Chicago To Host "Wakandacon" This Summer

Apr 11

Black Panther continues to break box office records, sailing past Titanic's box office record earlier this week, so I guess it was just a matter of time before the Marvel movie got it's own convention. Wakandacon - an unofficial, fan-driven convention - is heading to Chicago April 3rd-5th.

Organizers say the 3-day event will feature panels, lectures, workshops, and live entertainment celebrating "Afro-futurism, tech, and community outreach." According to the press release, Black Panther was the inspiration for the new convention, but Ali Barthwell, co-founder of Wakandacon, says the organizing group wanted to do more:

“The moment we saw Wakanda in film, we wanted a space to gather and talk about everything African-Americans are passionate about. Afro-Futurism is about imagining a future for Black people all around the world. Wakandacon is a space for Black people to look past the present and into our future.”

Along with educational and entertaining programming, Wakandacon will also feature a marketplace for African-American small business owners. Weekend passes to the event are currently available for $35, and it looks like fans who can't make the trip to Chicago can pay for a $10 "digital pass" that will provide dedicated streaming throughout the weekend.

It looks like Wakandacon is accepting submissions for volunteers, programming, vendors, and sponsors. Head over to the website for more information.