Science fiction, fantasy, and horror fans, mark the calendar. The International Association for the Fantastic in the Arts (IAFA) is gearing up for its 46th annual gathering in Orlando, Florida, and it promises to be a hauntingly good time. Held from March 19-22, 2025, at the Orlando Airport Marriott Lakeside, this year’s event dives deep into the realm of Night Terrors, exploring fear from every possible angle—both internal and external.
IAFA is more than just a convention. It is an intellectual and creative hub that brings together scholars, writers, and publishers to celebrate and analyze the fantastic in literature, film, and other media. This unique blend of academia and fandom creates an atmosphere unlike any other, offering thought-provoking panels, discussions, and networking opportunities that dive into the depths of speculative fiction.
Silvia Moreno-Garcia, author of Mexican Gothic and The Daughter of Doctor Moreau, will serve as Guest of Honor, bringing her expertise in horror and dark fantasy to the stage. Sarah Juliet Lauro, a scholar known for her work on zombie studies and gothic literature, will take the role of Guest Scholar, adding depth to the academic conversation.
The Night Terrors theme invites discussion on the many faces of fear. Whether it’s the classic monsters lurking in the dark, the horror of new technology, or the way fear shapes culture, this year’s conference is set to explore it all. The unknown is unsettling, but storytelling has always given people a way to confront and process their deepest anxieties. This year’s event will examine that idea from every angle, whether through traditional horror elements like ghosts and werewolves or psychological nightmares that come from within.
For anyone drawn to the shadows of storytelling, IAFA 2025 is shaping up to be a must-attend event. Expect insightful presentations, fascinating panels, and discussions that will leave a lasting impact long after the conference ends. Orlando will be the place where fear meets fascination, and where the fantastic takes center stage. Prepare yourself because it’s gonna be “Stellar”!
Johnny Stellar
I spend my days buried in comic books, my nights lost in music, and somewhere in between, I find time to write about both.
