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Sessions & Speakers

Explore CulpeperCon's exciting lineup of events.

Register for our Cosplay Contest

Want to participate in our cosplay contest? Click below to register for the event!

Participants must register prior to participating!

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•2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER • KEYNOTE SPEAKER 2026•
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

John Gallagher

John Gallagher is the award‑winning artist and writer behind the Max Meow: Cat Crusader series, published by Random House. He serves as art director for Ranger Rick magazine at the National Wildlife Federation and is co‑founder of Kids Love Comics, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy through graphic storytelling. An enthusiastic advocate for reading, John learned to read via comics and now leads workshops teaching children how to create their own.

The first 30 children IN ATTENDANCE* will receive a copy of Max Meow 6: When Pancakes Go Bad (Really Bad!)

Children under 17 must be present at the Keynote Presentation and accompanied by their grownup to receive the book. Books will not be reserved or held for children who are not in attendance. Limit one book per child. Available while supplies last. Books will be distributed during this session only.

•2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER • KEYNOTE SPEAKER 2026•
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Sessions & Speakers

ALL FREE ALL DAY - MARCH 28 STARTING AT 10:00 a.m.

More sessions coming soon! (Last updated 2/23/2026)

Zoosians Board Game Demo

What goes into board-game development? Listen to how a board-game was developed right here in Culpeper County! Afterwards, try out the game!

Presented by Cam Anderson of Zoosians

3D Model

LEGO® bricks free-play

Presented by Culpeper County Library

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Chainmail Workshop

Have you ever wondered what is involved in making chainmail and scale mail for Cosplay or Live-Action Role Playing (LARPing)? Join Janna Marks of Mad Marks Designs as she demonstrates the basics of crafting chainmail and scale mail and talks about the history of this armor and best way to use these styles in creating an outfit. After the demo, participants can enjoy a quick workshop to craft a simple keychain using linear‑scale construction for an easy, fun way to try the method firsthand.

Presented by Janna Marks of Mad Marks Designs

Light Blue Yarn

Crochet STAR WARS Stress Balls*

Crochet your very own stress balls in the shape of the STAR WARS Death Star. *Crochet experience required. Instructors will not teach. Please visit the Culpeper County Library's calendar of events for knit/crochet classes.

Presented by Culpeper County Library, Sponsored by Atlantic RV

Joe Carabeo presents - How You Don’t Need Hollywood…But...

Filmmaking is a wonderful world, but is the reality of being a filmmaker right for you? Join award winning Northern Virginia based Director, Producer, Cinematographer ( Best In Show, DMV Best Narrative short, Local Hero Award, Best Local Film, Best Art House Film, Best Score, Best Cinematography, Addy’s and Emmy’s ) Joe Carabeo as he shares a rare glimpse into his evolving process as a professional creative, while discussing the joys and hardships he endured in the evolution of being part of modern cinema making through his 20 years as a independent filmmaker/ creator.

Presented by Joe Carabeo of Astray Productions

Topic TBD

Presented by Josh Burkey of Victims & Villains

Colorful Rubber Bands

Fandom Bracelets

Bracelet and Keychain superhero bead craft available all day on Saturday, March 28 in the Youth Services Department.

Presented by Culpeper County Library Sponsored by Rozwaduckie Design, LLC

Fine Toon Your Life

Welcome back CulpeperCon 3rd Edition Keynote Speaker, Carolyn Belefski!

In this workshop, cartoonist Carolyn Belefski will teach how to turn humor of your everyday life into clever, relatable comic strips -- because if it’s going to happen to you, it might as well be funny.

Presented by Carolyn Belefski

EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, March 27, 2026

Saturday, March 28, 2026

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Cosplay only)

10:00 am – 5:00 pm

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