Hal-Con Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Comic Convention, commonly known as Hal-Con, was founded in the 1970s and revived in the 2010s. It is traditionally an annual weekend event held in Halifax, Nova Scotia in Atlantic Canada during the middle of Fall. Originally showcasing comic books, games, science fiction/fantasy and film/television, and related popular arts, it has grown to encompass the full spectrum of geekdom, including comic books, science fiction, fantasy, gaming, science fantasy, Renaissance, anime, furry, cyber goth, cosplay, and anything else of the fantastical while still having enough appeal for even the most casual fan. The gathering includes entertainment for most tastes from music, stage show, and small social gaming circles, and the chance to rub elbows with the famous and infamous of geek pop-culture. Activities and events Celebrity Q&A sessions Autograph and photo booths Guest lectures Authors readings Anime and video rooms Artist alley Charity auction Specialty vendors Discussion panels Masquerade dance Costume contest Dressing in costume Gaming demonstrations, tournaments and play Community involvement Year round events Hal-Con is active in the HRM community, promoting both the convention and Geek Culture. They hold events throughout the year leading up to the convention. These events include BBQs, dances, movie nights, game days, and they even participate in local parades and zombie walks with the help of fans. Community parades Hal-Con loves to participate in community celebrations - especially parades. Below is a sample list of the parades and awards won in parades around Halifax Regional Municipality. Eastern Passage Summer Carnival Parade – 2012–Present (Award Winner – 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016) Chronicle Herald Parade of Lights – 2012–Present (Award Winner – 2012, 2014, 2015) HRM Pride Parade – 2012–Present (Award Winner – 2016, 2017) Natal Day Parade – 2012–Present (Award Winner – 2013, 2015) St. Patrick's Day Parade – 2013-2015 (Award Winner – 2014, 2015) Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Parade with Eastlink – 2014 Multicultural Festival Parade – 2014 Sackville Patriots Day Parade – 2014 (Award Winner – 2014) Halifax Official Zombie Walk – 2012-2014 Cole Harbour Harvest Festival Parade – 2012, 2013 Spryfield Annual Christmas Parade – 2012, 2013 (Award Winner – 2012, 2013) Hal-Con also hosts and organizes their own Halloween parade (2012–present). Charity Hal-Con is active in charity events. Each year they host a live charity auction at the convention as well as numerous silent auctions with profits going to the IWK Children's Hospital and Kids Help Phone.