Laois Comic Con to be "the biggest yet"

Celtic Con is once again returning to the Dunamaise Art Centre in Portlaoise, and is set to be bigger than ever.

The convention is completely free to attend, and is suitable for all ages. It is running as part of the Old Fort Quarter Festival.

Organisers have said that sadly, this may be the last year the event takes place in Portlaoise, so this year will be “bigger and better than ever” in a bid to save the Con.

“Alongside our trusty mascot, Celtic Connor, we’re trying to save our convention! Our Portlaoise event has been running since 2017 having been first set up by Martin Moore of Celtic Comics (Sadly now closed) in Portlaoise,” said organisers.

The group have spoken on the difficulties in being heard in an area that is ‘predominantly interested in sports’.

“At Celtic Con, we feature a range of different talents. Talents that can go overlooked, especially in a smaller area like the Midlands,” they said.

“Celtic Con is THE convention of the Midlands. We’re based in an area that is predominantly interested in sports, but we want to make our voice heard. Celtic Con is all about bringing together people from all walks of life. Be it people who just want to have a wander, artists, comic lovers, gamers, cosplayers and more!”.

This year, the talent featured are both local and international.

Special guests include Jmac Makeup (finalist, Glow Up Series 2),Brick Con, Colm Griffin (Image, IDW, Titan Comics, Source Point Press), Special Cosplay Guests REEL ICONS Ireland, 501 Ireland Garrison (The StarWars guys) and The Guild of Nerds.

“We showcase some of Ireland’s finest comic and children’s books creators, digital and traditional artists, crafters, and more! Our talents this year are both local and international, and we are very excited to have such a range,” Celtic Con said.

“All are worth coming along to see, and purchasing from if you can. Every little helps, and everyone is truly grateful for the support!”.

Celtic Con Old Fort Quarter Festival.

Celtic Con has always had a gaming zone, but this year a partnership with Level Up Gaming has included a gaming van at the event. The gaming van includes 10 4K resolution TVs, and a variety of of consoles such as PS5’s, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switches. There will also be exhibitors and market stalls at the event.

The group aim to create a safe and welcome environment for all, with particular emphasis on support for the LGBTQ+ community, and for those on the spectrum.

“Everyone has a place and everyone is welcome in our space. We pride ourselves on creating a safe space, filled with love, support and accessibility,” they said. “We believe in everyone having a voice and a space. We love seeing our community shine.”

Celtic Con will take place on June 29 from 12pm to 5pm at the Dunamaise Arts Centre. Entry is free, with the Con raising money in a Charity Auction for the Irish Cancer Society.