Prince George residents are going to wait a little bit longer before potentially seeing some of the biggest names in entertainment and pop culture.
Northern FanCon announced on social media this morning (Feb. 25), due to COVID-19 and current public health orders in B.C., that Sept. 24-26, 2021, are the new tentative dates to possibly bring in celebrities to the CN and Kin Centres, but only if deemed safe to do so.
The latest rescheduling was set for May, so this marks the fourth time organizers were forced to move the sixth annual three-day event during the pandemic when it reached the province in January 2020.
The new September dates are around the same time last year it was originally rescheduled to take place, Sept. 25-27, 2020.
It also followed an intense and successful crowdfunding campaign in late 2019 in which the community brought in $100,000 to ensure another Northern FanCon in the city.
“Northern FanCon exists because of amazing supporters like YOU!,” a social media post reads.
“We're so thankful that many people have stood by us, as we've all experienced the turmoil that a global pandemic has caused. It hasn't been easy. Everyone has had to adapt to a new way of life. Tough decisions were made, and we find we're still having to make them.”
Organizers add the safety of attendees, celebrity guests and volunteers remain the first priority when planning Prince George’s next premier pop-culture convention.
“It's been a crazy ride into the unknown for all of us,” the update says.
“Northern FanCon is such a special event where so many friendships are made. We look forward to when the mighty geeks of the universe can once again be together.”
Canada’s international border remains closed to non-essential travel, currently until March 21, but this is very likely to be extended well-beyond the formal date.
B.C. has also banned organized public gatherings of any size, indoors or outdoors, until further notice as its COVID-19 vaccination phase continues.
As of this publication, Northern Health has recorded 4,437 COVID-19 infections since March 2020, which has included 105 deaths from the virus.
There are 264 active cases, 12 people admitted into critical care or ICU among 34 hospitalizations, and 4,057 recoveries.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is set to provide an update on B.C.’s pandemic situation at 1 p.m. this afternoon.
Northern FanCon also encourages its supporters and the public who have questions to reach out via social media or [email protected].
