The Pacific Northwest’s quirkiest comic and arts convention, Squatchcon, is back for 2025, promising a mix of pop culture, local art and a dash of Sasquatch lore.
Coming to the Vern Burton Community Center April 10 to 13, the four-day event is expected to draw hundreds of fans, cosplayers and artists from across Washington state.
While it may not be your typical Sasquatch convention, Squatchcon is deeply rooted in Olympic Peninsula culture, with its mascot “Darrell,” an arts-loving Sasquatch.
As a comic and arts convention, Squatchcon is also a platform for local artists and students to showcase their talent. The Artist Alley will present more than 50 local artists, makers and comic collectors, with a strong emphasis on Olympic Peninsula and Washington-based creatives. Student vendors are at the heart of the event and Squatchcon has worked hard to ensure young artists are front and center.
“Squatchcon gives students the chance to sell their work, meet mentors and gain experience in a fun, supportive environment,” says Jess Grello, Squatchcon Organizer..
In fact, the student vendor program is one of Squatchcon’s proudest achievements. Since its beginning, the convention has featured free tables for student artists, with mentorship and networking opportunities built into the program. The goal is to show young people growing up in rural communities that they don’t have to leave home to start their careers – particularly creative ones.
While Squatchcon caters to the geek culture crowd with its cosplay contests, gaming events and panel discussions, the Sasquatch theme gives it a Northwest angle. The convention will hold Sasquatch-themed artwork and “believers’ meetups.
“You’re not going to find this combination anywhere else,” Grello says. “We have cosplay contests, gaming tournaments and panels about fan culture, all alongside Sasquatch workshops and Bigfoot-inspired art.”
Kids 12 and under are admitted free with a pass-holding adult, and Thursday, April 10, will serve as a free community preview day.
“We created Squatchcon to give people of all ages something fun to do during the cool misty months,” Grello explains. “It’s a celebration of the art, culture and legends that grow in the Olympic Peninsula.”
Early bird tickets for Squatchcon 2025 are now available, with special pricing until Dec. 25. For more information on tickets, vendors, and programming, visit squatchconpa.com.