This four-day convention at the Sheraton Resort in Kona gathers science-fiction actors, fantasy novelists, comic writers and artists, as well as scientists and science educators, for a more laid-back approach to traditional conventions. Hawai‘iCon guests are welcome to attend speaking panels and visit the artist alley—or take a swim and see otherworldly creatures right outside in the Pacific Ocean. The intimacy of the event (with only 1,500 to 2,000 average attendees) and the chill venue allows for fans to have closer contact with visiting celebrities. Special tickets are available for con attendees interested in joining guests at group dinners or diving alongside manta rays.

It’s a convention that celebrates sci-fi, and the real science behind it. “[We bring] together some of the brightest science minds in science fiction and fantasy to discuss the real-world applications of fictional ideas,” says Hawai‘iCon 2019 CEO and convention chair Jessica Gauthier. “As a STEAM education organization, we aim to teach as well as have fun so every panel, workshop and event has an element of both learning and entertainment.”

Special Guests

Lord of the Rings and Indiana Jones actor John Rhys-Davies; Star Trek: Voyager actor Garrett Wang; Warehouse 13 actor Eddie McClintock; sci-fi and fantasy fiction authors Robert J. Sawyer and Terry Brooks; comic artists Arthur Suydam and Renee Witterstaetter; and longtime Star Trekscience consultant André Bormanis.

Cost

It’s $129 for an adult four-day pass; $50 for a child four-day pass (ages 6 to 12); $30 to $50 for an adult day pass (depending on the day); and $15 to $25 for a child day pass (depending on the day).

It’s $499 for VIP membership, which includes early access to various places and events, complimentary cocktails and credit towards photo ops or autograph signings. It’s $120 to snorkel with manta rays and cool guests. (If you’re on Oahu, it’ll also cost a flight to the Big Island.)