LOSCON is Los Angeles’ longest running Science Fiction & Fantasy Convention, held Thanksgiving weekend by the Los Angeles Science Fantasy Society (LASFS).

Like all organized SF fandom conventions, Loscon is run by volunteers. Amateurs and professionals join as panelists (and a number of rooms host competing panels). There’s open discussion plus snacks in the con suite, a dealers room, an art show, nighttime parties in hotel rooms, dances, singing, gaming, and other activities.

Think of a fan-run convention as a family reunion, except that the attendees are related by common interests instead of by genetic ties.

Each year’s Loscon has its own name and theme, selected by the con chair, who is one of a number of candidates approved by the LASFS Board of Directors and then chosen by the vote of attendees at a Club meeting.