Trekkies unite—the Star Trek Convention comes to South Jersey
Beginning today, Friday, April 25, Star Trek fans and former cast members will make the Crown Plaza Hotel in Cherry Hill, NJ their home for the yearly Star Trek Convention. The three-day convention, running through this Sunday, April 27 will feature vendors selling themed memorabilia, photo ops with visiting cast and crew members, talks and presentations—ranging from a makeup demo to a Klingon culture exhibition—and even a costume party.
Beginning today, Friday, April 25, Star Trek fans and former cast members will make the Crown Plaza Hotel in Cherry Hill, NJ their home for the yearly Star Trek Convention. The three-day convention, running through this Sunday, April 27 will feature vendors selling themed memorabilia, photo ops with visiting cast and crew members, talks and presentations—ranging from a makeup demo to a Klingon culture exhibition—and even a costume party.
Friday's events include Star Trek expert Richard Arnold giving a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the original pilot at 4:10 p.m. and autographs with Terry Farrell (Dax of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) and Suzie Plakson (K'Ehleyr on Star Trek: The Next Generation's Reunion) at 7:15 p.m.
At 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, pick up the rare items you wish you'd always owned as Star Trek collectables will be auctioned off. From there, tote your new prized possessions to see Kate Mulgrew (Captain Janeway of Star Trek: Voyager and Red in Netflix's Orange is the New Black) speak at 3:20 p.m. about balancing having a family and an acting career. Following her speech, you can document the moment with a picture (or selfie if you'd prefer) at her photo session. Then, put on your best Star Trek costume for the 4:45 p.m. costume contest. Bring your A-game, as the most well-dressed Trekkie will walk away with a prize.
Think you know everything about Star Trek? Then be sure to attend the 12:55 p.m. "Stump the Experts" trivia session on Sunday. As an added incentive, prizes will be given away to the superfans who know the most. Uhura—better known as Nichelle Nichols—will speak about her experience on the original incarnation. For those unable to nab a photo with Mulgrew the day prior—or even if you did—Nichols will hang around after her talk for another photo opportunity.
Throughout the course of the convention, fan-made music videos honoring the legacy of the show will be screened for your viewing pleasure.
If you're ready to make the trek for this event, get moving now—tickets are only available at the door. For the full event lineup and to see what other notable Star Trek alums will be in attendance, check out the convention's website.