Fans celebrate all things pop culture at library's fourth annual FanCon

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library celebrated FanCon's fourth year as more than 800 residents of all ages stopped by the annual comic book and pop culture convention on Saturday, June 13.

Fans were dressed up in all sorts of fun costumes as they made their way throughout the library, participating in more than 20 different activities. From an intense Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament hosted by The Age of the Geeks that had 78 participants to fan-themed crafts, there was something for everyone at this year's FanCon.

New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka, who is known for the popular Lunch Lady and Jedi Academy book series and his recent graphic memoir Hey, Kiddo, was one of the biggest highlights of the day as he met fans while hosting an illustrator's workshop, two book signings and an author talk.

"The best part of FanCon is having the author here," said Tania Fraser, who attended FanCon with her 10-year-old son Scot. "My son just came out of the illustrator's workshop and he drew characters from his books. […] I think it's great that the library does this."

Other popular activities included Nerd Trivia, which tested people's pop culture knowledge in a game show-style format, an appearance from the characters of Alice in Wonderland who hosted a Mad Tea Party and a photo op session, a Create Your Spidersona: Drawing Workshop and Artist's Alley, which gave convention-goers the opportunity to meet nine different artists and exhibitors.

"I think it's very entertaining to see [everyone] having fun. With all the different costumes, it's a different environment for the boys," said Joseph Urizar Sr., who attended FanCon with his mother and two sons. "My mom noticed that it's the diversity that sticks out. It's a welcoming environment for all."