FAQ

There is an often-seen phenomena on the Internet that consists of a list of frequently asked questions. These usually consist of questions that new people tend to ask established communities. There is a less-often seen phenomena on the Internet that consists of a list of infrequently asked questions. These are often humorous, and sometimes misleading. Well, we here at the Des Moines Science Fiction & Fantasy Society have decided to combine the two. What follows is a list of questions that are not often asked, but that we feel should be. Please browse the questions (and answers) listed here. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask us!

Infrequently Asked Questions

DemiCon is going virtual, but I purchased a membership, what do i do now?

For our attendees, we will transfer all convention memberships to DemiCon 33 where we will return with a bigger and better convention than ever before. If you would like a refund instead, please use the below form and we will refund the cost of your convention membership.

All conventions have upfront costs associated with them. Please also consider using the below form to convert your membership into a one-time donation instead of transferring it to DemiCon 33. 

Refund Request Form

DemiCon is virtual , what platforms will be using?

DemiCon uses a variety of platforms to host event and activities over the weekend.  Below are the platforms we will be using for DemiCon 32:

What time does the convention start?

Registration opens at 2:00 PM (14:00) on Friday April 30, 2021. The Opening Ceremonies start at 7:00 PM (19:00) on Friday, but we will have various activities starting around 2:00 PM (14:00), so show up early for maximum fun.

Note: Until the schedule for DemiCon 32 has been finalized there is a small chance these times could change.

What is the average attendance to DemiCon?

DemiCon enjoys an average attendance of around 600 people.  Our members (attendees) are all ages from all over the United States.

What is “Opening Ceremonies”?

Opening Ceremonies is the official kick-off for the convention. The Guests of Honor will be introduced, along with other attending guests and the convention steering committee (ConCom). This is followed by a performance by the Trans-Iowa Canal Company West™, an amateur theater troupe specializing in science fiction oriented comedy.

Do I have to wear a costume? Can I wear one anyway?

You do not have to wear a costume to enjoy DemiCon. Just show up as yourself and join the fun. Some people choose to wear costumes, and they will run the range from festive party clothing to the bug-eyed monster of the week. You may see Klingons, vampires, pirates, superheroes, steampunk costumes, and whatever else our creative attendees can imagine.

Are there costume contests?

Yes! There are two costume contests at DemiCon — the Hall Costume contest on Friday night, and the Masquerade & Cosplay on Saturday night. Please review the rules for these events.

Are there activities for all ages?

Most of the activities and events at DemiCon are suitable for all ages. Some special activities will be scheduled for children and also for the youth and teen segments of the population. A separate teen-oriented area will be set aside for both organized and self-directed activities. Activities for specific age groups will be labeled on the event schedule.

What about “adult” themed events?

DemiCon offers a wide range of programming choices. If content of a program or event is intended for “mature audiences only,” it will be clearly labeled.

What happens at DemiCon?

DemiCon has many activities both planned and unplanned. The planned activities tend to involve entertainment, discussions, educational events, and workshops. The entertainment ranges from video to live theater to live musical performance. The discussions range from old and new issues in literature to what to expect from the new television seasons. The educational events involve panels on science, science fiction, fantasy, literacy, writing, the arts and so much more.  Workshop topics vary year to year and can cover projects involving writing, costuming, gaming, theater, music, programming, and art. The unplanned activities vary year to year, but generally seem to involve a lot of talking to old friends, making new friends, playing games, and exploring new places to eat lunch, supper, dinner, late dinner, later dinner, latest dinner, and desert. For specific information on planned events, please refer to our Programming page. For more information on how to be actively involved at DemiCon, see our Get Involved page.

Hey, I want to advertise in your program book! How much does it cost?

The program book’s advertising rates are:

Inside Front Cover (live area 5″ x 8″):  $75
Full Page (live area 5″ x 8″):  $60
Half Page (live area 5″ x 3 7/8″):  $35
Quarter Page (live area 2 3/8″ x 3 7/8″):  $20

Contact publications@demicon.org to submit an ad to us. The deadline (subject to change) to have an ad placed with us is March 15, 2021.

Hey, I want to advertise on the DemiCon Channel! How much does that cost?

The Demicon Channel is set of video programming items shown on a hotel channel during the run of the DemiCon convention and presents live main stage Con events, past convention events including Trans-Iowa Canal Company Shows, DemiCon Lite Music Shows; and Original programming including a cartoon show and transitional comedy bits. All programming items are family-friendly but some late night programming items do move into the PG-13 area.

Between channel items, the DemiCon Channel shows advertising mainly for vendors in the DC Dealer’s Room. Vendors can send the Channel Master (demiconchannel@demicon.org) up to two or three standard images or PowerPoint slides that can be used in advertising segments. Limited standard full video advertising spots are also available for a minimal fee- primarily intended for Con Vendors or DMSFFS-related businesses. Contact the Channel Master for additional advertising information.