By MJ Wilke

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There is no better way to kick off a new year and a new timey-whimey, Doctor Who convention calendar than with a trip to CONsole Room. This convention is like an all-ages, nerd day-camp with creative and crafty workshops and programming (#WhoItYourself). The CONsole Room has decades of celebrating the fandom and creative aspects. Whether you drive across town each day or come in from across the country, you’ll want to prepare and pack based on the activities you want to participate in.

 

Plan.

The programming at CONsole Room is predominately activity based, some of which are a separate fee. Check out all the activities on the schedule and plan your weekend ahead so you can take advantage of all the opportunities. These are just a few highlighted activities:

 

Join Us. Come Explore the Nerdy Universe, we’ll be your guide. Wayward Nerd is presenting a series of discussion panels on all things travel - nerdy and otherwise. We’ll help you plan the Ultimate Nerd Vacation, talk tips on getting more from your comic-con experiences and answer all your travel related questions.

 

#WhoItYourself Sessions. Fandom crafting programming that includes painting classes, terrarium building, improv games, knitting and more. Some sessions require an additional fee. Note – you may get dirty, pack accordingly.

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Slytherpuff Wizard Rock Concert. During the Costume Showcase on Saturday night, Slytherpuff, a musical comedy duo, will perform. Remember to pack your Harry Potter wand, there may be a call for Wands Up!

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Pack.​​

• Extra shirt for painting or planting

• Sonic screwdriver

• Harry Potter wand

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Watch/Read/Listen.

Whether you plan to watch/read/listen as you pack, while traveling or at the con, it can enhance the immersive feel of CONsole Room. Here are some suggestions based on this year’s guests.

 

Watch.

Empress of Mars from the Doctor Who new era with CONsole room guest Richard Ashton. Pre-watching before the con, adds to the enjoyment of the live commentary session during the convention.

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Read.

Behind the Sofa: Celebrity Memories of Doctor Who - an ebook compilation benefiting Alzheimer's Research, guest John Leeson is a contributor. 

 

Listen.

Doctor Who – The 50th Anniversary Collection original soundtracks and Big Finish Audio plays.

 

 

Take a Nerdy Side Trip.

Plan some extra time before or after the convention to add even more British feeling to the con and explore a bit of the Twin Cities. For more information on these and other geekie hot spots in Minnesota, check out our Nerdy Places.

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Tardis Little Library – part of the Little Free Library program, it’s located near the convention and offers great photo opportunities.

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Brit’s Pub – a taste of Britain in Minnesota, also for SuperWhoLock fans, this is where Jared and Jensen played Bocce late one night.

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Source Comic and Games – great place to pick up Doctor Who comics and role-playing games.        

 

DreamHaven Books, Comics and Art – the place to find all types of Neil Gaiman writings.

 

Red Balloon Bookshop – although there is not a “Captain Jack Slept Here” sign, John Barrowman has done book signings at this shop.

                       

For more about CONsole Room and galleries of past years, check out our Comic-Con Travel Page.

 

Is your sonic screwdriver packed? Allons-y, we’ll see you there.