The first-ever Geek Expo is to take Cornwall by storm this summer as it lands at Stithians Showground on the 14th and 15th June.
Organised by lifelong geek Mark Martin, the festival promises an action-packed weekend celebrating all things sci-fi, fantasy, comics and gaming.
Martin, mastermind behind the event, spoke with Janice Rose, Community Journalist at CHAOS Radio, about the inspiration behind the Expo.
“Well, I’m a geek – that’s the inspiration,” he explained. “Growing up in the 80s, we had all the greatest cartoons like He-Man and Thundercats, and incredible films like Back to the Future. My passion has grown from that, really.”
Visitors can expect an exciting mix of celebrity guests, cosplayers and interactive experiences, with the event featuring everything from props and fairground rides to Viking and lightsaber battles, archery, axe throwing and much more besides.
Traders will be selling a range of comics, trading cards and geeky merchandise, ensuring attendees can take home a piece of the action. Otherwise, for those who love to dress up, the cosplay scene at Geek Expo will be in full force, with plenty of opportunities to showcase favourite characters.
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, either. On Saturday evening, an after-party will kick off with a geeky quiz, followed by live music from The Beautiful South West and a silent disco.
“Expect plenty of attitude and singing,” Martin joked. “And maybe some sore heads on Sunday.”
This is no ordinary convention where attendees simply watch from the sidelines. Geek Expo 2025 is packed with opportunities to take part.
The art show, now open for submissions, gives artists a chance to display their geek inspired artwork. Themed meetups will bring together fans of steampunk, fantasy creatures, and more.
A particular highlight is the Steampunk Dog Show, taking place on Sunday, which promises plenty of quirky fun – and Janice is already looking for a costume for her dog.
While Martin is usually known for his elaborate cosplay costumes, he won’t be dressing up this time due to the demands of running the event.
“It takes a couple of months to make a costume,” he explained. “I usually start at Christmas and by summer, it’s ready.”
His stunning creations will be on display however, and who knows, we might even squeeze a CHAOS presenter into one of them.
For anyone unsure whether Geek Expo is for them, Martin has some reassuring words: “They’re great fun. You can come by yourself, meet like-minded people and make new friends. I’ve met people at these events that I’ve known for years now. It’s a very friendly, family-oriented environment.”
With an incredible lineup of activities and entertainment, Geek Expo 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable event for geeks of all ages.
Tickets and full event details are available on the official website – www.geekexpo.co.uk – as well as on Facebook and Instagram: @GeekExpo.
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