"A substantial gathering of misfits, oddities, and eccentrics, Ghost Con in the U.K., caters exclusively to Ghost enthusiasts, offering events like satanic rituals, burlesque, and an abundance of cowbells."
Ghost Con, the UK's only fan convention dedicated to the devilish, masked party metal band, returned for its third year at the Salt Box in Nottingham. Founded and organized by Nik, who will also perform later with his own Ghost cover band, Popestars, the event has grown to become a significant celebration of Ghost's theatricality, world-building, and arena metal bangers.
As attendees poured in, around a dozen stalls were set up, selling custom Papa Emeritus plushies, figures, fan art, jewelry, postcards, and more. The atmosphere was electric, with many people having dressed up for the occasion, making it a sight with numerous costumes, similar to a comic con with fewer costumes. About half of the onlookers were in fancy dress, including more Papas, Sister Imperators, Nameless Ghouls, nuns, priests, demons, and devils.
Entertainment at Ghost Con included performances of Ghost songs, a live Satanic ritual, a cosplay contest, an over-18s afterparty with a drag performance and a burlesque set. The cosplay contest evolved into more of a catwalk, with Papa Trump participating. There was also a face painting booth, tarot reading, and a mini-exhibition featuring Ghost memorabilia, souvenirs, and Metal Hammer covers.
Three different Papa Emerituses (Papas II, III, and V) were on stage, along with Popestars and the UK's other prominent Ghost cover band, Host. The highlight of the event was a fan Q+A session with Ludvig Kennberg and Niels Nielsen, two genuine Ghost alumni who made on-stage appearances and participated in Popestars' headline set. Another Papa Emeritus, dressed as Donald Trump, was walking through the crowd, adding to the overall surreal experience.
Nik, the founder of Ghost Con, described the Ghost community as a "massive family" of geeks, freaks, and weirdos. This family, he said, is passionate about Ghost's music and often crafty, dressing up in various costumes. The power of Ghost music was palpable, with Square Hammer being heard in various forms multiple times in one afternoon.
Fans of all ages, including excited teens and parents with Ghost battle jacket-donning toddlers, had traveled from various locations to attend Ghost Con. As the night drew to a close, attendees left with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for Ghost Con's return in 2026.
Despite no search results specifying the location of Ghost Con in 2026, one thing is certain: Ghost Con will continue to be a unique and unforgettable celebration of Ghost and its dedicated fanbase.
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