Biographical Note

Martin M. (Mike) Horvat is a printer and collector in Stayton, Oregon. For many years, his collecting focused on general circulation science fiction magazines and fanzines. Horvat founded the American Private Press Association and, during the 1970s and 1980s, published South of the Moon, a catalog of publications of amateur press associations. Horvat was a significant and prolific figure in the worlds of science fiction and other genre fandoms, and assembled over the years a great deal of material relating to science fiction conventions.

Historical Note

Conventions have been a integral part of science fiction fandom almost since its inception as an organized activity. They served (and continue to serve today) as opportunities for like-minded genre enthusiasts to gather socially, meet and listen to professional SF authors, actors, artists and other personalities, and engage in a number of social rituals and activities peculiar to fans. Convention activities might include, but are not limited to: art shows, book and memorabilia dealers' rooms, filksinging, award ceremonies, notable speakers/Guests of Honor, costume parties, and discussion panels.

Conventions are often denoted by a specific name, often based on the city in which the convention is being held.

Science fiction conventions vary in their scope. The most famous, and venerable, type of convention is the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon), a global gathering of fans. The first Worldcon was held in 1939 in New York City; since then one has been held every year (with the exception of the World War II years 1942-1945). Worldcons are generally held in the United States, but, as the name suggests, have been held in other countries as well. The Worldcon is a key event in science fiction because it is there that each year the Hugo Awards are given out for the best science fiction novels, stories and other achievements for the previous year.

However, most genre conventions are more limited in geographic scope. There are national conventions, regional conventions, conventions for a particular city or state, and smaller events as well. Conventions can be devoted to a large, general cultural topic (such as the genre of science fiction, fantasy, or horror, for example), or more focused (such as comic books, Star Trek, Star Wars, or animation).