Key Highlights
- Create Entertainment is hosting a Star Trek convention in Chicago this weekend.
- The event, called ST: CHI: Trek to Chicago, features many well-known Star Trek actors and guest stars.
- Conventions will run on Saturday and Sunday at the Westin O’Hare Hotel with various celebrity appearances, panels, and special events.
- Ticket prices range from $35 for a day pass to $65 for the weekend pass, with additional tiers available for reserved seating and autographs.
Star Trek Conventions in Chicago: A Weekend of Fan Enthusiasm
Create Entertainment is set to host its latest regional Star Trek convention this coming Saturday and Sunday at the Westin O’Hare Hotel in Chicago. Dubbed ST: CHI: Trek to Chicago, the event promises a weekend filled with celebrity appearances, panels, and special events for fans of all ages.
The Celebrity Lineup
The star-studded guest list includes beloved actors from various Star Trek series such as William Shatner, Brent Spiner, Jeri Ryan, Doug Jones, Gates McFadden, Nana Visitor, Tim Russ, Cirroc Lofton, Anthony Rapp, Christina Chong, Gabrielle Ruiz, and Chase Masterson. Additionally, Trek guest stars Todd Stashwick, Jonathan Del Arco, Natalija Noguluich, and Sandy Gimpel will be making appearances.
Panel Discussions and Interactive Events
Attendees can look forward to panel discussions with behind-the-scenes experts, including documentary director David Zappone and Berman-era script coordinator Lolita Fatjo. Science experts and authors will also contribute to the program. The event will offer unique opportunities like group photo ops, themed around popular Star Trek shows such as TNG’s Brent Spiner and Gates McFadden, or Picard’s Jeri Ryan and Gates McFadden. Fans can also interact with celebrities at individual tables for autographs throughout the weekend.
Special Events and Activities
To add to the excitement, special events are scheduled to take place over the two days. These include performances by Tim Russ and his band, an after-party hosted by Bonnie Gordon, a pajama party with Chase Masterson, coffee and croissant breakfast with Gates McFadden (from TNG’s “Attached”), Ethiopian dinner with Cirroc Lofton, and a Chicago pizza lunch with Todd Stashwick. Nana Visitor is hosting a cocktail party in collaboration with her old DS9 friend, Cirroc Lofton, as she shares on social media.
Tickets and Additional Benefits
Tickets for the event are now available starting at $35 for a day pass or $65 for a weekend pass. There are also additional tiers for reserved seating, priority lines for autographs, and other benefits. More information and ticket purchases can be made through Creation Entertainment’s website. Additionally, group rate rooms are available at the hotel through Marriott’s booking platform.
Pre-Event Excitement
Podcaster Ryan T. Husk and Prodigy’s Bonnie Gordon will be co-hosting this weekend event, promising a memorable experience for Star Trek fans. Husk expressed his enthusiasm about the convention: “We are very excited about this Chicago convention as it is unique in a few ways.
We’ve got a ton of cool first-time special events; starting on Friday, Sandy Gimpel will be doing her very first professional photo ops for a convention ever, sixty years after appearing in ‘The Cage’—that’s a historic event!—and it’s technically the first major convention celebrating Star Trek’s 60th year. All in all, in my opinion, this is going to be one of the most memorable and historic conventions ever.”
Star Trek: The Next Generation actress Nana Visitor also took to social media to hype the event, sharing her excitement about hosting a cocktail party with her old friend Cirroc Lofton. Visitors can expect an array of engaging activities, celebrity interactions, and unique experiences that make this convention stand out in the Star Trek fan community.
TrekMovie will be on hand to cover the event live via their social media channels, providing updates from various panels and sharing any fascinating tidbits emerging during the weekend.
Fans can also find more Trek convention news and reports at TrekMovie’s website.
The upcoming event is set to be a significant milestone in Star Trek fandom, celebrating both the 60th anniversary of the franchise and marking Sandy Gimpel’s first professional photo ops after her historic appearance. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for this unique opportunity to experience the magic of Star Trek in person.
