About BlerDCon
What is BlerDCon?
BlerDCon (Black Nerd Convention) is a convention that celebrates black nerd culture while also being inclusive of all backgrounds. The convention features panels, celebrity guests, presentations, workshops, gaming tournaments, cosplay contests, music, and dance. BlerDCon is committed to highlighting and showcasing the rich diversity of the blerd community and other underrepresented communities in geekdom. The convention is held annually and takes place over a weekend at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, VA. Attendees can purchase badges online or on-site, and children aged 10 and under can attend for free with an adult guardian. BlerDCon also hosts the largest food truck rally of any con in the country.
What is a Blerd?
- The term “blerd” is a portmanteau of “black” and “nerd,” and it refers to a person who identifies as both black and interested in nerdy or geeky things. This can include interests in comic books, video games, science fiction, anime, technology, and more. The term is often used as a positive and empowering way for black individuals to express their love for these types of media and to connect with others who share similar interests.
What if I’m not Black? Can I attend?
Absolutely! We strive for inclusiveness and aim to represent intersectional communities, including LGBTQ, AfroLatina, AfroAsian, Veterans, and people with disabilities. Our event is not only fun and unique but also celebrates diversity in a way that sets us apart from others.
Attendee Information
When is BlerDCon?
- Doors open at noon March 7th and runs round-the-clock until 3pm EST March 9th!
What hotels are located in the nearby area?
Tons! Mere feet from the Hyatt entrance are the Courtyard Marriott, Renaissance and Residence Inn. There are others nearby easily located via online map at reasonable prices!
Where can I purchase a badge?
Go Here
Do we need to purchase badges for kids?
All kids age 10 and under can attend BlerDCon for FREE! All kids and children age 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult or parental guardian during the convention.
Do kids over the age of 10 need parental supervision?
It’s ultimately up to your discretion, but as a general rule, if you would feel comfortable letting your child go to the mall or an amusement park without adult supervision, they are likely mature enough to attend BlerDCon on their own. Keep in mind that children of these ages vary in their level of maturity. If minors attend the convention without adult supervision and violate any of our policies or laws, they will be held accountable in the same way as adults.
What food options are available for attendees?
BlerDCon is proud to host the biggest food truck rally of any convention in the country! Indulge in a diverse selection of up to 16 curated food trucks, hailing from all over the DC metro area, and parked right behind the Hyatt. From fusion delights to classic favorites, every dish is crafted with passion and creativity, making for a truly one-of-a-kind culinary experience. And the best part? Some trucks serve up delicious eats late into the night, so you can satisfy your cravings whenever they strike. Don’t miss out on the ultimate foodie adventure at BlerDCon – we guarantee you won’t find better eats anywhere else!
Can you mail my badge to me?
BlerDCon does not mail out badges. When you purchase your badge online, you’ll use the QR code or your ID to retrieve your badge at registration.
How do I pick up my badges for the event?
Registration is across the street at the Courtyard Marriott in the back corner of the lobby level. Bring your ID or QR code if pre-purchased, or go to one of the kiosks to purchase on-site.
Do you have any accommodations for people with disabilities?
Yes. The Hyatt is fully wheelchair accessible, as is the Courtyard Marriott. We also provide for ASL interpretation. Email [email protected] with any questions about your needs.
Is there Wi-Fi at BlerDCon?
Yes. Individuals can purchase Wi-Fi directly through Hyatt from their devices on a daily basis.
How can I get a press badge?
Send your credentials, examples of your work and follower counts to [email protected]
How do I become an exhibitor or an artist at BlerDCon?
Applications can be found here and on announcements pinned to the top of our Facebook and IG accounts!
I’ve a cool idea for a panel, where can I send it or sign up?
Applications can be found here and on announcements pinned to the top of our Facebook and IG accounts!
Can I dress up in cosplay?
Absolutely!!
VIP Badge Benefits
Do the VIP badge benefits apply to more than one person?
No. You will have to purchase additional VIP badges if you need to have anyone join you in the front rows, or at special events. Keep this in mind if you’re chaperoning a minor, or plan to attend with a group.
What are the benefits of the VIP badge?
Start your Blerdcon a whole day early with exclusive Day Zero events starting Thursday at noon! (day panels/workshops, movie screenings, afterparties, celeb meet and greets)
Enjoy early badge pickup with VIP registration Thursday afternoon!
Get first “dibs” on the host hotel room block release!
Top quality VIP bag full of swag!
Exclusive VIP theme shirt!
Early Day One access to vendor hall!
Front row seating at all main stage events, panels and workshops!
Exclusive VIP badge!
*2024 VIPS got to enjoy a FREE movie screening of Wes Armstrong’s short film “Vigilante”, staring Khleo Thomas, with a Q&A moderated by MSNBC’s Jason Johnson, followed by an exclusive meet and greet with the cast!*
Guest Appearances
What days will the guests attend the convention?
BlerDCon guests, with rare exceptions, attend the full con weekend.
Is there an autograph schedule for the guests?
Each guest will have their own schedule that will be part of the larger convention schedule, usually available within the last 3-4 weeks before the convention.
If I bring my own item, will a guest autograph it?
Yes!
Will guests take a selfie with me at their table?
Yes!
Will there be opportunities to take any photos or videos with the guests?
All photo ops will be digital and taken at the guest table. Autographs, video/audio recordings as well.
What are the prices for autographs and photos?
This will vary with each guest. Pricing can be found on the schedule and the guest announcement.
Harassment Policy
Do you have a harassment policy?
BlerDCon is committed to fostering an atmosphere where fans can count on a safe, inclusive, and rewarding experience. BlerDCon is meant to be an inclusive space for fans, with a zero-tolerance policy against harassment, groping, stalking, and inappropriate photography.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to, verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion; deliberate intimidation; stalking; following; harassing photography or recording; sustained disruption of talks or other events; inappropriate physical contact; and unwelcome sexual attention. Harassment of any kind is unwelcome at BlerDCon and will not be tolerated. Violation of this policy will result in removal from the event. Should you feel like you are being harassed, please find the nearest staff member so that a report can be made.
