Minicon facts for kids

Minicon is a super fun event for fans of science fiction and fantasy! It's a special gathering called a convention. It usually happens in Minneapolis, Minnesota, around Easter weekend.

This convention started way back in 1968. It has happened almost every year since then. This makes it one of the oldest science fiction conventions in the middle of the United States. The event is put on by the Minnesota Science Fiction Society. This group is non-profit, meaning they don't do it for money. They just want more people to enjoy science fiction and fantasy books!

Many famous authors and artists have been special guests at Minicon over the years. These include amazing writers like Octavia E. Butler, Harlan Ellison, Larry Niven, and Terry Pratchett.

What to Expect at Minicon

Minicon is packed with exciting activities for everyone. Here are some of the main things you can do:

• Panel discussions: These are talks where experts discuss different topics. You can learn about your favorite books, movies, or games.
• Readings: Authors read from their books or new stories. It's a great way to hear new tales!
• Gaming: You can play all sorts of games. This includes board games, card games, and even video games.
• The Bozo Bus Tribune: This is a special newsletter just for the convention. It keeps you updated on everything happening.
• Art show: See amazing artwork inspired by science fiction and fantasy.
• Dealers room: This is a place where you can buy cool merchandise. You might find books, comics, costumes, and more.
• Kids' programming: There are special activities designed just for younger attendees.
• Science room: Explore cool science demonstrations and learn new things.
• Filk and folk music: Enjoy live music, often with songs about science fiction and fantasy.
• Consuite and bar: A place to relax, grab a snack, and chat with other fans.
• Parties: Many people host fun parties in the evenings.

Minicon's Journey Through Time

The very first Minicon was held on January 6, 1968. It took place at Coffman Union at the University of Minnesota. About 60 people attended this first event.

After that, all Minicons were held in hotels in the area. More and more people started coming each year. At one point, over 3,000 people attended! The convention even used as many as four different hotels.

However, in 1999, Minicon decided to become smaller. Some organizers felt it had grown too big. They thought it had moved away from its original goals. Recent Minicons have had between 400 and 700 attendees.

Around the time Minicon became smaller, other conventions started in the area. These include CONvergence and MarsCon.

It's important not to confuse Minicon with MinnCon. MinnCon was a different convention for dark fantasy and horror fans. It started in 1971 in St. Paul. MinnCon changed its name to Arcana in 1988. This was done to avoid confusion with Minicon. However, some fans still call it by its older name. The word "minicon" is also sometimes used for any small science fiction convention.

Recent Minicon Events

Here's a look at some of the most recent Minicon conventions:

Minicon 50

Minicon 50 happened from April 2 to 5, 2015. It was held at the DoubleTree Bloomington Hotel in Bloomington, Minnesota. The special guests included authors Jane Yolen, Larry Niven, and Brandon Sanderson. Publisher Tom Doherty, musician Adam Stemple, and artist Michael Whelan were also guests.

Minicon 51

Minicon 51 took place on Easter Weekend 2016. This was from March 25 to 27. The special guests were author Seanan McGuire and artist Sara Butcher Burrier.

Minicon 52

Minicon 52 was held on Easter Weekend 2017. It ran from April 14 to 16. Guests of honor included Jim C. Hines, Brother Guy Consolmagno, Mark Oshiro, and Jeff Lee Johnson.

Minicon 53

Minicon 53 happened on Easter Weekend 2018. This was from March 30 to April 1. The special guests were Lyda Morehouse and Rachel Swirsky. The convention also featured art by Jon Arfstrom.