Event Title: Elon Musk in Context
Elon Musk is not the first wealthy technologist to get involved with politics. Ben Franklin, Paul Revere, Eli Whitney (for a while), Cornelius Vanderbilt, John Ericsson, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Herbert Hoover, Charles Lindberg, Howard Hughes, William Shockley, David Packard, William Gates, Jeff Bezos and others through history have combined technological business success with sometimes questionable political involvement. How different is Musk? Is there a good Elon and a bad Elon, or are they somehow one and the same person?
Suggested by: G. David Nordley on 1/20/2025
Event Title: A Pirate’s Life For Me
Pirates have been around since five minutes after boats first floated, but why did people choose that life, and why do some still choose it? Join the discussion of why people of many different time periods and cultures (and fandom characters) reached the end of their rope and became pirates…even when the end of a rope is exactly what awaited them afterwards.
Suggested by: Ozgur K. Sahin on 1/17/2025
Event Title: Why are Rogues in Vogue?
From fantasy to sci-fi, anime to romance, and Jack Sparrow of Pirates of the Caribbean to Marcus Cole of Babylon 5, the appeal of rogues is omnipresent. What is it that we find so fundamentally appealing about them, and why do people genuinely look to the rule-breakers for heroism in fiction?
Suggested by: Ozgur K. Sahin on 1/17/2025
Event Title: Learning to Write from Fan Fiction
Putting words on a page–any page–is pretty much required for writing. How can writing fan fiction help with this process? What tropes or writing styles are being adapted from fan fiction into published works? Is there anything that should be avoided?
Suggested by: Lisa Freitag on 1/15/2025
Event Title: Weirding the West
From movies like “Cowboys & Aliens” to local author Michael Merriam’s own work and beyond, creators have come with some great and wild spins on Westerns with supernatural elements. Let’s discuss some favs and why this subgenre has enduring charm.
Suggested by: Catherine Lundoff on 1/13/2025
Event Title: Fantasy + Mysteries = 2 Great Tastes that Taste Great Together
Panel discussion on mysteries with fantasy elements and the reverse. Let’s talk about some of our favorites, what we’d like to see and more!
Suggested by: Catherine Lundoff on 1/13/2025
Event Title: NASA in 2025
NASA’s leadership will be changing in a huge way in 2025, with a Space Entrepreneur becoming the new administrator of NASA in the form of Polaris Dawn and Inspiration 4 Commander, Jared Isaacman. What programs will be ongoing, which will be changing, and what programs might be cancelled? Join Mike Urvand, space educator and NASA Solar System Ambassador as he goes over the changes to the program and what they might mean for your favorite mission!
Suggested by: Mike Urvand on 1/6/2025
Event Title: Violence Solves Everything
A discussion of fighting in films including stunt work, fight choreography, armory and what the path is to becoming a fight professional in film. This panel features members of The Fight Monkeys, an award winning Minneapolis based fight performance team.
Suggested by: Lee Fillingsness on 1/6/2025
Event Title: Total Eclipses
We’ll discuss Eclipses of the Sun, Moon, and all sorts of other objects. First we’ll highlight (or low light?) upcoming solar eclipses on Earth, and some lunar eclipses. We’ll also describe how eclipses of stars by asteroids reveal their shapes, how eclipses of the Sun by Jupiter helped determine the speed of light, how eclipses of the Sun by Earth affect communications satellites and spurred the development of batteries. Eclipses have affected the culture on Earth, so they might affect cultures on other worlds as well.
Suggested by: G. David Nordley on 1/4/2025
Event Title: Rogue Planets in Science and Science Fiction
Let’s talk about rogue planets–planets without stars. They have been caught bending light when passing in front of stars, and glowing red hot in empty space soon after their formation. From the “comet” in Jules Verne’s Hector Servadac to the twin planets in Balmer and Wylie’s When Worlds Collide, and Martin’s The Dying of the Light, the sunless have had a role in science fiction as well. Under certain conditions, a rogue planet or its moon system might even host life or a scientific research station as in Lowe and Nordley’s Black Hole Project.
Suggested by: G. David Nordley on 1/4/2025
Event Title: Aros & Aces in Sci-Fi/Fantasy
An asexual (ace) is someone who does not experience sexual attraction. An aromantic (aro) does not experience romantic attraction. (There’s a bit more complexity to that, as in all things, but that’s the gist.) Both aces and aros have been around in sci-fi and fantasy for a while–intentionally and not. But they–and other queer characters–aren’t always portrayed positively, or even human. Robots, demons, aliens, Dark Lords, can we get some proper rep in here? Or is bad representation better than no representation?
Suggested by: C. M. Alongi on 1/4/2025
Event Title: Bookish Trivia
Test your knowledge of sci-fi/fantasy books in Bookish Trivia! The questions get more difficult every round, and the team (or individual, if you shun teams) with the most points gets to take home a basket of bookish goodies!
Suggested by: C. M. Alongi on 1/4/2025
Event Title: Planner vs Pantser: Writer Fight
All writers fall somewhere on the spectrum of Planner vs Pantser. Planners plan the entire story, world, characters, before they even star Chapter One. Pantsers quite literally make it up as they go (flying by the seat of their pants). Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each approach. And if we can’t talk it out, we’ll have a gladiatorial death match to decide once and for all which is the superior–wait, we can’t? Legal liability? Fiiiine.
Suggested by: C. M. Alongi on 1/4/2025
Event Title: 501st Legion+Rebel Legion+Mando Mercs – Who We Are, What We Do and How to Join
501st Legion+Rebel Legion+Mando Mercs, we are international non-profit charity groups who make and wear screen accurate Star Wars costumes to bring joy and raise money for those in need. We routinely partner with Make-A-Wish, Children’s Hospitals and more to accomplish these goals!
Suggested by: Jill McTavish on 1/3/2025
Event Title: Minnesota MUFON
What has been happening in Minnesota sightings and field investigators reports
Suggested by: Joe Swenson on 12/30/24
Event Title: Costumers Gone “Rogue” Photo Op
Are you bringing the “Rogue” to Marscon this year? Get together with a gang of Rogues and take some photos!
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Global Warming Survivalists
It’s too late, and we are already in the hot seat. Discussion of coping strategies as we adapt to our changed environment.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Super Edgy Superheroes
When super powers corrupt absolutely, is anyone safe? Think the Boys, Watchmen, Invincible, Wanted, Heroes, I Am Not OK with This…
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Dragons in SF/Fantasy
Discuss everything dragons. From the unnamed dragon in Beowulf, and Sir Gawain’s “worms”, to The Hobbit’s Smaug, Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern, Eragon, and the many dragons featured in other works of fiction such as George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Broad Universe Rapid Fire Readings
Description: Members are invited and encouraged to share from their works. Broad Universe is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, encouraging, honoring, and celebrating women and historically excluded and marginalized genders writing, editing and publishing in science fiction, fantasy, horror, and other speculative genres. FFI:https://www.broaduniverse.org/
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Best of Classic Who: A Doctor Who Retrospective Celebrating the First 26+ Years
Description: Doctor Who is a British science fiction television series broadcast by the BBC since 1963. The main character, the Doctor travels in the universe and in time using a time travelling spaceship called the TARDIS, which externally appears as a British police box. As the Doctor periodically needs to regenerate into a new body, the character has been recast numerous times. This discussion of “classic” Who will cover portrayals by William Hartnell, Patrick Troughton, Jon Pertwee, Tom Baker, Peter Davison, Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy, as well as Paul McGann’s attempted revival of the franchise, and the movies which featured Peter Cushing as the Doctor.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Best of New WHO: A 20 Year Revival and Celebration of Doctor Who
Description: There is so much to talk about! Since the British SF tv series’ re-launch in 2005, the time and space-traveling Doctor has been portrayed by Christopher Eccelston, David Tennant, Matt Smith, Peter Capaldi, Jodie Whittaker, and now Ncuti Gatwa. Share your squee moments, celebrate with fellow fans, and introduce new fans to Doctor Who.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Science Fiction Innovations
Description: Science fiction has served as inspiration and often a predictor for real life inventions over the decades—from robots and autonomous cars to cell phones, 3D printing, the Internet and artificial intelligence. Let’s discuss science fiction’s contributions to the modern world and where we may head in the not distant future.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of the 21st Century (So Far)
Description: Bring your recommendations and we can compile a list of books for everyone seeking new adventures in SF/fantasy literature.
Suggested by: Christine LaBounty on 12/28/24
Event Title: Convention Event Planners Meetup
Description:Are you an event planner for cons? Great! Let’s talk about what’s working, not working, and everything in-between.
Suggested by: Rae Silberman on 12/18/24
Event Title: Last Fan Standing
Description: Pop culture trivia! Test your knowledge as you compete against other fans to be the Last Fan Standing. Based on the trivia show of the same name! Come win some fun prizes or just play along from the crowd.
Suggested by: Khori Vaerconum on 12/17/24
Event Title: Last Fan Standing
Description: Pop culture trivia! Test your knowledge as you compete against other fans to be the Last Fan Standing. Based on the trivia show of the same name! Come win some fun prizes or just play along from the crowd.
Suggested by: Khori Vaerconum on 12/17/24
Event Title: Speed Friending!
Description: Speed Friending is one of MNeurodivergent’s signature events. Similar in idea to speed dating, but for friendship! Two rows of people sit across from each other. They then talk to that person across from them for 5 minutes. In order to help get the conversation going, we have sheets of ice-breaker questions available. Important note about speed friending: it is not separated by gender, age, race, sexual identity, etc. Everyone will have an opportunity to talk to everyone, time permitting. Come and have fun and make some new friends!
Suggested by: Mitchell P Schaps on 11/27/24
Event Title: What Are Furries and Why Are They at My Con?
Description:You’ve heard the term “furry” and “furries” spoken at the con, more within the last few years, but have no idea what they are and more importantly, why would they invade MarsCon of all places? Turka Wusky is here to explain what a furry is, and why they too would be wanting to take part in a sci-fi convention. All ages welcome panel.
Suggested by: Turka Wusky on 11/27/24
Event Title: Creating an Inclusive Mythology
Description: Mythology is more than fantasy or historical fiction. It takes what defines us as cultures and drives us as individuals. Mythology is every bit as powerful as any true story because you never really know how much truth there is in a legend. Join me in a discussion about crafting my own inclusive mythology for stories and learn how I took my historical and intelligence background to craft a modern mythology with ancient stories.
Suggested by: Faith MacGregor on 11/12/24
Event Title: My experience with aliens while serving with the USAF space programs: the 60 in 3 & 20 and back USAF space programs.
Description: I spent approximately 60 years with aliens, which only took 3 earth days (60 in 3 & 20 and back). The aliens were similar in appearance to caucasian humans. During my time with them, I also saw grays and sasquatch-like aliens, as well as insectoid species. My 50 year non-diclosure agreement (NDA) has expired and I can talk about some of what these programs are about. There will also be a Q&A if time permits.
Suggested by: Joe Swenson on 10/31/24
Event Title: How to Throw a Party Room
Description: Have you thought about doing a party room at con, but weren’t sure where to begin? Join us to talk about party rooms, and what it takes to do one.
Suggested by: Rae Lundquist on 10/20/24
Event Title: Haedong Kumdo Demostration
Description: Haedong Kumdo is a Korean Sword Art form using one or two swords.
Many action, fantasy, and anime have different sword work.
Come join us as we demonstrate basic movements, sword cutting, and new two handed sword forms.
There will be a follow up panel to come and play.
Suggested by: Steve Erickson on 10/20/24
Event Title: Haedong Kumdo Basic Cuts and Paper Cutting
Description: Come join the Kumdo demonstration group on how to learn to cut with a wooden sword. After about 30 minutes of instruction, put into practice what you have learned doing some cutting practice.
Suggested by: Steve Erickson on 10/20/24
Event Title: A Year in Trek
Description: Join us as we take a comprehensive look back at the remarkable events and milestones that have shaped the Star Trek universe over the past year. With the diamond anniversary of this iconic franchise approaching, we’ll reflect on the journeys we’ve embarked upon across various series, films, and the exciting new projects on the horizon. Get ready for spoilers as we delve into:
The Fan events, including Universal Studios Hollywood’s Universal Fan Fest Nights: Star Trek Nights, “To the Journey” documentary, and Khan!!! The Musical! We’ll also talk about the conclusion of Discovery, Prodigy, and Lower Decks, and the highly anticipated movie event Section 31, along with upcoming seasons of Strange New Worlds and Starfleet Academy. A glimpse into the future with thrilling projects like a live-action comedy, an origin movie, Star Trek 4, and a musical Broadway show.
Suggested by: Tony Artym on 10/14/24
Event Title: Revolution Dance Party
Description: 2D Con in conjunction with MarsCon presents REVOLUTION! Join the DJs from 2D Con for a night of dancing at the ultimate intergalactic dance party. We’ve got an amazing lineup of DJs spinning remixes all night long. It will be out of this world!
Suggested by: 2D Con on 9/26/24
Event Title: Rockin Tattoos
Description: Come get some fresh ink from Rockin Tattoos, tattoo room. Featuring amazing tattoo artists with different styles, and designs from the nerd universe! Tattoo prices are dependent on artist rates and piece.
Suggested by: Rockin Tattoos on 9/26/24
Event Title: Sci-fi Series Revisited
Description: Let’s talk about our favorite TV shows which are currently in the rearview mirror. Maybe they are a distant, pleasant memory. Maybe we are trying to revive them or simply revisit. Alias, Buffy, Battlestar Galactica, Firefly, Heroes, Smallville, Earth 2, and of course Babylon 5.
Suggested by: CL on 9/16/24
Event Title: FX Makeup Techniques, Trauma Makeup
Description: Cuts and bruises and gashes, oh my! Have you ever wanted to up your cosplay makeup game and create realistic looking wounds and trauma looks? This FX makeup panel will show you step by step how to create bruising, cuts, and gashes, perfect for zombie/horror looks, or any “traumatic” cosplay! For beginners to intermediate.
Suggested by: Kevin Doheny on 9/16/24
Event Title: Hentai Game Show!
Description: Join us for an adult (18+) game show where contestants compete for prizes. Volunteers from the audience competeand play adult-themed games. These fun naughty games are for aliens and humans alike. Come show us your bawdy side, or just be a voyeur! Prizes donated by Fantasy Gifts.
Suggested by: Kevin Doheny on 9/16/24
Event Title: Hallway Costume Contest
Description: Our Hallway Costume Contest begins at the start of the con on Friday and goes until 5pm Saturday. The best part is you don’t have to sign up or do anything, other than wear your costume around con. We will have secret judges roaming the halls, and if you win, they will award you with a special button (bragging rights!), and your picture will be posted on our website and social media. There will be multiple winners during the weekend!
Suggested by: Kevin Doheny on 9/16/24
Event Title: New At Disney Parks
Description: Join us for an exciting and magical journey as we explore the latest and greatest updates coming to Disney Parks in 2025! Whether you’re a seasoned Disney fan or a first-time visitor, this program is your ultimate guide to all the new attractions, shows, dining experiences, and magical moments awaiting you at Disney Parks worldwide. Stay up-to-date with what’s new and discover how Disney continues to innovate and enchant visitors of all ages.
Suggested by: Tony Artym 7/7/24
Event Title: How Rogue Can You Go?
Description: A full-length Comedy Improv story to fill in the details of what occurred during the Opening Ceremonies by having the Audience answer the question “what if.”
Suggested by: Variety Exhumed 7/31/24
Event Title: Scenes From A Hat, MarsCon Edition
Description: Improv comedy from a local long running improv troupe, TV, online, and stage show. SFAH has been making audiences laugh since 2017.
Suggested by: Steve Murphy 3/15/24
Here are some great examples of Program (panel) Ideas that we’ve received in the past: