Aug 21 2009
Octocon: The National Irish Science Fiction Convention
Below is a press release I just recently got from one of the organizers of Octocon, The National Irish Science Fiction Convention. If you’re one of my European readers, definitely take a look!
Dublin Hosts Writers, Artists At Annual Event
‘Unsung Genres’ and ‘Curious Concepts’ are the focus for this year’s National Irish Science Fiction Convention
This October the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin, will play host to artists, writers and film-makers as Octocon 2009 kicks off its events. The annual festival brings together a wide variety of people with an interest in all forms of ’speculative fiction’ from Celtic mythology through to fantasy, horror and science fiction.
Established in 1990, Octocon has always drawn large crowds – from all over the world – to discuss books, film and comics and more, as well as to take part in workshops and meet the guests.
The convention’s co-chairperson Cat McGrath says, “Octocon has always provided a tremendous amount for an amazing price: where else can you get a whole weekend’s entertainment for only €30 – or €20 for students and under-18s?”
This year’s Guests of Honour are comic book writer and novelist Mike Carey and activist science fiction fan Dave Lally. Carey is best known as the writer of X-Men and his Felix Castor series, while Lally is the head of the European Science Fiction Society (ESFS).
In addition to the regular panels, discussions and workshops, this year’s Octocon will introduce a brand-new feature: The annual National Irish Science Fiction Film Awards, in which top short films from around the world compete for the coveted ‘Golden Blaster’ award.
Octocon’s Charity Auction is always a huge draw, with bidders aiming to get their hands on rare books, original manuscripts and artwork, one-of-a-kind collectibles, and more, all donated to the convention by generous participants. This year’s chosen charity is the parent-funded ABA school Achieve – the auction will take place during the convention on Saturday October 10th.
Octocon is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to facilitating discussion of speculative fiction since 1990. Octocon 2009 is scheduled for the 10th and 11th of October. For a full list of guests and details of how to join see www.Octocon.com
