Sunday December 8, 2024 | LANGFORD, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
In a significant recognition of the role of cosplay in the cultural lifestyle of youth, Sooke School District SD62 has accepted free tickets from Island FanCon for the 2025 spring break event.
Cosplay is an activity that allows students to express themselves, learn creative skills, and socialize with their peers in fun expressive ways.
Cosplay enthusiastically encourages and supports inclusion, something that the education system says they hope to foster in their schools. In that way, the cosplay experience is part of supporting youth mental wellness.
Tickets through SD62:
The 100 free tickets for students aged 13 and older have been provided by Island FanCon in the hope that students will be able to attend the unique pop culture event in Langford at the tail end of 2025 spring break, March 28 to 30.
“This is a premier pop culture and arts convention in the Capital region,” says Lonnie Eckardt, founding partner, Island FanCon.
The event will be held over three days at the Langford Event Centre (City Centre Park), featuring an exciting lineup of activities and educational opportunities.
Popular arts and culture mission:
This initiative aligns with Island FanCon’s mission to make popular arts and culture accessible to all.
“By working with local schools, the event aims to inspire students who may face financial barriers, providing them with a space to engage with creative professionals and explore careers in the creative and media industries,” says Eckardt.
“We’re excited to partner with School District 62 to welcome students to Island FanCon 2025,” said Eckardt.
“This initiative is about more than fun—it’s about inspiring the next generation of creators and innovators through hands-on workshops, panels, and interactions with industry professionals.”
Highlights of the 2025 event:
- Celebrity interviews and photo opportunities
- Cosplay events and competitions
- Vendor and artist showcases
- Interactive workshops on careers in film, art, and media
- Main stage performances (and performance opportunities)
Get Involved:
Island FanCon encourages teachers, administrators, and representatives from other school districts or schools to reach out directly with inquiries about similar opportunities for their students.
Details on how SD62 students can access free tickets will be provided through their schools, along with promotional posters distributed by the district.
This partnership underscores Island FanCon’s commitment to fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment, offering students an unforgettable experience while connecting them to potential career paths in the arts.
Economic impact:
The cosplay community is also an economic driver for the local economy.
The 2024 Island FanCon event added $750,000 to the local economy.
Local businesses are encouraged to become sponsors or partners with the Island FanCon 2025 event.
Island Social Trends is a 2025 Island FanCon event partner.
===== RELATED:
- Island Fancon returns to Langford for second year (November 9, 2024)
- Inaugural Island FanCon contributes $750K to local economy (May 17, 2024)
- NEWS SECTIONS: ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | AGE & GENERATIONS | SD62