First Contact Con brings together sci-fi fans in Bozeman

BOZEMAN, Mont. — First Contact Con brought sci-fi fans together over the weekend in Bozeman, celebrating various science fiction worlds and cultures. 

In “Star Trek” lore, first contact between humans and Vulcans happens April 5, 2063, in Bozeman. However, the two-day event was for more than just Trekkies. 

Michal Madeline, founder and creative director of First Contact Con, said she started off as a “Star Wars” fan, but discovered “Star Trek” later, and found the messaging resonated with her. 

“Humanity comes into maturity when we not only tolerate but take a special delight in each other's differences. And I just fell in love with that concept and how much there was to build there,” she said. 

Convention attendees were encouraged to dress up for the occasion, and many could be seen dressed in Starfleet uniforms, or “Star Wars” garb. 

“I think in science fiction especially, everyone has some kind of fandom and we're all from somewhere else. And so, it's fun to watch those people come together and nerd out on their favorite character or their favorite costume or anything else like that,” Madeline said. 

The convention featured booths and vendors from different backgrounds, scientific and technological demonstrations, speakers and panels and artistic demonstrations and panels, as well. 

For Emily Hyde of Hyperspace Props, First Contact Con was a family affair. Creating the currency and games featured in “Star Wars” by hand started off as a hobby. 

“We wanted to make our own lives a little more immersive,” she said. 

She and her husband create the casting molds to make different types of currency featured in the franchise. Their kids also help out. And while usually they stay at home with a grandparent during conventions, Hyde said this time, they decided to bring them along from Idaho Falls. 

“I never thought “Star Wars” would be a blessing in my life, but it has turned into that, because it’s something that our family has bonded over with our children,” she said. “It’s been really nice to just have them hanging out and they’ve been teaching people ‘Sabacc,’ even helping out. I have more hope going into their teenage years — how about that? That they won’t be quite as, ‘Mom and dad aren’t cool,’ that we’ll be the cool parents.” 

Several weeks ago, Bozeman Mayor Joey Morrison made a proclamation at a city commission meeting declaring April 5 as First Contact Day in Bozeman. On Sunday, he reiterated that point, saying sci-fi universes are places where characters face struggles, work through them and where good can win, which can be a powerful message for those who emjoy them. 

“I urge all citizens to look to the stars with hope and to one another with open hearts and open minds,” he said.