CONvergence Convention

Twin Cities Metro Transit, Traffic, and Road Closures During CONvergence 2023

Posted on July 4, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Jeffrey Posted in Transportation

CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… starts on Thursday in downtown Minneapolis, MN and those of us without a Transporter or a Warp Drive may need to rely on overland travel.

Many CONvergence members will be using Metro Transit to get to the con. If you are planning on taking a bus or a train, head over to the Bus and Train page.

Of course, some people will be driving to the convention and parking Downtown.

If you want to avoid flying right through a star or bouncing too close to a supernova, here is a list of current and upcoming road construction projects in the Twin Cities Metro area that may impede, obstruct, or otherwise complicate your travel to and from CONvergence.

MNDOT Closures and Detours

Please refer to the MNDOT website for additional updates or closures or use the 511 app to plan your travel.

MN 65 in both directions: Bridge closed
Between South 1st Street and Southeast 2nd Street (Minneapolis). The bridge is closed. Bridge construction work is in progress. Follow the detour signs. Until October 31, 2023 at about 6:00PM CDT. Mon, Jan. 4 2021 through Fall of 2023 The Third Ave. Bridge is fully closed. Vehicle and transit detour: Hennepin Ave. and First Ave. Metro Transit detour: 3rd Ave./Central Ave. Pedestrian detour: Hennepin Ave. Bridge Bicycle detour: Stone Arch Bridge. For more info associated with this project: Click Here
MN 65 southbound: Exit ramp closed
At Entrance ramp from CH 10 W. The exit ramp is closed. Bridge construction work is in progress. Until July 31, 2023 at about 5:00AM CDT.
I-35W northbound: Road construction
Between 50th Street and Exit 14: East 36th Street (Minneapolis). Road construction work is in progress. A lane is closed. Until October 31, 2023 at about 7:00PM CDT. Comment: The right lane is closed for construction of 6 underground storm water storage tanks between 42nd St. and 40th St. in South Minneapolis. For additional information: Click Here
I-35W southbound: Entrance ramp closed
At Entrance ramp from CH 1 / 98th St. The entrance ramp is closed. Look out for construction work. Until August 14, 2023 at about 5:00PM CDT. For detour routes and other project information: Click Here
MN 55 in both directions: Roadway reduced to one lane
Between East 26th Street and East 28th Street (Minneapolis). The roadway is reduced to one lane. Bridge construction work is in progress. Until July 28, 2023 at about 7:00AM CDT. Comment: Bridge Repair Work.
I-94 westbound: Exit ramp closed
At Exit 228 ramp to Dowling Ave N. The exit ramp is closed. Look out for construction work. Until August 16, 2023 at about 10:00PM CDT.
I-94 westbound: Roadway reduced to two lanes
Between Exit 249 (Woodbury) and Century Avenue (Maplewood). The roadway is reduced to two lanes. Road construction work is in progress. Until July 15, 2023 at about 5:00PM CDT. Comment: Daily closure for construction work. For more information: Click Here
MN 36 eastbound: Entrance ramp closed
At Entrance ramp from Fairview Ave. The entrance ramp is closed because of construction work. Until July 25, 2023 at about 7:00PM CDT. Comment: Closed for ramp reconstruction work. For more information: Click Here
MN 41 in both directions: Road closed
At Peavey Road (Chaska). The road is closed. Road construction work is in progress. Follow the detour signs. Until October 6, 2023 at about 7:00PM CDT. Comment: Road closed for construction of roundabout 41@Peavey Road. For more information: Click Here
MN 52 in both directions: Roadway reduced to one lane & ramp closures
Between 280th Street East (3 miles north of Cannon Falls) and MN 55 (Rosemount). The roadway is reduced to one lane. There is head to head traffic on the roadway. Be aware of narrow lanes. Width limit 9’6″. Vehicle length limit 75 ft. Until July 16, 2023 at about 11:45PM CDT. Comment: 9-1/2′ load width restriction, legal length restriction. Several ramps will be closed. For more information: Click Here
US 61 in both directions: Roadway reduced to one lane
Between Buerkle Road and County Road E E (Vadnais Heights). The roadway is reduced to one lane. Road construction work is in progress. Width limit 12’0″. Until August 2, 2023 at about 5:00PM CDT.
US 169 southbound: Entrance ramp closed
At Entrance ramp from CR 9 W / Rockford Rd. The entrance ramp is closed. Look out for construction work. Bridge construction work is in progress. Until November 30, 2023 at about 11:59PM CDT. For additional information on this project: Click Here
US 169 southbound: Lane closed
Between Bass Lake Road and Exit 135: 49th Avenue North (New Hope). A lane is closed. No permit restrictions. Right lane closed for guardrail repair
US 212 in both directions: Roadway reduced to one lane.
Between MN 5 and MN 13 (Mendota). The road is closed. Look out for construction work. Until Friday, at about 5:00PM CDT.
US 212 in both directions: Roadway reduced to one lane
Between MN 284 and Kelly Avenue (1 to 4 miles east of Cologne). The roadway is reduced to one lane. Until July 10, 2023 at about 10:00PM CDT. Comment: Left lane closed for pavement repair

Metro Transit Closures and Detours

If you are a regular or semi-regular Metro Transit rider, you will also want to check the Rider Alerts feed for closures and detours. The best way to do this is the Rider Alerts feed on the Metro Transit website.

We strongly recommend that you consider all of your options to safely travel to the convention. Find more information on the Getting to the Convention page.

Save travels to CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up!

Tagged with: Convergence 2023, CVG2023, MNDOT

Catching up with the CONvergence 2022 Guests of Honor

Posted on July 3, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Liz Posted in Guests of Honor

With just days to go until CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up, we’re finalizing an amazing schedule of events and panels featuring this year’s impressive slate of guests. As we plan for our next nerdening, we thought we’d look back at what our Guests of Honor from CONvergence 2022: Your Reality May Vary have been up to since August of last year.

Since we last saw them, Evva Karr launched Galaxy Fund, a prototype grant for BIPOC & LGBTQ+ artists offering unrestricted funds focusing on the earliest stage of game development.

After CONvergence 2022, Matthew Kessen began a residency at Bryant-Lake Bowl, running shows that included the First Annual Monster Science Awards. His work with the Hennepin History Museum in time for Halloween was mentioned by news station KARE 11, and he also weighed in on the everlasting debate over whether King Kong or Godzilla would win in a fight.

Matthew Kessen, 2022 CONvergence Guest of Honor, and fellow performers.

Photo of Matthew Kessen from reverendmattsmonsterscience.com

As soon as CONvergence 2022 came to a close, Briana Lawrence started working at Crunchyroll as their senior features editor. In 2023 she organized Crunchyroll’s #28DaysOfBlackCosplay campaign, and is managing the Pride Month Manga Reads campaign that highlights LGBTQIA+ manga. Briana also received two book deals—watch for the forthcoming The Essential Manga Guide, to be published by Running Press, and In Search of Superpowers: A Fantasy Pin World Adventure by Andrews McMeel Publishing. Meanwhile, she promises that she’s working on the third book in her magical girl series.

Jessica Walsh has been keeping up with her review blog Well, Are They? and will be releasing a brand-new book this year. After running a successful crowdfunding campaign, Uncertain Aspects will be released this fall. The story is a blend of the supernatural and mystery, exploring the effects the titular Aspects have on the people around them.

Charles Urbach’s year since CONvergence 2022 has been filled with new art, new opportunities, and new products for bookshelves and game rooms. After a few years of quieter events, conventions have come roaring back, and he’s been relishing reconnecting with friends and fans all over the country. Charles can’t wait to return to CONvergence this July to share his new work and catch up with everyone there!

Artwork by Charles Urbach.

Jack Zipes’ panels at CONvergence 2022 inspired him to get to work, and so he has since finished two projects. One was the book The Original Bambi: The Story of a Life in the Forest, and the second was Buried Treasures: the Power of Political Fairy Tales. He has also given talks about fairy tales in the United States and London. He is currently researching in preparation for a novel dedicated to young people.

We’re looking forward to welcoming the 2023 CONvergence Guests of Honor this July and hope you’ll join us in welcoming them, too!

Tagged with: CVG2022

Planning to Hang Posters at CONvergence 2023?

Posted on July 3, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Announcements, Hotel

At the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, CONvergence members may hang family-friendly signage advertising parties, panels, performances, games, events and more in CONvergence event spaces, and in room party hallways on floors 3, 4, and 5.

CONvergence 2023 members may begin hanging posters at 1:00pm on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

Posters must be removed no later than Noon on Sunday unless specific permission is given for a later time. Members who hang posters are expected to also remove them.

DO NOT Hang Posters:

At the Hyatt front desk, Hyatt Marketplace, Fireside Lounge, the Prairie Kitchen & Bar, or from railings overlooking any of these
In stairwells, escalators, elevators, or elevator doors
In the Skyway bridge connecting the Hyatt with the Millenium
On storefronts or in businesses co-located with the Hyatt, including the Fedex, Vitali’s Cafe, and Salon Blu
On glass surfaces
On doors or door frames
Anywhere outdoors, including The Grove, the Loring Greenway, or any parking ramp

DO Hang Posters:

Virtually anywhere around CONvergence function space, as indicated on the maps
In room party hallways on floors 3, 4, and 5
On the walls of your own party room

If you are unsure whether you should hang your poster in a particular location, please find a CONvergence Operations volunteer or stop by The Bridge and ask!

All posters must be secured with the ONE TAPE: Low-tack blue painter's tape

Blue Tape poster in the style of Blue Sun Corporation from Firefly

Remember to use the One True Tape! Anything affixed to the wall or other surfaces at the Hyatt Regency Hotel MUST be secured with low-tack blue painter’s tape. All brands and models of true blue tape are permitted.

Any posters found to be secured using other kinds of tape will be taken down without notice. Low-tack blue painter’s tape can be found at most hardware stores. If you run out of tape during the convention, stop by The Bridge—they may have some available.

Poster Hanging Blitz

Looking for an easy and fun way to volunteer on Thursday morning? Come to the Volunteers Table on the second floor and help hang up official CONvergence posters and signage!

When: Thursday at 11:00am
Where: Volunteers Table (2nd floor in Greenway J, right across from Registration Badge Pick-up)
What to bring: Yourself and any friends who want to help! Wear comfortable shoes. If you have a roll of blue tape, even better!

This is a great, fun opportunity to get some pre-con volunteer hours clocked before everything kicks off! There are SignUpGenius shifts for the Poster Hanging Blitz added to the Volunteers At Large tab if you would like to use that to plan your volunteering, but you can also just show up to help, too!

Remember, if you are planning to hang your own posters at CONvergence, you can begin doing that at 1:00pm on Thursday. The Poster Hanging Blitz on Thursday morning is for official CONvergence signage only.

Tagged with: CVG2023, Posters

Watch CONvergence 2023 Events Live in Your Hotel Room With a Streaming Device

Posted on July 2, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in CVG-TV

Due to a change in Hyatt Regency’s corporate policy, CONvergence’s CVG-TV is no longer able to stream events live to a TV channel as it did at CONvergence 2022. But you can still watch scheduled CONvergence events (and a few surprises) live in your hotel room.

To watch CVG-TV in your hotel room, hook a streaming device up to your hotel TV.

Streaming devices you could use include but are not limited to:

Each of those links to a tutorial for setting it up in a hotel room!

Subscribe to CVG-TV Streams

CVG-TV is Live Streamed in three convenient places, so any device that can stream from YouTube or Twitch should work. This includes your mobile phone or tablet!

Be sure to subscribe or follow your platform of choice. If you do, you’ll get a notification whenever CVG-TV goes live!

CVG-TV Streaming Schedule

Find the schedule of CONvergence 2023 events that will be live streamed on YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook on the CVG-TV page.

Tagged with: CVG-TV, CVG2023

CONvergence Is Us, and CONvergence 2023 Needs You

Posted on July 2, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Volunteers

One of the things that makes CONvergence unique is the powerful volunteer culture that makes the convention happen in the first place. CONvergence itself is 100% run by volunteers, from the over 200 members of the year-round convention committee to the over 800 staff and members who volunteer during the convention to make CONvergence the unique and immersive event that it is!

What this means is: CONvergence is, literally, us. It’s by fans, for fans, and done for the sake of having the convention we want to have—where awesome experiences, community atmosphere and support, and fun, unique stuff to do are the priority. Without all of us pitching in to make CONvergence go, CONvergence doesn’t happen. But when we all do pitch in and volunteer, the result is an amazing event with an amazing community.

Sign Up to Volunteer

It’s easy to schedule time to volunteer at CONvergence! There are lots of volunteer opportunities that you can sign up for online at CONvergence Volunteers SignUpGenius.

First time using SignUp Genius? Head over to the Signing Up for Volunteer Shifts page for video and text tutorials!

Sign Up For Volunteer Shifts

You can exchange volunteer hours you earn for Volunteer Thank-You Gifts such as a CONvergence volunteer T-shirt, bike repair kit, zipped portfolio, travel bag, and more. (You must be a registered member of CONvergence 2023 to volunteer at CONvergence 2023.)

If you find yourself with down time during the convention and want to volunteer without having scheduled a shift, no problem! Just pop in to SignUpGenius and grab a shift from anywhere! Or, head over to the Volunteers Table (2nd floor in Greenway J, right across from Registration Badge Pick-up) and the volunteers there will connect you with a great way to help your fellow CONvergence members.

Volunteers with Different Skillsets Are Always Needed

These CONvergence departments are currently seeking a few extra skilled volunteers. Do you have the skills and passion to help in these areas?

CVG-TV Needs Camera Operators

CONvergence’s television production department, CVG-TV, is seeking more camera operators for CONvergence 2023 and for productions throughout the year. Do you have any experience operating video cameras, or would you like to be trained to do so? Do you have more experience with video shoots or editing and want to get involved with year-round productions? Contact CVG-TV to learn more about joining their crew!

CVG-TV Camera operator getting footage at CONvergence

A CVG-TV video shoot with a gandalf cosplayer up on the monitor and volunteer camera operators in the background

Photography Needs Photographers

CONvergence’s Photography department needs more photographers on the ground to capture the unique vibes of CONvergence 2023. Do you have a DSLR camera and a desire to help? Contact Photography to get involved!

Accessibility & Inclusion Needs ASL Interpreters

CONvergence provides ASL Interpreters by request for members, and is always seeking American Sign Language interpreters who are interested in volunteering their interpreter skills to help make CONvergence more accessible for Deaf fans! Contact the Accessibility & Inclusion department for more information about being an ASL interpreter at CONvergence!

Connie’s Quantum Sandbox Needs Your Cosplay Repair Skills

This year, we are (beta) testing a costume repair station inside Connie’s Quantum Sandbox! It will be open during all Sandbox hours. We will have basic tools for small costume emergencies such as sewing needles, thread, scissors, hot glue gun, etc. These items can be used by CONvergence members while at the station.

Do you have costuming skills you’d like to share with the repair station? Do you love to provide emergency repairs at conventions? Let us know by using this form, or contact Connie’s Quantum Sandbox via email for details on being one of our volunteer repairers!

Connie’s Quantum Sandbox Needs Your Customer Relations Skills

Connie’s Quantum Sandbox also needs Sandbox Lab Specialists to help keep the Sandbox Lab tidy and to help members choose activities to do! If you love spending time in the Sandbox during CONvergence, this is probably the volunteer job for you! Contact Connie’s Quantum Sandbox to get started.

So, So Many Volunteer Positions

There are many more volunteer opportunities for volunteers with special skills listed on CONvergence’s Volunteer positions page.

Virtually every skill is needed in one way or another, from computer programming to graphic design, to copywriting, to baristas. Everything you see, read, and experience about or at CONvergence is run by volunteers just like you. These words you are reading right now were written by a volunteer! (Hi.)

You Can Sign Up For Volunteer Shifts Right Now

If you can, schedule your CONvergence volunteering early using CONvergence Volunteers SignUpGenius. It’s a huge help to CONvergence ConCom volunteer staff to know they will have enough people to run a particular thing in the convention. You can also pick up volunteer shifts during your downtime at the convention using the same system!

Sign Up For Volunteer Shifts

Tagged with: CVG2023, Volunteering

Get the CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… Mobile App!

Posted on June 30, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Programming, Volunteers

The CONvergence 2023 schedule has been cut, stitched, pressed, painted, bedazzled, and is ready for you to start planning your CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up! You can view the schedule on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet by simply visiting cvgcon.org/schedule.

Make an account, connect with your CONvergence friends, and start planning all the cool things you are going to do at the convention before you even arrive at the hotels!

Download the Mobile App

Keeping track of your CONvergence schedule during the convention is easy with the Native CVG2023 app or the Sched mobile schedule app for both iOS and Android!

CVG2023 App:

CVG2023 for iOS
CVG2023 for Android

The CVG2023 app downloads the schedule to your local phone storage, meaning it will not use your mobile data in the background. Because of this, you will need to manually refresh the app data in order to see schedule updates. We recommend doing this at least once per day during the convention. Simply go to “My Account” and select “Refresh All Data” any time you would like to refresh the schedule.

Sched App:

If you are using the Sched app, search for “CONvergence 2023”. Use the “My Sched” link at the top to create or login to an account, connect with your CONvergence friends, and start planning all the cool things you are going to do at the convention before you even arrive at the hotels!

If your mobile device is something other than iOS or Android, or if you don’t want to download an app, you can still access the CONvergence 2023 schedule on your mobile device by navigating to convergence2023.sched.com in your browser app.

If you have any questions about the mobile app or the CONvergence 2023 schedule, please contact CONvergence Programming.

Cinema Rex Schedule

Due to the license agreement bringing an amazing line-up of fine films our way at CONvergence 2023, Cinema Rex will not publish the entire movie schedule online.

The full Cinema Rex schedule will be printed in the CONvergence Programming Guide, and posted on Cinema Rex fliers around the hotel. You can also visit Superior Rooms A&B on the 5th floor of the Hyatt Regency at any time during the convention to see what’s playing for the day.

If you use the online schedule or app, you’ll notice that there are time blocks for Cinema Rex movies that do not list the movie name or description. This way, after you see the fun line up events and films slated for your viewing pleasure, you can still use the online schedule or app to add Cinema Rex to the legendary journey that is sure to become your convention weekend.

Convergence Events, Inc. Open Meeting

Attend the annual open meeting for Convergence Events, Inc. during CONvergence. Get an update on the latest with the organization that runs CONvergence with members of the Convergence Events Board of Directors, ask questions, and give feedback. If you’re interested in joining the CONvergence ConCom, this is a great at-con opportunity to catch a board member and ask them about that!

When: Friday at 5:00pm
Where: Hyatt 4 Great Lakes A2
What to bring: Curiosity, kindness, and caffeine!

Head to the Convergence Events, Inc. website to learn more about CONvergence’s parent organization.

Schedule Your Volunteering

While you are planning your CONvergence 2023 and all the fun things you want do during the con, don’t forget to schedule some time to volunteer at CONvergence. The entire convention is run by volunteers just like you, and it needs your help to keep everything running! There are lots of volunteer opportunities that you can sign up for online at CONvergence Volunteers SignUpGenius.

First time using SignUp Genius? Head over to the Signing Up for Volunteer Shifts page for video and text tutorials!

Sign Up For Volunteer Shifts

If you find yourself with down time during the convention and want to volunteer without having scheduled a shift, no problem! Just pop in to SignUpGenius and grab a shift from anywhere! Or, head over to the Volunteers Table (2nd floor in Greenway J, right across from Registration Badge Pick-up) and the volunteers there will connect you with a great way to help your fellow CONvergence members.

Poster Hanging Blitz

Looking for an easy and fun way to volunteer on Thursday morning? Come to the Volunteers Table on the second floor and help hang up official CONvergence posters and signage!

This is a great, fun opportunity to get some pre-con volunteer hours clocked before everything kicks off! There will also be SignUpGenius shifts for the Poster Hanging Blitz added to the Volunteers At Large tab by this weekend if you would like to use that to plan your volunteering, but you can also just show up to help, too!

Tagged with: CVG2023

CONvergence 2023 Membership Prices Increase by $20 after May 15!

Posted on May 14, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Guests of Honor, Registration & Badges

Have you registered for CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… yet?

After Monday, May 15, 2023, CONvergence 4-day weekend membership prices will increase by $20. Register before Midnight on May 15, 2023 to get your Adult 4-day membership for just $115; Teen memberships are just $55 and Kids are $35. You can still save $20* per adult and teen membership.

Register Now

Use the $20 per membership* you will save to grab awesome stuff in the Art Show, Artists Alley, Dealers Room, CONvergence Merchandise, GPS Charity Auction, or just order more badge ribbons!
*At the door 4-day registration price is $135 for adults and $75 for teens.

After you register for CONvergence 2023, don’t forget to remind your friends about the upcoming price increase! Plus, if you are planning to be there, they probably will want to know that!

CONvergence 2023 Policies

CONvergence has published its 2023 convention policies on the policies page, including this year’s COVID-19 policies. Be sure to read through them!

Meet Our CONvergence 2023 Guests of Honor

Don’t forget to read about the awesome Guests of Honor that CONvergence will be welcoming to the con in 2023!

Maurice Broaddus

With a dozen novels and nearly 100 short stories in print, Maurice Broaddus is a prolific author, editor, accidental teacher (at the Oaks Academy Middle School), accidental librarian (the School Library Manager), and purposeful community organizer (resident Afrofuturist at the Kheprw Institute). Maurice’s work has appeared in Magazine of F&SF, Lightspeed Magazine, Black Panther: Tales from Wakanda, Weird Tales, and Uncanny Magazine, with some of his stories having been collected in The Voices of Martyrs.

Colette Feehan

Colette Freehan, PHD is an audiobook director, voice actor, and linguist who has worked on and directed over 30 audiobooks. She completed her PhD in linguistics using 3D/4D ultrasound to look at the anatomy of how voice actors make different voices. As a voice actor, Collette can perform many different kinds of voice overs. Some of her favorites are: young children, animal sounds, and adult women. She can perform an array of different accents in English, as well as VO performances in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.

Samantha Rei

Samantha Rei is a fashion designer, artist, and YouTube personality. She and her work have been featured in Huffington Post, Shojo Beat, The American Gothic and Lolita Bible, Gothic Beauty, Glamour UK and Vogue UK. Samantha was named one of 2014 City Pages “Artists of the Year”, 2016 Best of the Twin Cities “Best Fashion Show”, and 2016 and 2017 Reader’s Choice “Best Local Fashion Designer.” In 2015 she authored and illustrated Steampunk and Cosplay Fashion Design and Illustration, a how-to book on subculture fashion design.

Michael “Knightmage” Wilson

Michael “Knightmage” Wilson is an international cosplay entertainer, philanthropist, and stuntman. He began cosplaying in 2012, drawing from a life-long love for comics and video games, and has since created over 100 costumes, many of his works having been praised and displayed on numerous platforms in print and online. Michael has been listed as one of the top male cosplayers in the world from websites such as The Richest, Screencrush, The Nerdery, Kotaku, Geeks are Sexy, and more.

We can’t wait to see you and your friends at CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up…! What are you going to wear???

Tagged with: CVG2023, guests of honor

May the 4th Be With You! 1/4 off CONvergence Registration TODAY ONLY!

Posted on May 4, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Accessibility, Announcements, Masquerade, Volunteers

To celebrate Star Wars Day 2023, CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… is offering a special 1/4 off registration for one day only! We’ve got a good feeling about this.

Register for CONvergence before Midnight on Thursday, May 4, 2023 and use code MAY1/4OFFBEWITHYOU to get the Star Wars Day discount.

Register Now

After you register for CONvergence 2023, don’t forget to tell your friends about today’s discount and remind them about the annual upcoming price increase after May 15!

Don’t delay, because this discount will be gone faster than Han can do the Kessel Run.

New to CONvergence 2023: Masquerade Ball

Immediately following Masquerade on Saturday evening of the convention, head to CONvergence MainStage and dance the night away in the CONvergence Masquerade Ball. It will be the hopping place to see and be seen in your finest costumes on Saturday night!

Need ASL Interpretation for CONvergence?

CONvergence is proud to offer free American Sign Language interpretation services, and welcome Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing fans to join us in our celebration of science fiction and fantasy.

If you would like American Sign Language interpretation services during CONvergence 2023, please contact the Accessibility & Inclusion department with your request by June 30, 2023.

Visit the Accessibility & Inclusion page for more information about accessibility at CONvergence.

Volunteer for CONvergence

Are you interested in volunteering for CONvergence? Volunteers are always needed to help make everything you love about the convention actually happen. And, we are happy to announce that Volunteers Den will be returning to CONvergence 2023! Treat yourself to exclusive snacks just for volunteers. Head over to CONvergence’s volunteer page and ConCom General Info page to get involved volunteering with CONvergence.

The Next ConCom Meeting

The CONvergence Convention Committee (ConCom) is a team of over 200 year-round volunteer leaders and staff who plan and orchestrate everything that makes CONvergence what it is!

The next ConCom meeting is Saturday, May 13, 2023. Everyone is welcome to attend ConCom meetings.

Whether or not you are currently part of CONvergence ConCom, we’d love to see you there. It’s a great way to stay connected with the CONvergence community throughout the year! Get the zoom link to join the meeting on the CONvergence Google Calendar.

Tagged with: CVG2023

Time is running out for CONvergence 2023 Mid-year Merch! Also: Updated COVID-19 Policies

Posted on April 12, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Announcements, Art Show, Merchandise, Policies

Time is running out to show off your excitement for CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… with one of the most iconic movie dresses of all time! CONvergence 2023 Mid-Year merchandise is only available to order through April 30, 2023.

Get Connie as Queen Padmé Amidala on your CONvergence 2023 t-shirt, tank top, hoodie, coffee mug, or notebook.

Get T-Shirt, Tank, or Hoodie

Get Mug

Get Notebook

CONvergence 2023 COVID-19 Policies

We know you’ve been waiting for this clarification, so without further adieu, here are the CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… COVID-19 Policies.

Attendees 3 years of age and older will be required to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth in badged areas of the convention, including Registration, unless performing or presenting on a panel, with these exceptions:
- Parties Hallways (individual party rooms set their own mask policies)
- Dealers Room
- Artists Alley
Food and drink are available in some masked spaces. Please snack and sip responsibly, replacing your mask as soon as you’re able.
Masks must be worn over the nose and mouth. They can be fabric, procedure, or N95-type masks, but must be clean, dry, and woven tightly enough to block light. You can reference the CDC website for more information on types of masks.
It is strongly recommended that all attendees be fully vaccinated (including Omicron booster and any additional boosters released before the beginning of CONvergence 2023.) The CDC site remains active for anyone who isn’t sure if they’re up-to-date.
It is strongly recommended that attendees have a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the start of CONvergence 2023.
- We will also have a limited number of tests available for those who would like to test on site, though we ask that you do so in a hotel room or other non-public area to avoid biohazard.
- Through May 11, 2023 insurers are required to provide 8 home tests per person per month for free.

Why are we still doing this?

These policies are intended to protect CONvergence members who are especially vulnerable to COVID-19.
This is the most direct way to reduce COVID-19 spread in our community.
Vaccination and testing requirements are no longer supported by government resources, and pose a cost burden to those without access to insurance or free options.
We do not have the resources or capacity to staff a vaccination and test checking station this year.

If you have any questions or comments about COVID-19 policies at CONvergence 2023, please contact the CONvergence board of directors.

New AI-Generated Art Policy

CONvergence Events, Inc. recognizes that Artificial Intelligence has had a monumental impact on the creative community, and on visual artists in particular. As is often the case with emergent technology, the procedures and tools for ensuring those most affected by its creation have not kept pace with the technology itself. To this end, Convergence Events, Inc. is placing a blanket ban on AI-generated art in Artists Alley, Art Show and the Dealers Room for CONvergence 2023.

If you have comments regarding the ban on AI-aenerated art, please contact the CONvergence Board of Directors.

Coming to CONvergence 2023: Squee Spaces!

Need a handy spot to meet up with fellow fans during CONvergence? CONvergence 2023 will feature designated hangout spaces marked with “Squee Space” signs.

Meet your friends at the first floor in the lobby to take on the day, on second floor for some chow, or on sixth floor for a more mellow chill.

Thinking of Hosting a Party?

Although the first round of party confirmations have been sent out, applications to host a party at CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… are still open for a limited time!

Parties are a great way to connect with the convention community and show everybody how fun you can be. Any individual, group, club, business, or organization may apply to host a room party or a mobile party at CONvergence.

Head over to the Host a Party page to learn more, and to submit your application.

The Next ConCom Meeting

The CONvergence Convention Committee (ConCom) is a team of over 200 year-round volunteer leaders and staff who plan and orchestrate everything that makes CONvergence what it is!

The next ConCom meeting is Saturday, April 15, 2023. Everyone is welcome to attend ConCom meetings.

Tagged with: COVID-19, CVG2023

CONvergence Will Offer 1-Day Passes in 2023

Posted on February 9, 2023 by CONvergence Webteam Hal Posted in Announcements, Harmonic CONvergence, Merchandise, Parties, Registration & Badges

For years, fans have expressed interest in 1-day passes for CONvergence. The not-insignificant challenges involved for implementing 1-day passes have halted that conversation for over 20 years.

However, a few of CONvergence’s stated core values are:

We believe in listening with an open mind and compassion.
We believe in always being willing to learn.
We believe in taking risks, learning from our experience, and taking personal and community responsibility.
We believe in encouraging innovation and empowered decision-making.

Therefore, for the first time ever…

CONvergence 2023 Will Offer 1-day Adult Passes!

$75 each
Valid from 10:00am on day of purchase until 5:00am the following morning
Can only be purchased at the door from the registration desk (not the self-service kiosks)
Adult (18+) passes only
Not transferrable to another person
Cannot be converted into a full memberships
Will not be reissued if lost
Provide access to the entirety of the convention for one day!

Limited Time Membership Discount

Will more of your friends be able to join you at CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… with the availability of 1-day passes? If so, maybe you or they would like to spend an extra $20 to have a full 4-day CONvergence 2023 membership.

Until Midnight on February 17, 2023, use the coupon code NODAYPASSFORME to get your full 4-day CONvergence membership for just $95.

Register Now

This is your last chance to attend CONvergence for up to 4 full days at this low price point!

CONvergence 2023 Mid-Year Swag Now Available!

Show off your excitement for CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… with one of the most iconic movie dresses of all time! Get Connie as Queen Padmé Amidala on your t-shirt, hoodie, coffee mug, or notebook. All of the CONvergence 2023 Mid-Year merchandise will be available to order through April!

Red tank top with art of Connie as Queen Amidala and text that says CONvergence 2023: All dressed up

Red T-Shirt with art of Connie as Queen Amidala and text that says CONvergence 2023: All dressed up

Fitted Red T-Shirt with art of Connie as Queen Amidala and text that says CONvergence 2023: All dressed up

Red pullover hoodie with art of Connie as Queen Amidala and text that says CONvergence 2023: All dressed up

Red and White coffee mug with art of Connie as Queen Amidala and text that says CONvergence 2023: All dressed up

Want to Perform at CONvergence?

Applications to perform at CONvergence’s dedicated music stage, Harmonic CONvergence, and at CONvergence’s dedicated spoken word stage, Wordslingers Way, are currently open! Head over to the Musicians/Performers page to learn more and submit your performance applications before the deadlines.

So You’re Thinking of Hosting a Room Party

Have you ever been curious about throwing a room party at CONvergence, but didn’t know where to start? Or maybe you are just interested in a peek behind the party host looking glass.

Join us Saturday, February 25th at 2pm on Zoom for a discussion with the CONvergence Parties Department and Party Host alumni from recent years to learn the ins and outs of hosting a room party at CONvergence. Everyone is welcome! RSVP to the Facebook Event, or just click here to join via Zoom.

Applications to host a party at CONvergence 2023: All Dressed Up… are currently open! Head over to the Host a Party page to learn more, and to submit your application.

The Next ConCom Meeting

The CONvergence Convention Committee (ConCom) is a team of over 200 year-round volunteer leaders and staff who plan and orchestrate everything that makes CONvergence what it is! The next ConCom meeting is Saturday, February 18, 2023. Everyone is welcome to attend ConCom meetings.

Whether or not you are currently part of CONvergence ConCom, we’d love to see you there. It’s a great way to stay connected with the CONvergence community throughout the year! Get the Zoom link to join the meeting on the CONvergence Google Calendar.

Tagged with: CVG2023