Arisia
| Convention | |
|---|---|
| Name: | Arisia |
| Dates: | 1989- |
| Frequency: | annual |
| Location: | Boston, Massachusetts, United States |
| Type: | |
| Focus: | science fiction and fantasy |
| Organization: | Arisia Inc. |
| Founder: | |
| Founding Date: | |
| URL: | http://corp.arisia.org/ |
| Click here for related articles on Fanlore. | |
A convention for science fiction and fantasy fans, held annually in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Arisia typically takes place in January during Martin Luther King weekend.
Arisia has historically focused on fans and fandom. It's run by and for fans, with the convention itself organized exclusively by volunteers. Programming includes a Masquerade costume contest, dances, panels, gaming and LARPs, filk, and anime and film showings.
Guests of Honor have included John Scalzi, Michael Whelan, and Phil Foglio.
History
Arisia was founded in 1990 following fan dissatisfaction with changes in Boskone's venue and programming. Arisia's name reflects this history; in the Lensman series by E.E. Doc Smith, Arisia is the nation of 'good' protagonists opposing the evil empire of Boskone.
Controversies
In 2018, Arisia was criticized for mishandling harassment complaints against senior staff members, including its president, Noel Rosenberg. See Crystal Huff's open letter, Maura Taylor's #MeToo post, and Jim Hines' summary.