FantazMagoriA 2025.
FantazMagoriA 2025.
Nine years ago, one man saw a gap in the local events scene and decided to fill it — with a touch of magic, a spark of sci-fi, and a whole lot of imagination. That man was Andrew Hall, the creative force behind FantazMagoriA, the North East’s homegrown celebration of science fiction, fantasy, and alternative culture.
“It all began because our area was sadly lacking in sci-fi and fantasy events,” Andrew explains. “Everything was happening in Newcastle or Middlesbrough, and we thought it was time that folk in the West of the region had something local of their own.”
With a background in running events at the Locomotion Museum, Andrew and his team decided it was the perfect starting point for their new venture. “The staff there were brilliant in helping us bring those first two events to life,” he recalls. “We had traders, clubs, and live music over a full weekend — it was a Steampunks’ paradise for photo opportunities.”
As Durham County Council took over management of the museum, the team began searching for a new venue to support their growing vision. That search led them to the Oakleaf Sports Complex, which ticked every box — especially accessibility. “One of our key requirements was that the event should be easy to get to,” Andrew says. “The Oakleaf sits right on the railway line, making it perfect for folk travelling from Bishop to Darlington. It just made sense.”
Of course, the pitch wasn’t an easy one to explain. “I remember sitting down with Judith and Anne at the Oakleaf trying to explain what a comic-con style event and Steampunk actually were!” Andrew laughs. “But once they saw that our aim was to give smaller, local groups and traders a chance to reach a wider audience, they got it — and they’ve been incredibly supportive ever since.”
That partnership has paid off in spades. Not only has FantazMagoriA become a staple of the local calendar, but it also opened the door for other creative and community groups to use the venue in new ways. “I don’t think the Oakleaf had ever had anything quite like Fant before,” Andrew reflects proudly.
FantazMagoriA also holds a special place in the hearts of many for another reason — it was one of the last public events before the Covid-19 lockdown, and after some careful planning, one of the first to return once restrictions lifted. “It was hard going laying that groundwork,” Andrew admits, “but it felt good to bring a bit of light and joy back into people’s lives after such a tough time.”
At its heart, FantazMagoriA has always been about inclusion, creativity, and community. “It’s always been our goal to provide a safe place for cosplayers, a platform for local traders, and a shop window for local groups,” Andrew says. “We want it to be affordable, accessible, and welcoming — a day out for everyone along the railway line.”
This year’s lineup was one of the most exciting yet, featuring Daleks, Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, a Nerf shooting range, living history displays by the East India Group, model exhibits from the Film & TV Model Club, South Lakes Model Club, North East Meccano Club, and Newton Aycliffe Veterans, along with plenty of Lego displays to delight visitors of all ages.
I had the pleasure of attending this year’s event myself, and it truly lived up to its reputation. The stalls were fantastic — creative, varied, and full of charm — and every person I met was kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about what they do. It’s the kind of atmosphere that reminds you why community events like this matter so much.
Andrew is quick to credit those who make it all possible. “I want to take this opportunity to thank all the groups and clubs — past and present — who’ve supported FantazMagoriA. Without them, it wouldn’t be what it is today.”
From humble beginnings to a thriving community celebration, FantazMagoriA has become far more than a convention — it’s a testament to creativity, connection, and the power of imagination.
Sarah Wingfield ❤️
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