Sandemonium highlights growing local fandom scene

Sandemonium, the first of two planned fandom conventions for 2026, drew hundreds of attendees to the Sandpoint Library on Saturday. The event celebrated 'all things nerdy,' featuring cosplay contests, tabletop gaming, video games, and panels across genres like anime, science fiction, fantasy, and esports. Holly Lopes, a lifelong Star Trek fan, attended the event, often cosplaying as K’Ehleyr, a half-human, half-Klingon character. She shared that she creates custom costumes, including an ambassadorial suit and full Klingon armor, after discovering the comfort of the Klingon headpiece at a previous convention. Lopes participates in three to six cosplay events annually, emphasizing the community’s camaraderie. She credits a professional cosplayer friend and the Facebook Klingon community for helping her craft costumes, noting that cosplay is accessible to all ages and fandoms, from Star Wars to Marvel. Colin Coalson attended with fellow Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts, praising Sandemonium for consolidating diverse interests in one location. He encouraged more people to join 7Bcon, the nonprofit organizing the event, which he believes remains underrecognized despite Sandpoint’s strong nerd culture following. The convention’s second event is planned for later this year, aiming to further grow the local fandom scene by providing an inclusive space for shared interests.