The Memphis Comic and Fantasy Convention is a multi-genre fan convention founded in 2010. The three-day convention takes place every fall at the Hilton Memphis Hotel. It usually kicks off with a presentation by a notable figure in the comic book industry. The following three days are filled with a wide array of events, ranging from panels with celebrity guests to educational activities.
The program of the convention is dedicated to all aspects of contemporary pop culture including comic books, anime and manga, cosplay, science fiction, fantasy, films, television shows, video games, and more. It features panels, autograph sessions and photo-ops with celebrity guests, gaming tournaments, film screenings, Artists Alley, a costume competition, workshops, special events dedicated to particular fandoms or genres such as the Harry Potter franchise or steampunk, and more.
Of course, every convention features special guests. The organizers invite well-known actors, filmmakers, writers, comic book authors, artists, and cosplayers. Previous media guests include voice actor Thomas Kenny (SpongeBob SquarePants, Adventure Time), actress Denise Crosby (Star Trek: The Next Generation), actor and voice artist John de Lancie (Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic), professional wrestler Jerry Lawler, animator, comic book artist and musician Chance Raspberry (The Simpsons), and others.
The Memphis Comic and Fantasy Convention pays special attention to educational programs. Its Geek 101 Field Trip features hands-on activities and interactive presentations for school students hosted by professional actors, comic book artists, authors, and even space scientists. Local teachers are encouraged to bring their classes to Geek 101. Individual parent and student groups, home schooled students, and out of town school groups can attend, too. The convention also hosts comic and film making workshops for students.
