Calera to host inaugural Nerd Fest

By MACKENZEE SIMMS | Staff Writer

CALERA – With costume competitions, dance parties and vendors, Calera Main Street will host the inaugural Calera Nerd Fest on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 6 p.m. until midnight.

According to Calera Main Street Director Jackie Batson, the festival will immerse attendees in a lively celebration of fandom, bringing together anime enthusiasts, K-pop lovers and creatives for an unforgettable evening of music, art and fun.

“We’re excited to offer an event like Calera Nerd Fest, which brings together people of all interests to enjoy a night of entertainment, art and connection,” Batson said. “It’s part of our ongoing mission to make downtown Calera a destination to shop, eat, play and explore.”

In addition to a K-pop/J-pop dance competition hosted by DJ Nadya, Calera Nerd Fest will also feature a cosplay contest with up to $250 in prizes. Costumes must be at least 70 percent handmade to qualify.

“Calera Nerd Fest is designed to be an immersive experience for all,” Batson said. “Whether you’re participating in the dance competition, browsing vendor booths, or enjoying the entertainment, this event promises to be a fantastic celebration of creativity and community.”

The primary location for Nerd Fest is the Calera Courtyard, but festival activities will sprawl across the entire downtown area. Art work and vendor booths will be on display at multiple Main Street shops and the Collectivus Event Center will house the Vendor Hall.

At Nerd Fest, guests will also be able to enjoy a 360 degree photo booth to capture their costumes, buy exclusive event T-shirts designed by Calera artist Geoffrey Gwin and utilize a shuttle service to a nearby hotel.

Attendees can chose from three ticket levels. Entry only tickets are $15. Tickets that include entry, a sandwich and a drink are $25. Tickets that include entry, a sandwich, a drink and a festival T-shirt are $40.

Those interested in more information about Calera Nerd Fest or purchasing tickets can visit Downtowncalera.org/calera-nerd-fest/.

SportsPlus

Columbiana

Shelby County’s Sykes and Shook, Montevallo’s Adams win state wrestling titles

280 Main Story

Oak Mountain claims Lakeshore Shootout Platinum Division title, extend unbeaten run to 36 matches

Alabaster Main Story

Making history: Thompson wins first sanctioned girls wrestling state title

Alabaster Main Story

Perfect 10: Thompson secures 10th boys wrestling state title as Johnson, Weltzin, Vines, Moore take first place

280 Reporter

Oak Mountain puts six goals past Prattville in shutout win

Alabaster Reporter

Thompson racks up program-record 13 goals in commanding win over Decatur

280 Main Story

Hoover City Schools prepares to celebrate “Be Kind Week”

Columbiana

Shelby County starts area play with dominant win at Sipsey Valley, earns first victory in two years

280 Main Story

RC3 Culinary Academy to host Masquerade Ball to support student scholarships

Columbiana

Shelby County wins first-ever girls soccer area game over Sipsey Valley after opening win over Tarrant

280 Main Story

Chelsea reaches fourth Elite Eight in five years with third-quarter run against Hueytown

Columbiana

Columbiana to hold third annual Arbor Day tree giveaway

280 Main Story

Baseball preview: One big question for each county team as action on the diamond heats up

280 Main Story

Briarwood’s defensive dominance paves way for Sweet 16 win over Selma

280 Reporter

“This for the city:” Montevallo rallies from 22 down to beat Briarwood for trip to Elite Eight

Helena

Helena Athletic Association raises money with Father-Daughter dance

Alabaster Main Story

THS bands entertain community with Pre-MPA Concert

Columbiana

Cornerstone advances to AISA Final Four with win over Snook

Alabaster Main Story

ACS Board of Education approves purchases for upcoming craft academy

Montevallo

Montevallo City Council approves salaries for next mayor, council

News

Pelham rodeo named Best Rodeo of 2024

News

Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge announces charitable efforts

280 Main Story

Shelby County Commission discusses changes to police departments

280 Main Story

Fast start propels Briarwood past Westminster OM in rainy match