This is a list of entertainment being featured for the 2024 Dark Art and Oddities Con! Everything in this section is included with your General Admission ticket! Our entertainment room is located on the 3rd floor of the castle and seating is first come, first serve.
To see our events schedule, CLICK HERE.
Indie Horror Film Festival
The 2024 Indie Horror Film Festival will take place on Sunday, November 17th at 2:30PM and is included in the convention general admission for FREE!
www.IndieHorrorFest.com
Indie Horror Film Festival
Filmmaker Social Hour
Filmmakers, fellow artists and fans, please join us Sunday, November 17th at 1PM for the Filmmaker Social Hour prior to the start of the Indie Horror Film Festival! A great opportunity to network with fellow creatives, share stories and ideas. This social hour is included with your general admission pass!
Nosferatu
With Live Organ Accompaniment
by Jay Warren!
Jay Warren will be gracing us with his mesmerizing live organ accompaniment to the 1922 silent film classic, Nosferatu! This exclusive performance promises to be a highlight of the convention, blending the eerie ambiance of silent cinema with Warren’s haunting musical compositions.
Saturday, November 16th at 5:30PM
Serial Killer Culture
Psychos, Murder, and Filmmaking
A Lecture by John Borowski
Join award-winning filmmaker and author John Borowski for an immersive lecture that dives into the twisted world of “Serial Killer Culture: Psychos, Murder, and Filmmaking!”
Get ready for a gripping multimedia experience where Borowski shares his bizarre encounters with notorious figures like John Wayne Gacy, H.H. Holmes, and Albert Fish. Discover the chilling history behind some of the world’s most infamous killers, and learn what sparked Borowski’s fascination with bringing their stories to the screen. Learn more about Borowski at: www.JohnBorowski.com
Don’t miss this unique presentation at the 2024 Dark Art and Oddities Con, happening on Saturday, November 16th, at 4 pm in the 3rd Floor Entertainment Space.
Whispers in the Dark
A Dark Literature Reading Series
Step into the eerie ambiance of classic literature brought to life at Dark Art and Oddities Con, hosted by actor, writer, and YouTuber Colin Gorman. As our literary guide, Colin will lead you through spine-chilling and thought-provoking works performed by a talented group of actors, each bringing these dark tales and poems to life.
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
Actress Nina Trader brings to life the haunting tale of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. This story explores the consequences of scientific ambition and the tragedy of a creature longing for acceptance.
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
Actor Joe DeBartolo takes you on a journey into the mind of a tormented narrator. This suspenseful tale of obsession and guilt unfolds in a chilling confession of murder.
“The Call of Cthulhu” by H.P. Lovecraft
Actress Heather Harlow guides you through Lovecraft’s cosmic horror classic, where an ancient and malevolent entity lies in wait beneath the sea, threatening the sanity of all who encounter it.
“Hope is the thing with feathers” by Emily Dickinson
Actress Lillian Lamour delivers this poignant and inspiring poem, reflecting on the enduring nature of hope that resides in the soul, offering light in even the darkest moments.
‘Dear Boss’ letter by Jack the Ripper
Actor Justin Bower reads this infamous letter attributed to the notorious serial killer. It provides a chilling glimpse into the mind of a figure who haunted London’s streets, leaving behind a legacy of terror and mystery.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the power of dark storytelling, where literature’s most haunting words echo through time.
Readings performed Sunday, Nov. 17th at 11:30AM
Christmas Revenge
Special Screening with Filmmakers!
Cheevies Film Productions brings you Christmas Revenge which is written by Nina Trader and Derek Braasch. It stars A.J. Laird, Justin Bower and Nina Trader. This is part of Phil Herman’s “I Slay on Christmas” horror anthology. It’s Christmas and Curtis is pissed. He has something he needs to get off his chest and Santa is in for a bloody treat.
Saturday, November 16th @ 2:30PM
12m Running Time
Followed by Q&A with Filmmaker
The Greenies
Special Screening with Filmmakers!
Breaking Fate Entertainment brings you this special screening with Q&A of their creature short film “The Greenies” from Director Willy Adkins!
When two bored, adventure-seeking teens head into the woods to seek out a local legend known as the Greenies, they discover the truth is far more terrifying than the myth.
Saturday, November 16th @ 3PM
10m Running Time
Followed by Q&A with Filmmaker
GHOSTS ON VIDEO
The Ghost Research Societies Best Evidence with Dale Kaczmarek
Join Dale Kaczmarek of the Ghost Research Society as he presents some of their most compelling video evidence of ghostly encounters. Dive into chilling footage and firsthand accounts as Dale shares highlights from over 40 years in paranormal investigation. Perfect for anyone fascinated by the unexplained!
Sunday, November 17th @ 11:30AM
SHE IS EVIL!
The Female Killer with Judith Yates!
Join Judith A. Yates, criminologist, award-winning author, and expert in law enforcement, for a deep dive into the chilling world of Female Killers. With over 35 years of experience in criminology, Judith explores what drives women to kill, sharing insights from her research and experience. Known for her work as a victim’s advocate and cold case investigator, Judith has appeared across U.S. media as a trusted commentator on crime and justice.
Saturday, November 16th @ 1PM
Add On Workshops
Add on workshops are limited to between 12 and 14 add on ticket holders. These workshops must be purchased as an add on to the general admission ticket(s). You can register for these via our online ticket for CLICK HERE. Any remaining workshop space available after Nov. 14th, will be available for purchase at the door. If you have any questions or concerns, please CONTACT US.
Ghost Hunting
Techniques Workshop
Learn the Art of Paranormal Investigation
with Dale Kaczmarek
Discover expert ghost-hunting techniques with Dale Kaczmarek from the Ghost Research Society! With over 40 years of experience, Dale will guide you through a range of investigative methods, sharing practical tips and tools of the trade. Gain hands-on insights into effective ghost hunting and learn from a seasoned investigator in the field of paranormal research! Perfect for individuals looking to get started or enthusiasts eager to deepen their skills.
$5/Person – Workshop Limited to 12 Ticket Holders
Get Your Add On Ticket: (CLICK HERE)
Sunday, Nov. 17th at 4PM
Anti-Anxiety
Satchel Workshop
Learn by creating your own Satchel!
with Serenity Rayne
Join Serenity Rayne in creating a personalized Anti-Anxiety Satchel designed to help ease stress and promote calm. In this workshop, you’ll learn about the properties of each ingredient and how to combine them for grounding and relaxation. All materials and instructions are provided, and you’ll take home your own handcrafted satchel for peace and balance. Perfect for those seeking a mindful addition to their self-care routine!
$20/Person – Workshop Limited to 12 Ticket Holders
Get Your Add On Ticket: CLICK HERE
Sunday, Nov. 17th at 11:30AM
Insect Pinning Workshop
Learn to pin and frame an insect!
with AJ’s Arthropods and Bioactive Supplies
Join AJ’s Arthropods and Bioactive Supplies to learn the art of insect pinning! Choose from a selection of fascinating insects, then follow guided instruction to pin and frame your specimen. With all materials provided, you’ll leave with a beautifully preserved, framed insect to display in your collection. Perfect for nature lovers and curious collectors alike!
$30/Person – Workshop Limited to 12 Ticket Holders
Get Your Add On Ticket: CLICK HERE
Sunday, Nov. 17th at 2:30PM
Paranormal 101
Methods and Results
A Workshop About Paranormal Investigation
with US Paranormal Research (USPR)
Explore the fundamentals of ghost hunting with US Paranormal Research (USPR)! In this workshop, you’ll learn proven methods for investigating paranormal activity, including hands-on ghost-hunting techniques. Plus, get an exclusive look at real evidence collected by USPR. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned paranormal enthusiasts!
$5/Person – Workshop Limited to 12 Ticket Holders
Get Your Add On Ticket: CLICK HERE
Saturday, Nov. 16th at 2:30AM
Witches
Protection Bottle
Workshop
Learn by creating your own Protection Bottle
with Serenity Rayne
Join Serenity Rayne in crafting your own Protection Bottle! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create a personal protection satchel using mystical ingredients and traditional techniques. All materials and guided instruction are included, allowing you to craft a unique charm to take home. Perfect for those looking to add a protective touch to their spiritual practice!
$20/Person – Workshop Limited to 12 Ticket Holders
Get Your Add On Ticket: CLICK HERE
Saturday, Nov. 16th at 4PM
Official After Hours
MACABRE MINDS
The Ultimate Dark Trivia Challenge
Join us for the official After Hours event on Saturday, November 16th at Fatty’s Pub & Grille in Dekalb! Hosted by the talented Heather Harlow, this night promises dark and thrilling trivia fun, perfect for horror fans and trivia buffs alike!
Screams start at 8 PM! Bring your A-game, as there will be prizes up for grabs! Plus, enjoy Fatty’s delicious food and drinks, available for purchase.
Location:
Fatty’s Pub & Grille
1312 W Lincoln Hwy.
Dekalb, IL 60115
No cover charge to join the Macabre Minds fun—just show up ready to test your knowledge of the eerie and the strange!
Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow dark minds and kick back with great eats, drinks, and trivia! See you there!