read the souvenir guide for further details and donor rewards.
Beginners Only. Subhead Pete is excited to introduce new players to this resource management classic. Collect & trade resources to expand your land. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Pete Lane
MegaCity Sandbox stands tall and shiny, thinking nothing could stop the bustling metropolis built by the MegaCorps. But kids 12 and under can come and show them how wrong they are! Hilarious media coverage for the audience by Molly and Nick Glover. Participants: Molly Glover, Nick Glover
Learn to Play Lorcana! Go through the basics and learn the various rules and card types available for the game. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Brandon Abel, Jaylynn Speidel
Ham radio has been around a long time and might sometimes seem old fashioned, but it's also full of innovation with people creating new platforms and working with satellites. We'll look at the old, the new, and see if it fits in with geek culture. Participants: Melanie Reap (mod), Edward Eastman, Aaron Lee Propes, Michael Scott Shappe
What major characters annoyed you? Did you keep watching or reading, and if so, how did you struggle through? Participants: KitKat (mod), Nick Fox, Sherry Pofahl Johnson, Dave Margosian, Elizabeth Merritt
You may not know it, but you may already have the basis for a great cosplay in your closet. Learn how to make use of everyday clothes. What tricks can you employ for putting together a costume from what you have already? Participants: Chris Wester (mod), John Thomas Bliss, Katie Heilman, Jera Of All Trades, Melanya
For first timers or veterans who are pretty sure they don't know everything, this panel will try to teach you everything you need to know. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Nikki Armstrong, Brian Etchieson
From Roddenberry and LeGuin to China Mieville and Greg Egan, sci-fi and fantasy writers have envisioned worlds and futures where socialism is a reality, or at least a present potential. Let's talk about those worlds and what they mean for our own. Participants: Boris Leonidovich Smelov (mod), Reed Alexander, Martin Peter Law, The Olive Knight, Samuel T. Weston
Just because you're Minnesotan doesn't mean you need to eat like one! Come learn where to find and how to use herbs and spices to broaden your culinary horizons. Participants: Saz (Mdog) Kos (mod), Sarah Barsness, Scott Grandt, K.N. Hamann, Erin Wilaby
What chapter books are popular among young readers? Let's hear from the real experts--the kids themselves. Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Tara Borton, Malcolm Dekker, Rose Grumdahl
Kiki Joy is a live vocalist and host blending nostalgic hits, nerdy charm, and campy charisma. With powerhouse vocals and playful energy, every performance feels like a concert and a hangout you won't forget. Instagram: lovekikijoy Participants: Kiki Joy Latham
Welcome to a live recording of the "Not Your Mother's Mahabharata Podcast". Satish Jayaraj will tell another chapter of the Indian epic "The Mahabharata" to his wife Azure and our special guest. "The Mahabharata" is a living, grand, and truly powerful epic! Participants: Azure, Satish Jayaraj, Aaron King
At the Grand Game Hall, fun turns foul as tokens vanish and prizes go missing. A trickster is cheating! Explore, solve puzzles, and outsmart them to restore fair play and fun for all. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Kelsey Ebbert
Once contained by the Federal Directorate of Control, Objects of Power disguised as Monopoly pieces have escaped. You will play as these objects and as those who wield them. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Jordan of Wyldwolf Games
A worker placement game where players run rival community theatres. Audition actors, mount shows, and hold fundraisers in pursuit of box office success and critical acclaim. This is a design in progress; feedback welcome. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Nate Metcalf
It's time to sharpen your weapons and battle dastardly foes! This is a 1-4 player cooperative dungeon crawler board game set in the universe of the successful Red Dragon Inn (2007) game series by Slugfest Games. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Charles Roberts
Subtitled PG-13 2015 A girl disguised as a boy is stuck joining a toy gun club and playing "survival games" to pay off a debt. Unfortunately, she is terrible at the game and needs to maintain her disguise because the club does not allow girls to join.
Standard & Modern tourney (can change to just Modern, depending on interest); eight players each. Bring your own legal deck and sideboard. Top two performers from each event will be invited to a (free!) special draft on Sunday at 11:00am. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: The Sleever Hive
The Quiet Year is a map-drawing TTRPG in which you do not play as individual characters, but rather as greater societal forces. The map will evolve based on your decisions. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Diane Perry
Learn and play your first game of Spirit Island, a cooperative, asymmetric board game about removing colonizers from your island home. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: AJ Zozulin
Saddle up for a Wild West sandbox adventure! Choose your path as lawman, outlaw, gambler, or prospector. Rob banks, drive cattle, duel rivals, win at poker, uphold the law, or strike gold to become a true Western legend. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Carl
A violent parody of the classic children's game Chutes and Ladders. It combines board movement with "first-person shooter" mechanics, where players control gingerbread men attempting to blow limbs off opponents to win. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Eric R. Peterson
A panel of comedians compete to complete the strange tasks set forth by a megalomaniacal game show host and their assistant. Based on the British game show. Participants: Maren Aalgaard, Jerry Belich, Molly Glover, Lee Harris, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Gregory Parks, Rian Vellichor, Tim Wick
Are you not feeling particularly competitive and just want to hit friends, loved ones, or other con-goers with foam padded weapons? Feel free to do so in this practice event. No need to feel intimidated; relax, and have fun fighting. Participants: Assassins' Guild Martial Arts Association
Gundam! Pacific Rim! Armored Core! Everybody loves giant mechs doing giant combat! Giga-Robo is a high energy board game that puts you in the role of a mech pilot fighting a Battle Royale in a destructible cityscape! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Ian Cross
Unlikely heroes are brought together for a shared voyage. Expect 60% combat, 30% roleplay, and a dash of new friendships. Bring a level 5 character, a reason for your journey, and get ready for adventure! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Kort of Wyldwolf Games
Hosted by The Royal Manticoran Navy and HMS Hellhound. We've got the bridge, so come test your crew! Sign up daily at the Artemis Bridge in the Boundary Waters Promenade. Participants: The Royal Manticoran Navy
Join Invited Participant and award-winning artist Leslie Barlow for a figure drawing activity featuring a cosplay model. All skill levels welcome, supplies provided. Participants: Leslie Barlow
Return of the Munchkin Tournament! After a time away it returns--three rounds over the weekend with a finale consisting of the top six players from the three preliminary rounds. Bring all promo materials! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Amber Mullin
Is Goku really the strongest? Is powerscaling that bad? Panelists bring their controversial takes, present them for debate, and invite the audience to weigh in. Participants: Princess Sam Irish Lass (mod), Amanda Bliss, John Thomas Bliss, Nur-D
Dive into the mysterious world of the submariner as we answer your questions about life and technology under the sea. We'll discuss engineering, sensors, weapons, environmental, living accommodations, and the group of people that keep it running silently! Participants: Kyle B Dekker (mod), Christopher Baye, Doug Kirks, Andrew McKay, Dan Stiglich
When crafting a story, creating actual diversity requires a great effort to avoid unintentionally tokenizing your characters. We will examine common mistakes and discuss ways to create diverse characters without tokenizing them. Participants: Kerry T Peterson (mod), Sonni de Soto, Eddie, Justin Edward Grays, Morgan Strickland
Cozy games come in many shapes and forms. What are your current favorites? Participants: Viga (mod), Allyson Cygan, Filima, John Kovalic, Dawn Krosnowski
We've come a long way from card catalogs and encyclopedias! How do you research a topic and evaluate sources? What are the hazards when googling for your information? Participants: Laura Okagaki (mod), Sarah Barsness, Jason Brown, J.R. Dawson, John Heimbuch
A discussion about online and local options for sourcing fabric and notions for your ever growing pile of projects. Participants: Kendrick Edmund Hogue (mod), skazka 9000, Cassara Carriere, Eiryn Katherine, Kori Kontz
What's your favorite clan? What role would you want to have in that clan? Come chat about your favorite parts of Warriors! Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Cassius Bastian-Stendahl, Kenzie Fleschner, Rose Grumdahl, Rey Wall
An all-bard adventuring party bringing bardcore and joyous takes on classics, along with some original works. Featuring vocals, drum, harp, violin, and guitar. Participants: Laura Arvidson, Ben Flood, Meredith McLinn, Ben White
Mousetraps, blindfolds, marshmallows, and sound effects!? We gathered up the weirdest improv structures we could think of, and now it's time to make some Questionable Choices! Participants: James Fairbairn, Stephanie Hammon, Ad Surmak, Eric Thompson, Duck Washington
New science fiction from Cole Sarar and Lyda Morehouse, underscored with futurist soundscapes by Caly McMorrow. Hear futures you never imagined, be transported to places you've never been, see yourself and your world in new ways, and be transformed. Participants: Caly McMorrow, Lyda Morehouse, Cole Sarar
You're a space marine sent to the edges of the galaxy to deliver mankind's revenge on all aliens. Features dark humor, 30-second character creation, and fast-paced tactical combat. Drop-in/Drop-out; priority to sign-ups. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: FLipsiDE
Yes, cute widdle Fluffy has been dognapped, and you must brave the flames of Heck to save her! A 5e D&D game with pre-generated characters. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Lee Stark
Dubbed PG-13 2024 An illustrator, a former idol, a composer, and a VTuber team up to form an anonymous band. To become a global phenomenon, they will have to overcome challenges from their past lives.
Join the creator for a beta test of a new GM-less card-based game. Tell a sweeping space opera aboard a generation ship, where 20+ generations must survive, adapt, and chase a home they'll never see. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Ben Stoddart
Answer the call aboard the U.S.S. Challenger and investigate a mysterious alien structure. Use your skills to uncover its secrets and complete the mission in this fast-paced Star Trek Adventures introduction. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Neal Sorensen
Citadels is a city-building, drafting, and bluffing card game where players compete to construct the most prestigious medieval city. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Eric R. Peterson
Learn the basics of Daggerheart, Critical Role's narrative-focused alternative to D&D. Create a character to keep and walk through examples of basic gameplay. Intro only; no adventure. Drop-in/Drop-out; priority to sign-ups. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Timetwist
Let's pack snacks and make tracks to each others' islands! Do you have duplicate DIYs, fossils, art, fish, or bugs that you'd like to share with other players? Get your island ready, invite fellow players, and let's share during this panel. Participants: Dawn Krosnowski
Laminate your very own bookmarks! Decorate with a variety of papers, stickers, and designs before sealing them in with a laminator. All ages welcome! Participants: Kate MacEachern
Come bet on sports mascots as they stumble, fall over, run into each other, and crawl down the field. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Michael Blomberg
Given current politics, talking about climate change can be stressful, but that may make it that much more important to bring up. What are some strategies to get folks who are less inclined to be climate-conscious on board with green(er) initiatives or policies? Participants: Arthur J Kneeland (mod), Saz (Mdog) Kos, Mordecai Mika, Erin Wilaby
Let's talk about how small, independent game studios work and how their games differ from those produced by the big companies. Participants: Tata (mod), Andrea, Darren Andrle, Corbin
With lack of safety shoes for away missions, absence of seat belts for space battles, and transporter malfunctions, being in Starfleet is slightly safer than toaster bathing. Discuss the health and safety violations in Star Trek that make you aghast. Participants: Skylar Merritt Schwartz (mod), Assad Khaishgi, Stephen Nein, Laura Okagaki, Andrew Snell
The Evil Queen. The Headless Horseman. The death of Mufasa. How did these characters and scenes like these affect your childhood? Participants: Jera Of All Trades (mod), Kendrick Edmund Hogue, KitKat, Janelle Kloth, Eric Alexander Norton
Birds of a Feather is a two-piece family band, primarily performing Irish/Scottish/English folk and traditional songs and tunes, but with sprinkles of Americana, Canadian Folk, and whatever else the kid likes enough to want to learn. Participants: Nightingale, Wren
Double-Blind Improv is a short-form improv show where the games and performers are drawn at random, so you never know what might happen because neither do we! Participants: Eric Thompson (mod), James Fairbairn, Stephanie Hammon, Ad Surmak, Duck Washington
Teams of "literary experts" compete to describe the plot of a book, judging only from its cover art! Participants: Jerry Belich, Birdchick, Molly Glover, Nick Glover, Lee Harris, Melissa Sue Kaercher, John Kovalic, Tim Wick
Written 150 years apart and unknown to each other, "The Black Vampyre" and "Blacula" share striking, unsettling parallels. How did the first two Black vampires echo each other? Were their similarities inevitable? Participants: Brian Forrest
We will be playing the classic monster-themed king-of-the-hill board game King of Tokyo. Roll dice, defeat monsters, and destroy the city! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Carl Patten, Tammy Patten
Come join the Commander Social. What can be more fun than playing Magic the Gathering and making new friends? NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Ross Prosser
In Wroth, each player represents a unique culture with a distinctive approach to battle and a variety of fighters with remarkable capabilities. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Chip Theory Games
A worker placement game where players run rival community theatres. Audition actors, mount shows, and hold fundraisers in pursuit of box office success and critical acclaim. This is a design in progress; feedback welcome. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Nate Metcalf
Your scrappy deep space crew has seen a lot. Now the tyrannical Hegemony is in ruins, but instead of finding freedom, the Urbots have risen. Will you fight, make peace, or choose a different destiny? A shared fiction RPG. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: David Corgan
Elder Scrolls: Betrayal of the Second Era is a strategy game of combat and character-building. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Amanda of Chip Theory Games
The party needs to get info for the Wizard Sorten at the library. The Shagaspondium has gone into the Shadow Fell and info on what they may find there is desperately wanted. Join in and see what you discover in Elysium. Participants: Burl Zorn
Subtitled PG-13 1981 An alien baby is adopted and grows up with a love for humanity, but if he dies his robot will explode. His adoptive father builds five more robots to combine into a giant robot to defend the Earth when Emperor Zule invades.
Beginners Only. Everdell combines worker placement, card drafting, and resource management in one box. Our very own Subhead Pete will be teaching new players this beautiful strategy game. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Pete Lane
This Game Is KILLER is a hilariously deadly game about being hunted by an alien form aboard a cramped cargo vessel in deep space. The object is simple: Survive at any cost and remove the alien threat before it kills you all. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Eric R. Peterson
Bienvenu! Do you think you know the most about our beloved grump and not-so-grump? Then come on down to the 3rd Annual Game Grumps Jeopardy! This fun, lighthearted game will feature trivia for lovelies new and old! Participation is not required. Participants: Link Christianson, Tabitha Moore
What parents and guardians expect kids to find scary is often not what their kids think is scary. Why are adults so often wrong about this? Participants: Eric Alexander Norton (mod), Kyle B Dekker, Malcolm Dekker, Rose Grumdahl, Sammi
Come hear current and former Guests of Honor and other professionals talk about different aspects of voice acting work, from the physical side to the artistic merit. Participants: Colette Feehan (mod), Catero Colbert, Mike Dee, Christine Galey, Arif Kinchen
Have you introduced children in your life to your favorite fandom yet? If not, do you plan to? We will explore the roles of parents, guardians, and communities in promoting the healthy development of hobbies and interests for children and youth. Participants: Nick the Board Game Librarian (mod), Annelise Hodge, Shanna Jansen, Jennifer L Klumpp, Kellee Lee Wolf
Let's discuss the best and most relevant Star Wars content ever created: Andor Seasons 1 and 2 and Rogue 1! Participants: Damian Boldizs (mod), skazka 9000, Nybieee, Catherine Schaff-Stump, Eric Zawadzki
Blues, ballads, originals, and instrumentals using 6-string and 12-string guitars, 6-string and 8-string baritones, and a new pedal board. Playing old songs, new songs, and the Chicken One. Participants: Jay William Koelsch
Five "experts" must each give a PowerPoint presentation with slides they have never seen before, and the slides make no sense! Participants: Tim Wick (mod), Birdchick, Windy Bowlsby, Charles Hubbell, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Ad Surmak
Sherlock Says is a locally-produced podcast covering all things Sherlock Holmes: from Victorian history to modern adaptation. For our CONvergence debut, we're joined by special guests to discuss the influence of Holmes in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Participants: Rachael Dosen, Angela Fox, Ansel Johnson, Kamela Lise
The local nonprofit GPS exists to support our local fan community. Find out how they can connect you to your fandoms and grow partnerships. Learn about their events and activities.
In Wroth, each player represents a unique culture with a distinctive approach to battle and a variety of fighters with remarkable capabilities. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Chip Theory Games
Organized by DEI and hosted in Space Lounge, come together for a social event for us, by us. Bring your friends, your business cards, and anything else you might need to connect and collect with your people.
It's time to sharpen your weapons and battle dastardly foes! This is a 1-4 player cooperative dungeon crawler board game set in the universe of the successful Red Dragon Inn (2007) game series by Slugfest Games. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Charles Roberts
As seen on Quinn's Quest, a game of Arthurian Knights in an odd land, seeking myths and glory. A lightweight fantasy RPG with OSR-inspired hex crawling. Improv-heavy, expect a one-of-a-kind adventure! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Tim Patton
As the Elders of Lottimer House, a mostly-honest shipping corp based on Chandrila, months after the destruction of the Death Star, you must intercept a long-trusted pilot who has gone missing with embarrassing intel. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Chris J Mortika
A quiet night at the Prancing Pony is broken by a hunter's warning of a dark threat in the North Downs. You are no mere guests, but a Company. Will you take the road and face the dangers beyond the hills? NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Hunter Goetzman
Party card game centered on creating absurd characters and arguing who would win in a fight or other specific challenge. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Eric R. Peterson
Dubbed PG-13 2008 After dying in an accident on her way to school, a girl wakes up in a new school...in hell. She must deal with demonic classmates and teachers, as well as an Elvis-impersonating headmaster named Helvis, as she tries to return to her previous life.
Come play bingo for actual prizes! This is a fundraiser for the CVG BIPOC Grant fund, so we'll be taking donations at the event with all money collected going directly to that fund. Look for flyers around the hotel for the list of awesome prizes. Participants: Garrick A Dietze, Eric Knight, Barb Lind
Starring Roll is a dice-rolling, probability-wagering game where you run rival community theatres. One player rolls dice, but all players collect resources and then use them to mount productions. Still in design stages. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Nate Metcalf
3D printing has grown from a niche hobby for dedicated tinkerers to a true maker's tool. From cosplay, to car parts, 3D printing is becoming common in many spaces. Covering the basics and new developments in the state of the art and science of 3D printing. Participants: Cary Christopherson, Dead Legato
Jim's got a new book out, Twelve Months. Let's discuss! What worked and what didn't? What are we looking forward to in Mirror Mirror? Has Harry suffered enough? Will he ever be happy? Participants: Nybieee (mod), Jesse DeLost Abrahamson, Scott Grandt, Jen Rogachevsky, Kellee Lee Wolf
From medieval court jesters to late night talk show hosts, it has been the comedian's role and privilege to speak truth to power. Why has the medium of comedy been granted this right? Participants: Kate Dane (mod), skazka 9000, Bobo, Brian, Janelle Kloth
The movies showed us a variety of cultures; Dwarf, Elf, Human, Hobbit. Each uniquely portrayed in various types of garb. But what isn't so obvious is the costume designers' reflection of Tolkien's own research. Participants: Rae Lundquist
Perfectionism ruins stories and arcane grammar rules inhibit all writers. But should we just give in to bad writing, accept tropes, and encourage messy creativity? Let's debate the merits of breaking convention. Participants: Anthony W. Eichenlaub (mod), Mallory Glass, John Heimbuch, Becca Justiniano, Stephanie Olson
What's your preference? Do some games lend themselves to one vs. the other? What about couch co-op? Participants: Amber Raden (mod), Allyson Cygan, Dzhemi, Dirk Ykema
Everything you wanted to know about running this con, but were too afraid to ask! Come meet the CONvergence Board and ask all the questions you maybe don't want the answers to. (We won't bite...hard.) Participants: David Bianchi, Hawthorne Fasching, CJ Mantel, Rachel Poleke, William Verburg-Cunningham, Rhea Wessendorf, Tim Wick
Join us for a new cirque-style show filled with fandoms and cosplays inspired by your favorite robots, cyborgs, and androids! Featuring aerialists, dancers, jugglers, and more. It's an AI-free combination of circuits and circus! Participants: Shadowcat Sophie
Join puppet Herman the Dinosaur for a lively variety hour of comedy, fan fiction, and playful chaos. Cheeky humor, nerdy mashups, improv, and delightfully naughty storytelling for adults. Participants: Angela Fox, Charles Hubbell, Jena Young
Come enjoy an hour of music on harp and guitar that will range from depressing traditional ballads to robots in space and everything in between. From raucous drinking songs to sappy love songs, Tanya will keep you laughing and crying the whole time. Participants: Tanya Brody
Elena Koval has been kidnapped. You and your fellow mercenaries, all former spies and operators, have been hired to get her back. You'll need all your skills, because there are...complications: VAMPIRES! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Fred Wagener
The dragon to the south has been slain. Your clan has decided to abandon their current lands and spirits for the rich promise that lies beyond its lair. A low-level, introductory Daggerheart adventure. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: FLipsiDE, Timetwist
Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction game where a group of players must work together to find out who among them is the demon before it's too late. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Aurora Corgan
Dubbed R 2003 A teenager and a talking motorcycle travel from place to place with no particular goal. Along the way, they meet all kinds of people and experience different ways of living.
Assimilate your sock and have it join the collective! Initiate construction of your very own cyborg, robot, or android and take over the world (*insert evil laugh) of sock puppets! All ages welcome! Participants: Lisa Wallin
Want to learn more about what it's like to be a performer in the Twin Cities (and beyond)? Come hear stories from and ask questions of the cast of this year's CONvergence Cirque Show. Participants: Shadowcat Sophie
The MCU is coming up on 20 years, but some aspects of the franchise have not grown over time, namely good representation of Jewish characters despite the source material and comics history. Why is that and why does it matter? Where can they go from here? Participants: Jen Rogachevsky (mod), Kelly Brimbor, J.R. Dawson, Mark Goldberg, Kendrick Edmund Hogue
"It's time to play the music!" The Muppet Show is still beloved, fifty years on. Why are so many still fans? Could it ever return? Participants: Skylar Merritt Schwartz (mod), Dawn Krosnowski, Miss Shannan, Kaija Schmauss, Bryon David Stump
Bad September is the Twin Cities' premiere retro-futurist rock band. Our three albums are filled with songs about technological revolution and cultural rebellion, but with a steampunk edge. Participants: Charles Borchert, Elizabeth Borchert, Michael Borchert, John Heimbuch, Keith Prusak, Rob Prusak
A hodgepodge of folk tales and fairy tales in a new original production and design. Hear about the process and story and see a brief sneak peek. Participants: Joel Fischer, Suzan Gray, Todd Pioske, Kenny Simon, Dirk Ykema
A complete history of robots in sci-fi (not actually complete), from their beginnings in theater, through their Mechagodzillas and Mechanikongs, plus the insane things that happened with them in the 80s, and so much more! Plus jokes! And PowerPoint! Participants: Matthew Kessen
Teen Room takes over Splounge for a Teens-Only (ages 13-20) cooperative event. Run the sensory bar, DJ, or just have the glowy space for yourselves! Space Lounge never serves alcohol, but during this event, no alcohol will be allowed in the room.
A worker placement game where players run rival community theatres. Audition actors, mount shows, and hold fundraisers in pursuit of box office success and critical acclaim. This is a design in progress; feedback welcome. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Nate Metcalf
Join Wyldwolf's professional game masters for a live D&D one-shot adventure! As part of the audience, you'll influence choices, spark chaos, and shape the story. Will you steer our heroes to glory? Take a seat and get ready to roll. Let the mayhem begin! Participants: Gary Dombrowski, Kelsey Ebbert, Hunter Goetzman, Jake Rafter, Ben Stoddart
The Quiet Year is a map-drawing TTRPG in which you do not play as individual characters, but rather as greater societal forces. The map will evolve based on your decisions. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Diane Perry
Dance with the dinos as they groove through the Hyatt Regency! Starting on 4F (Gaming Area), they'll parade down 2F & 1F before ending on 4F (gaming area) for photos & hugs. No stops until the finale--so get ready for a roaring good time!
A dice-only game! Five players randomly choose their characters, their map, and their opponents. Two hours of pure D&D mayhem! **mature content** NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Laurie Seifert Williams
Dubbed R 2014 Jeanne d'Arc and Leonardo da Vinci are guided by visions to join Oda Nobunaga. They are pursued by King Arthur's general, Gaius Julius Caesar, who wants to seize Nobunaga's planet along with the Holy Grail.
Put on your dancing shoes and learn to cut a rug at this swing dance crash course! East Coast Swing is a beginner friendly introduction into the world of swing dance; no partner or prior experience required! Participants: Fay & Renegade
This panel aims to spread awareness and understanding about OCD. Society often has an inaccurate view of OCD and how it affects those suffering from it. Hear from those diagnosed and living with OCD, talk about representation in the media, and more. Participants: Hedy Rand-McKay, Jen Rogachevsky
Desire for realism is high in the cosplay community. When does it go too far? Is it okay to change skin tone to emulate characters of other races? What's the difference in emulating race and species? This will be uncomfortable; there's a nix on tangential subjects. Participants: Justin Edward Grays (mod), Sonni de Soto, Charlene Holm, Gregory Parks, Morgan Strickland
Mathematician and novelty singer-songwriter Tom Lehrer sadly passed away shortly after CVG2025. Let us pay tribute to the late King of Satire! Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Jeff Grapevine, Andrea Herman, Keeter Man, Johanna Stark
AK Sherlock is high-voltage Industrial Rock for anyone who's been silenced, erased, or told their survival was a mistake. We don't apologize for taking up space; we claim it with volume. Debut EP, EXHIBIT A, coming June 2026. @AK_Sherlock on Instagram Participants: AK Sherlock
Join Miss Shannan Paul and her special guests as they turn life's chaos into comedy gold with hilarious, heartfelt, and geek-approved tales that celebrate fandom, resilience, and the joy of embracing the unexpected. Participants: Miss Shannan
Four authors write complete flash fiction stories in five minutes based on topics suggested by the audience. Participants: Lee Harris (mod), Jerry Belich, Nick Glover, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Dawn Krosnowski, Jeremy Stomberg
What do pasta aliens, a sordid romance drama, and Arnold Schwarzenegger have in common? They are part of the funniest Japanese commercials ever made. Come see a curated hour of them! Participants: Viga
Join us for an 18+ paint night, where we'll have four cat-themed options (or swap the animal if you shockingly don't like cats)! Skill level isn't important, having fun and being creative is the goal--no art critics here! **mature content** Participants: Andrea Doughty, Caprice Stark
Welcome to the annual Vampire Hunters Guild dinner. Enjoy the fine food and companionship, and discuss how we will fight the creatures of the night for the following year. Beware! We may have been infiltrated! NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Laura Thurston
A social deduction game where players are secretly Good or Evil, guided by a Storyteller. Good must identify and execute the demon; Evil deceives and eliminates others to gain majority. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Kyle Smaagard
See back-to-back readings of two one-act plays by Sam L. Landman. Con is a tale of comic book conventions, and Near Mint portrays the death of a comic book store. Participants: Sam Landman
TALENT is an urban fantasy roleplaying system that emphasizes player freedom, collaborative storytelling, and rolling fistfuls of dice! This one-shot will be a beta test of a system in active development. **mature content** NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Dee Quinn
Tune your antennae to an intergalactic mystery in a most transmutational and revolutionary bar. Download new sensations, chill to sonic harmonizations, and bathe in our ultra-luminescent atmosphere. Open nightly.
Dubbed R 2004 Two college students take in the childlike Nyu, unaware that she is a telekinetic mutant with a murderous alter ego and a special assault team trying to recapture her.
A rustic fantasy tabletop RPG based on the acclaimed City of Mist. Spin a tale of journey and peril where choices transform gameplay. **mature content** NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Laurie Seifert Williams
Dead By Daylight is a 4v1 horror game that's infamous for being not-so-beginner-friendly. Join a couple of seasoned DBD players as we discuss the core mechanics of gameplay, tips for newbies, and beginner-friendly builds for playing Killer and Survivor! Participants: Ashley Coyle, Andrea Allyn-DeMaris
Many feel existential dread regarding the current state of the world and use art as a counter or means of escape to find some catharsis. How do they channel those feelings into their creations? Participants: John Heimbuch (mod), Leslie Barlow, J.R. Dawson, John Kovalic, Springyboii
If you've ever wanted to wield the power your characters do, you can! But this isn't flashy prestidigitation or thunderous AoEs--more like maxed-out Luck, Intuition, and Wisdom. Learn about bringing (real) magic out of your games and into your life. Participants: Emily Allen
A panel to discuss everything about The Magnus Archives and get together to share enthusiasm about the podcast! Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Zaydden Johnson, Mordecai Mika, TG
Nur-D and his friends bring you a TTRPG experience where they play through a famous movie and let dice determine the outcome! Participants: Nur-D (mod), Steph Hanson, DJ Hayes, Nathan Hirsh, BJ Johnson, Betty Kay Merkle, Ro Lorenzen, Gabrielle Pearson, Aaron Sexton
Vilification Tennis makes a triumphant return to MainStage! Why is it triumphant? Because they can't believe they have been invited back! **mature content** Participants: Tim Wick (mod)
With 50 years of musical experience, Wilson Parc's music ranges from classics and mash-ups to originals with influences from metal, folk, bluegrass, and jazz. Participants: Annette Larson, Jac Martins, Eric Neuville, Ren Riga
Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction game where a group of players must work together to find out who among them is the demon before it's too late. NOTE: Event has limited seating that requires signing up at the Gaming Front Desk in the Hyatt 4 Great Lakes Promenade--stating attendance here DOES NOT sign you up! Participants: Aurora Corgan
Dubbed R 1994 Interpol agent Chun-Li must team up with Major Guile of the US Air Force to defeat M. Bison, who plans to crush all who oppose him by brainwashing the world's strongest martial artists.
Friday July 3, 2026 11:00pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 1:00am CDT Hyatt 4, Lake Harriet
Join your favorite Villainess from Far Far Away during a night of inappropriate hijinks and debauchery as she celebrates her win over that hideous ogre Shrek. Party games, prizes, and NO OGRES ALLOWED. **mature content** Participants: Bailey Workman
Friday July 3, 2026 11:30pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 1, Lakeshore A
Sea stories or lies, you be the judge! Our panel of intrepid mariners tell tales of daring-do mixed with occasional drunken debauchery in far-off lands, tomfoolery on duty, and other kinds of good trouble. Adults only, strong Language. Participants: Kyle B Dekker (mod), Christopher Baye, Doug Kirks, Andrew McKay, Dan Stiglich
Gender and gender identity can be very complicated for people. What paths have different people taken? How have they dealt with the challenges that come with them? Participants: Johanna Stark (mod), Eiryn Katherine, Cyn Sanchez, Skylar Merritt Schwartz
Friday July 3, 2026 11:30pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2, Greenway HI
Letters! Numbers! And Conundrums! Can you make longer words and get the numbers faster than our panelists? Most likely! Participants: Filima, Nathan Gerber, Lee Harris, Philip D Henry, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Dawn Krosnowski
Friday July 3, 2026 11:30pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2, Greenway FG
I'm sorry, Dave.... It's getting hot in here. Nerdlesque returns with a late-night celebration of dangerously intelligent temptations. From space oddities to machine fantasies, it's burlesque with a glitch--glamorous, cheeky, and just a bit unhinged. **mature content** Participants: Curvee B, Opiumm Hayze, Kiki Joy, Mona Montague, Juniper Nightshade, Sinasaurus Vex
Friday July 3, 2026 11:30pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2, Regency Room
Fiction and friendship collide as the cohosts of the supernatural comedy podcast Quest Friends find themselves trapped in a romance-themed D&D game, with their very souls on the line. Can you help them escape the panel room? Participants: Kyle Decker, Hallie Koontz, Ariadne Peñalva Tena
