Mark your calendars: Sideshow Gathering 2010

The 2010 edition of the Sideshow Gathering has been scheduled! It will be November 5, 6, and 7 at The Woodlands Inn & Resort in Wilkes-Barre! The Sideshow Gathering is run concurrently with the Inkin' the Valley Tattoo Convention - so if tattoos are your thing, come for that, and wander over to see the sideshow performances.

I've been going to the Sideshow Gathering since 2007, though last year was the first time I made it for all three days. (One low admission price provides admission for the entire show!) If you are at all interested in the sideshow, swordswallowing, up-close magic, or performing arts in general, this is a fantastic place to see a wide variety of acts. (Renaissance Faires, too - there is considerable overlap between the two worlds.) Living legends of the circus and the sideshow world make regular appearances, as do many of today's stars. Historical artifacts from the circus and sideshow worlds are on display - and some of them can be yours at the Sideshow Auction! (As I was warned, I regretted not getting a bidding paddle for the auction. But I'm sure that jackalope skull found a good home with Sylver Fyre and Gwyd the Unusual!)

For images and stories from previous gatherings, see these posts:
Another Monkey: Scenes from the Sideshow Gathering (2007)

Another Monkey: The Sideshow Gathering 2008, Part 1
Another Monkey: The Sideshow Gathering 2008, Part 2

Another Monkey: Scenes from the Sideshow Gathering, Day 1 (2009)
Another Monkey: Scenes from the Sideshow Gathering, Day 2 (2009)
Another Monkey: Sideshow Gathering Day 3 preview (2009)
Another Monkey: A new record at the Sideshow Gathering 2009!

I think this year I will make an effort to connect not just with the sideshow performers, but also with the other people photographing and recording the event. I know last year there were several photographers, at least two videographers, and a newsletter writer in attendance.