SpringCon Comic Book Celebration

Geek culture is hot -- and helping to make that case is the Midwest Comic Book Association's 24th annual SpringCon. This year's bigger-than-ever convention features more than 200 guest comic book writers and artists ranging from legends (such as Marvel artist Allen Bellman) to indies. Fanboys/gals can enjoy an expansive dealer marketplace, a comic book art show, autographs from creators and a charity art auction on Sunday. The sprawling 80,000-square-foot grandstand will also see costume contests, more than 500 prizes and early-bird grab bags. -Jahna Peloquin

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Thursday 5/24: RetroRama

The arc of history is long, but it bends toward looking fabulous! The Minnesota Historical Society's annual RetroRama bash gets political this year with history-inspired fashions (suffragettes, Prohibition, '60s civil rights, etc.). The roster of local designer talent includes Emma Berg, Max Lohrbach, Samantha Rei and "Project Runway" alums Christopher Straub and Danielle Everine. Models from Lili's Burlesque will strut while DJ Jake Rudh spins. There'll also be Blingo, craft cocktails and vintage boutiques on hand, along with tunes from jazz sextet the Southside Aces. Head over to Amsterdam Bar & Hall for an after-party featuring food/drink specials and rockabilly act the Bad Companions. -Jay Boller

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