Jill is a long-time MISTI attendee who loves quidditch, Harry Potter, project managenent, and lots of other geeky things. Her muggle job is as an archivist in Alberta, Canada. She is a Volunteer Coordinator for MISTI-Con.
Thursday July 18, 2019 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Costumes are fun to wear, and can be easy to make. Learn some of the basics to make a robe, or any outfit that you want to wear for cosplay or conventions.
James has been costuming since 2004, and made his Snape outfit in 2007 after reading all the HP books. He's been on costuming panels at other conventions, as well being the Masquerade Director at Arisia for their Masquerade, a costume showcase.
Thursday July 18, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
We were all drawn to the world of Harry Potter for various reasons. We might have entered the HP world through the books or movies, but at some point they became magical for us. Let’s return to that time and discuss what brought us here, and how we have benefited from being a part of this world.
Traci is one of the Co-Head Organizers of MISTI-Con and Programming Director. She has been involved with MISTI since 2013. Prior to MISTI she presented at Ascendio and has volunteered at LeakyCon. Traci discovered the HP fandom in 2005, and loves how it has enriched her life. She... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Join The Kitchen Witch, Jenn Wotchertonks, for a fun and creative Magical Cookie Decorating worshop. We’ll use icing, sprinkles and edible food markers to decorate cookies as Hogwarts House Creasts, magical beasts and Harry Potter characters.
What makes tattoos so special? It’s all about self-expression. Join this round table to show off your tattoos (fandomy or not), or share your stories behind each. Talk about your studio experiences or ideas for your next tattoo. Don’t have a tattoo yet, but want one? Come anyway! This is your chance to pick the brains of tattoo veterans and learn some tips when it comes to getting your first tattoo.
Kristina Moy is an email marketing guru in the day & an illustrator/tea blender whenever she has free time. 12+ years of making art & 5+ years in tea blending has let Kristina spread fandom love through her artwork and fandom teas. She is also an avid tattoo collector who enjoys yoga... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Meet-up with fellow Introverts and Ambiverts and discuss coping mechanisms to keep from feeling overwhelmed at conventions. You bring the wands, we'll bring the chocolate!
Traci is one of the Co-Head Organizers of MISTI-Con and Programming Director. She has been involved with MISTI since 2013. Prior to MISTI she presented at Ascendio and has volunteered at LeakyCon. Traci discovered the HP fandom in 2005, and loves how it has enriched her life. She... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Do you know your mandrakes from your manticores? How many points is the snitch worth in the real life IQA? Who played Delores Umbridge in the movies? If these questions are getting you excited then a trivia session is just right for you. Put your wands (and muggle devices down) and compete in a small team or as an individual to be the official Insufferable Know-It-All of MISTI-Con.
Jill is a long-time MISTI attendee who loves quidditch, Harry Potter, project managenent, and lots of other geeky things. Her muggle job is as an archivist in Alberta, Canada. She is a Volunteer Coordinator for MISTI-Con.
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
What's better than quoting your favorite Harry Potter scenes to each other? Reading the scenes with each other! Join us for table readings of your favorite scenes from all 10 films and Cursed Child - if you want a part, put your name on the list at registration - parts will be assigned randomly (out of a Sorting Hat) and scripts will be available.
In the HP novels there are some important events which we know happened but we didn’t see them. Let’s try to imagine five of those events: 1. The Dursleys upon finding the baby Harry on their doorstep. 2. The conversation between Dumbledore and Fudge after the battle at the Ministry. 3. The Dursleys in hiding with the wizards. 4. The disposal of Tom Riddle's body. 5. The wedding of Ron and Hermione.
David Martin is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is a retired computer programmer. He has been following Harry Potter since 1999 and has made presentations at several conventions. He is proud to be a Hufflepuff and wishes that Hermione had ended up with him rather than with... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Does having to choose between M or F on forms make you cringe? If you identify as agender, intersex, genderfluid, non-binary or any variation under the gender non-conforming umbrella, this gender-expansive meetup is for you! Meet other MISTI-Con attendees, share personal and fandom stories, play icebreakers and hopefully make friends to last a lifetime.
Jennifer Levine has been studying tarot for more than 20 years, since she received her first deck from a distant, much cooler cousin. During a recent deep analysis, she realized how much The Fool's Journey aligns with the Harry Potter series and is excited to discuss this idea with... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Vladimir Snape is a hoopy frood who knows where his towel is. He is also, some would say, the bravest man they've ever known, due to his indomitable spirit while battling stage four metastatic cancer. He has also been known to sing and play guitar.
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Westchester NDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Cecilia Tan, author of The Siren & the Sword, Daron's Guitar Chronicles, and The Prince's Boy will read selections from her current or upcoming books and will answer questions from the audience.
Cecilia Tan is the award-winning author of over 25 novels including the Magic University series, and the editor of over 100 anthologies of short stories. Her fiction has appeared in Asimov's, Ms. Magazine, Strange Horizons, and many other places. Keep up with her at ceciliatan.com... Read More →
Thursday July 18, 2019 9:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
For connoisseurs and authors of “mature” fanfiction, this meet-up is a judgment-free zone. Join other fanfic writers and enthusiasts as we discuss how we engage with transformative works of the explicit variety. We’ll play a game of erotic Mad Libs to create our own fanfic drabble. Then, prepare to be delighted by a rousing live reading of selected works, read by the stimulating authors of the MISTI-Con 2019 Fanfiction Collection. Mature adults (18+) are welcome.
We've all watched the movies...but not like this. The original eight have been cut into individual scenes and thrown into a random mixer. Come along as we go on a wild visual trip through the series we love.
Kat Ell - HP fan, convention volunteer/staffer who can't ever say "No" when asked to help out, Slytherin with a Hufflepuff core. Costumer, Filker, Writer, Artist...all thanks to the HP Universe.
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:30pm - Friday July 19, 2019 12:30am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Well behaved women rarely make history, and The Misbehavin’ Maidens continue that tradition by singing music about sex positivity and women’s rights to change the narrative involving adult folk and filk music. They sing on a variety of topics, with education and feminism being key points; right alongside sex, violence, and Sci Fi. This panel will be focusing on why they do what they do, and why it’s important for women to get up on stage and sing about orgasms, Dr Who, and murder. This panel will also feature a Q and A. 18+ Recommended. (The Misbehavin' Maidens)
Jill is a long-time MISTI attendee who loves quidditch, Harry Potter, project managenent, and lots of other geeky things. Her muggle job is as an archivist in Alberta, Canada. She is a Volunteer Coordinator for MISTI-Con.
Friday July 19, 2019 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Come out to the MISTI-Con table to share your Harry Potter and MISTI-CON stories, thoughts, feelings and adventures in our online VLOG. Interviews will be compiled and shared each morning and eventually put together as a video diary at the end of the convention.
Originally intended as a place to showcase cosplay photos of founder, creative director and entertainer, Lawrence Neals (and like minded fanboys, fangirls and friends), GeekLifeRules has evolved into geek themed cosplay, entertainment and event hosting, having hosted panels and participated... Read More →
When “the eighth story” and a new film franchise were announced for the Wizarding World, it appeared the fandom was in for a renaissance. However, several years past 2016, that’s not the case. The, ahem, divisive reception to the expanding Wizarding World™ has thrown a wrench into our favorite pastime of HP analysis. Join the authors of books about Dumbledore and about Snape to discuss engaging with HP in this fraught new era of fandom.
Irvin (“hpboy13” online) has been a prolific member of HP fandom since 2003, and identifies as Ravenpuff. He is the author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. He is MuggleNet’s controversial columnist, over at The Three Broomsticks. He is the Dark... Read More →
Lorrie Kim is the author of Snape: A Definitive Reading. She lives in Philadelphia, PA with her clever, grumpy, magical spouse and their geeky offspring, one born between Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince and one in gestation during the publication of Deathly Hallows.
Friday July 19, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Portraits and summoned creatures are examples of lifelike magic created by wizards. Films and artificial intelligence are examples of lifelike technology created by muggles. This academic presentation will highlight similarities in how both populations interact with their lifelike creations and explain why ignorance is bliss and a little learning can be a dangerous thing. (Note: a lot of learning is still good though.)
Brian Bernard is an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX. When not completing technical research in nonlinear dynamics, autonomous systems, virtual reality, or participatory fandom, he can be found fan editing. Dr. Bernard has released 3 full-length... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
If you are a Magical being of any age, like to do good deeds, earn badges, and do crafts, come join the World Organization of Magical Scouting! At this welcome meeting, we’ll meet new magical scouts, rededicate returning members, have fun doing some badge activities, and an awesome magical scout craft that you may find useful at MISTI-Con!
Dariti Peterson, a scouting volunteer for 17+ years, combined her love of the magical world of Harry Potter, and scouting to found the World Organization of Magical Scouts (WOrMS) in 2015 with her first troop of 7 members. WOrM Scouts continues to gain members, and new badges and... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Master Wandcrafter Carol Oster will present and discuss the history of magic wands, their characteristics, and the characteristics of several famous wands used by the heroes of the Battle of Hogwarts.
Carol Oster, aka The Wandcrafter, has been crafting and researching magic wands since 2007. She is versed in the history and traditions behind the use of "sticks of power", woods, and gemstones used in crafting many of today's finest wands. In her fandom persona, she is the niece... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Harry Potter’s educational system derives largely from the British boarding school model, but there are a lot of other options out there. How might magical school look different in another country -- or another world? Author discuss the thaumaturgical pedagogy of their imaginations and the factors they consider when developing a magical curriculum.
Sarah Guan is an associate editor of science fiction and fantasy at Orbit Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group. She has previously worked both for other SFF publishers and for a literary agency. She enjoys fiction that asks hard questions and expands one's horizons, all while... Read More →
D.R. Perry writes fun Young Adult Paranormal, tongue-in-cheek Urban Fantasy, noir Alternate History, and soon, witchy Cozy Mysteries with cute magical critters. She lives with her husband, child, and dog in Rhode Island where all her books are set. Although she's not a native New... Read More →
Cecilia Tan is the award-winning author of over 25 novels including the Magic University series, and the editor of over 100 anthologies of short stories. Her fiction has appeared in Asimov's, Ms. Magazine, Strange Horizons, and many other places. Keep up with her at ceciliatan.com... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Vladimir Snape is a hoopy frood who knows where his towel is. He is also, some would say, the bravest man they've ever known, due to his indomitable spirit while battling stage four metastatic cancer. He has also been known to sing and play guitar.
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
Westchester SDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
The Tarot has many things to teach us, including revealing new secrets about our favorite book series. The Fool's Journey is a metaphor for the journey through life with each Major Arcana card symbolizing a phase of that journey. Who is The Fool in Harry Potter's journey? Is it Harry, is it the reader, or could it be Dumbledore? We'll answer these and other questions, also discussing how we use Harry Potter in our readings. All skill-levels are welcome: novice to veteran.
Jennifer Levine has been studying tarot for more than 20 years, since she received her first deck from a distant, much cooler cousin. During a recent deep analysis, she realized how much The Fool's Journey aligns with the Harry Potter series and is excited to discuss this idea with... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Behind our actions are the influences of stories we let inform our personal policies or that help us interpret the world. Aspects of Harry Potter inspired us to think creatively, interact inclusively, plan ambitiously, act ardently. What aspect hit you in such a way that you conduct yourself differently now? What action can you trace the origin of back to the series? Tell us the story that epitomizes the books’ effect on you.
Kitty writes stories and screenplays, and DMs a short list of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition campaigns. She has made the objective of her stories the compulsion of ordinary people to do extraordinary things. A Gryffindor with a heavy Slytherin streak, she has spent fourteen years... Read More →
Cass Morris works as a writer and educator in central Virginia and occasionally moonlights as a bookseller in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She completed her Master of Letters at Mary Baldwin University in 2010, and she earned her undergraduate degree, a BA in English with a... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Many botanical gardens around the world have Shakespeare gardens featuring plants mentioned throughout The Bard's works. But what about a Harry Potter Garden? Madam "Betz" Stump will cover the plants included in the series and give you ideas on how to create your own Harry Potter themed garden and provide handouts to take home in which to design a Harry Potter garden of your own choosing. This lecture back by popular demand.
Madam "Betz" Stump is a self-taught plant hound who has lectured about Herbology and Potions ingredient symbolism at many HP cons over the years. Betz is a SS/HG shipper and fanfic writer, and dreams of the day when she will have a house large enough in which she can recreate the... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Is the Elder wand the spear that pierced Christ's side? Do the deathly hallows connect to the holy grail? How does Grindlewald connect with Nazi Germany? Delve into European mythologies and history as we journey through the quest of the Deathly Hallows.
While there are only a handful of Black characters in the Wizarding World, Black Potterheads have found home in Hogwarts the same way others have. At Black Girls Create we started a project called Hogwarts BSU, which allows Black Potterheads to create fanfiction, fanart, and more in order to imagine life as a Black Hogwarts student. In this panel we will discuss race in the Wizarding World, our favorite Black witches and wizards, as well as the importance of writing yourself into the spaces you wouldn’t be seen in otherwise.
All Wizarding World fans have their own personal connection to the works, however for those who sre LGBTQ+ there is another level to the way the material is experienced. The sexuality and gender of the reader can influence the way Canon is interpreted, thereby the way that Fanon/Fanworks are created, and Fandom itself is experienced. Join us in a supportive and safe environment, as we examine the struggles and strengths of LGBTQ+ fans.
Nicole Bee (aka 'Ramblingnic' in fandom) has been obsessed with HP since 2005. She has attended several HPEF conventions, Wrockstock, and MISTI-con. She last presented the well-received ‘Spare the Rod: BDSM in Harry Potter Fan Fiction’ at Terminus. Since then, she has continued... Read More →
Samuel is a huge fan of Harry Potter (shocking). He is very crafty and has made an entire suit of armor out of cantabs. If you ask him nicely he will show you how to do it. Samuel is also an animal lover, especially the bizarre ones. Echidnas, aye-ayes and marsupial moles are among... Read More →
“It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” “The weapon we have is love.” These two lines set up the entire Harry Potter series, and establish two not magical, but rather human, powers as the most important in the story. Perhaps no other parts of the series emphasize that more than the lives of Snape and Dumbledore. In this presentation, I explore how the two of the most iconic and controversial characters are shaped by the powers of love and choice in parallel and yet opposite ways.
Katy Herman is a proud Hufflepuff, a writer, and a lover of literary analysis. She probably wouldn’t be any of those things if it weren’t for Harry Potter. This is her ninth convention with her BFF and partner in Potter, her mom, and her third time as a presenter. When she’s... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world is filled with animals that are not Fantastic Beasts, but which appear in witch trials. Cats, toads, rats, and owls, the feared accomplices of witches, become assistants in Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts: Mrs. Norris and Mrs. Figgs’ multiple cats, magical service animals; French tabbies, magical guards; the familiars of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, pets at Hogwarts. This presentation draws on witch trials, folklore, fantasy, and children’s stories as the sources for the animals of Rowling’s universe.
Melissa D. Aaron, aka “Moonyprof,” is a Professor of English at Cal Poly Pomona, where she teaches a Harry Potter course. Her areas are Shakespeare and theatre history. Her Harry Potter specialty is Lupin and werewolves. Her papers include “Newt Scamander and the Uses of Compassion... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
The witches and wizards in the Harry Potter novels use many “old-fashioned” things, such as quills, parchment, and torches, although other contemporary fictional representations of witches (such as "Bewitched" and "Sabrina") show them using telephones and electricity. Why did Rowling build her world so differently? This presentation shows that such old-fashioned are the logical consequence of "The International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy."
David Martin is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is a retired computer programmer. He has been following Harry Potter since 1999 and has made presentations at several conventions. He is proud to be a Hufflepuff and wishes that Hermione had ended up with him rather than with... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Hard work, Bravery, Wisdom, and Cunning from this partial list of traits you would be able to pick the house that each belongs to. But what if the Founders had valued different traits instead? How would those traits come to define that house and be reflected in the students? Or the school as a whole?
I’m a 30 something from Texas, Huge HP fan from the first word of the first book. And have been going to Cons since 08. I enjoy roundtables, as the discussion on whatever topic can lead to anything being said. I tend to be a bit odd or oddly creative like Luna, who I cosplay...with... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
A panel of authors and editors discuss building the expressions and limitations of magic in fantasy realms, portal universes, and alternate histories. What can magic do -- and what are its limitations and costs? Where does power draw from, how is it invoked, is it innate or learned? How do authors and editors decide what lines to draw -- and how do they keep themselves consistent? Authors may also discuss their sources of inspiration and challenges they’ve encountered.
Cecilia Tan is the award-winning author of over 25 novels including the Magic University series, and the editor of over 100 anthologies of short stories. Her fiction has appeared in Asimov's, Ms. Magazine, Strange Horizons, and many other places. Keep up with her at ceciliatan.com... Read More →
Sarah Guan is an associate editor of science fiction and fantasy at Orbit Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group. She has previously worked both for other SFF publishers and for a literary agency. She enjoys fiction that asks hard questions and expands one's horizons, all while... Read More →
Stephanie Guerdan works in editorial at HarperCollins Children’s Books, where she acquires and edits middle grade and teen. Some of the books she has worked on include the acclaimed debut We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia and the Soldier Dogs series. She likes queer fiction... Read More →
Lindsay Ribar is one-third of the writing team behind THE PROS OF CONS, along with Alison Cherry and Michelle Schusterman. As a solo author, her work includes the YA contemporary fantasy ROCKS FALL, EVERYONE DIES (Andre Norton award nomination), and the YA genie duology THE ART OF... Read More →
"J.K. Rowling explained away racism in the Wizarding World, saying that “there was mutual respect and a sense of kinship between all wizards, no matter what their race.” In this keynote, we will discuss the problem with this statement and the ways in which race and racism show up not only in the Wizarding World but in the fandom as a whole. How does the intersectionality between race and other identities shape people in the fandom and characters in the series?
Featuring a Panel of Bayana Davis (Black Girls Create), Constance Gibbs (Black Girls Create), Lawerence Neals (Entertainer), Lorrie Kim (Author) and moderated by Robyn Jordan (Black Girls Create)
Attending the MISTI-Con Keynote Luncheon requires an additional ticket, available for $50 at the link above. The luncheon is included with any VIP level membership."
Robyn Jordan, co-founder and Head of Community for Black Girls Create whose life forever changed when she discovered the Harry Potter series and nothing was the same for her or the people around her. Robyn is a true California girl, born and raised all over Southern California she... Read More →
Bayana Davis is a proud Ravenclaw/Hufflepuff hatstall born and raised in Oakland, California. She is the cofounder and Editor in Chief of Black Girls Create and cohost of the podcast #WizardTeam. She is a fierce advocate of critical fandom, the increased representation of Black women... Read More →
Constance Gibbs is a writer, editor, photographer, podcaster, epic tweeter and TV junkie living in NYC. She currently a writer for an educational children’s magazine, the Managing Editor for Black Girls Create, and co-host of the Doctor Who podcast TARBIS. Connie is most often found... Read More →
Lorrie Kim is the author of Snape: A Definitive Reading. She lives in Philadelphia, PA with her clever, grumpy, magical spouse and their geeky offspring, one born between Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince and one in gestation during the publication of Deathly Hallows.
Wands at the ready! Come test your magical knowledge at The Spelling Test, a pub-style trivia contest all about the spells in the Potter universe. Brought to you by the duo that ran the bafflingly difficult Fandom Trivia last MISTI, this clever quiz will see if you know your accio from your engorgio! So dust off your battered copy of Standard Book of Spells or risk being stupefied. Will you charm your way to victory or end up being cursed? Only tempus will tell…
Grace Kendall (they/them) is a wizard rock historian and notorious nomad. When not writing sad songs about books, they run @wix_rock on Twitter and organize the annual Wizard Rock Sampler. Grace also designs board games, makes nerdy candles and soaps for Trolley Witches, and reads... Read More →
Mike Belsole (he/him) is a retired wizard rocker and Thornsaddle writer. He is also a proud alumnus of the New York Badassilisks community quidditch team. In his retirement, he has enjoyed whiling away the hours designing board games. Please play games with him.
Friday July 19, 2019 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Westchester NDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Join Samuel for a Care of Magical Creatures lesson exploring how the muggle classification system can be used in the magical world. Don’t know what that means? Come and find out!
Samuel is a huge fan of Harry Potter (shocking). He is very crafty and has made an entire suit of armor out of cantabs. If you ask him nicely he will show you how to do it. Samuel is also an animal lover, especially the bizarre ones. Echidnas, aye-ayes and marsupial moles are among... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
When Harry accidentally Floos to Borgin & Burkes in Chamber of Secrets, he encounters an array of fascinating Dark artifacts. But nothing in the HP books is ever listed without reason: the wares of Borgin & Burkes keep popping up in the series in several exciting ways. This presentation will go through several patterns and parallels surrounding those objects throughout the HP books, leaving you in further awe of Jo Rowling’s early foreshadowing.
Irvin (“hpboy13” online) has been a prolific member of HP fandom since 2003, and identifies as Ravenpuff. He is the author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. He is MuggleNet’s controversial columnist, over at The Three Broomsticks. He is the Dark... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
For most of the last 5000 years, herbs were the only available medicine. Learn about herbal use in folklore, and JK Rowling's take on creating the magical plants of Harry Potter. Then, fast forward to modern herbalism and it's practical uses. The gentle art of herb usage can be accessed by everyone. Learn about safely introducing herbs, tips on where to buy herbs or on growing your own. Two simple infusions, or teas, will be prepared.
Lynne Allison is a native Kansan currently living in rural Iowa. She has a degree in biology from Kansas State and has worked in pharmacy, veterinary virology and surgical technology. A lifelong gardener, since retiring Lynne has pursued a more in-depth study of herbs and their medicinal... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
A panel of publishing professionals discuss how the Harry Potter franchise might look different if it were the product of the late-2010s, not the late-90s and early 2000s. How might the themes be different? How might it reflect current YA trends? Would it reflect a more diverse community? What might a hypothetical 2020s reboot look like?
Cass Morris works as a writer and educator in central Virginia and occasionally moonlights as a bookseller in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She completed her Master of Letters at Mary Baldwin University in 2010, and she earned her undergraduate degree, a BA in English with a... Read More →
Sarah Guan is an associate editor of science fiction and fantasy at Orbit Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group. She has previously worked both for other SFF publishers and for a literary agency. She enjoys fiction that asks hard questions and expands one's horizons, all while... Read More →
Stephanie Guerdan works in editorial at HarperCollins Children’s Books, where she acquires and edits middle grade and teen. Some of the books she has worked on include the acclaimed debut We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia and the Soldier Dogs series. She likes queer fiction... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Are you attending MISTI-Con with your kids, or are you a kid attending with your parent(s)? Families are invited to this informal gathering to get to know one another, do a craft project, have a snack, or play a game together. PLEASE NOTE: all children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire meet-up, and all adults must be accompanied by a child.
Chloe Pisani has been attending Harry Potter fandom events with her mom since she was a baby. She read the entire series after MISTI-Con 2015 and has since fully embraced the wizarding world.
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Because the Harry Potter novels are written in English, and because we love them, it is easy for us to forget that the novels are set in a British context. Reading these novels with American eyes, we can misunderstand some points of the story. This presentation begins with details (e.g., Why Ron says that the fifty pence piece is “weird.”) and moves on to what “pure blood” means in a British context.
David Martin is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is a retired computer programmer. He has been following Harry Potter since 1999 and has made presentations at several conventions. He is proud to be a Hufflepuff and wishes that Hermione had ended up with him rather than with... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Kickstarter is a great tool for raising funds to create a top-notch, professional studio album. Learn from folks who have run successful album Kickstarters about their best tips and tricks for making it worth the time investment!
Have you ever wondered how the Magical world dealt with crime and criminals? If your child's accidental magic Apparated them away, how would you have found them? If someone broke through your wards and stole your bag of Galleons, how would you get it back? This presentation will try and answer those questions and others, such as: What is the Ministry of Magic's Department of Magical Law Enforcement really like? How do the Aurors train? What are Hit Wizards? Do they have some type of an emergency communications system? What would a tactical response look like? How would the Aurors have change since the Second War? Join us and share your views!
Lilyseyes has been a 911 dispatcher for 30 years and has been teaching law enforcement professionals around the country for the past ten years. With an emphasis on tactical dispatching and emergency preparedness, Lilyseyes has solid working knowledge of Muggle law enforcement practices... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
What would the Sorting Hat say to Iron Man, Black Widow, or Valkyrie? Come join an 11-year-old Marvel Cinematic Universe fan for a rousing crossover discussion! All ages welcome.
Many authors writing fantasy and YA fiction now are members of the “Harry Potter generation”. How has that affected them? Join a panel of published authors talking about how Harry Potter inspired them, introduced them to new concepts, or got them interested in publishing.
Bess Carnan works very hard to maintain her “good fan” cred within the Harry Potter fandom. This includes owning a lot of Ravenclaw gear and getting very stressed during HP trivia games. She loves Madam Malkin’s and is stoked to fill in while Madam Malkin the First is touring... Read More →
D.R. Perry writes fun Young Adult Paranormal, tongue-in-cheek Urban Fantasy, noir Alternate History, and soon, witchy Cozy Mysteries with cute magical critters. She lives with her husband, child, and dog in Rhode Island where all her books are set. Although she's not a native New... Read More →
Lindsay Ribar is one-third of the writing team behind THE PROS OF CONS, along with Alison Cherry and Michelle Schusterman. As a solo author, her work includes the YA contemporary fantasy ROCKS FALL, EVERYONE DIES (Andre Norton award nomination), and the YA genie duology THE ART OF... Read More →
Cecilia Tan is the award-winning author of over 25 novels including the Magic University series, and the editor of over 100 anthologies of short stories. Her fiction has appeared in Asimov's, Ms. Magazine, Strange Horizons, and many other places. Keep up with her at ceciliatan.com... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
"You disgust me." "You have used me." "Severus...please..." Did Dumbledore use Snape or save him? What was his plan for Snape with the Elder Wand? Was he as guilty as Snape when he was young, or even more? Join the author of Snape: A Definitive Reading as we delve into the original series, Cursed Child, and the Fantastic Beasts films to understand the highly charged partnership between Dumbledore and his right-hand man.
Lorrie Kim is the author of Snape: A Definitive Reading. She lives in Philadelphia, PA with her clever, grumpy, magical spouse and their geeky offspring, one born between Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince and one in gestation during the publication of Deathly Hallows.
Friday July 19, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Have you ever wanted to write a song about Harry Potter, or any other fandom that you love? Witch rockers Christie Mowery, Leah Hamm, Ashley Hamel and wix rocker Grace Kendall will step by step teach you how they navigate the process and by the end of the hour, will help you to write your own fandom song!
Christie Mowery is half of the vocals for Hawthorn & Holly, a pop punk band she founded in 2007 that plays songs about Harry Potter. She's been singing professionally since 1997. She lives in Charlotte NC with her son Phoenix, husband Eddie, and two magical birds named Peanut Butter... Read More →
Grace Kendall (they/them) is a wizard rock historian and notorious nomad. When not writing sad songs about books, they run @wix_rock on Twitter and organize the annual Wizard Rock Sampler. Grace also designs board games, makes nerdy candles and soaps for Trolley Witches, and reads... Read More →
Leah Hamm is the other half of the vocalists in Hawthorn & Holly. She's been singing professionally since 2007. She lives in Salisbury NC with her husband Clif and her 3 sweet dogs, Axel, Minnie and Tucker.
Ashley Hamel is a singer-songwriter, improviser, and wizard rocker based out of Connecticut. Her energetic live show combines her powerful pop vocals and rhythm guitar with strong songwriting and a commanding stage presence. A traveler at heart, she has played showcases in Indonesia... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Westchester NDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Join hosts from MuggleNet podcasts Alohomora! and SpeakBeasty as they discuss the overlap between the "Harry Potter" series and the "Fantastic Beasts" films. Where does it work well? Where does it fail miserably? What does it mean for canon? And how can we use our "Harry Potter" knowledge to predict what will happen in later "Fantastic Beasts" film installments?
Harry Potter, with its rise concurrent to that of the flourishing of the internet and the start of social media, saw an investigative and discourse-prone readership. As the books came out, fans made predictions, picked apart inconsistencies, hunted down easter eggs, and generally dissected the books not just thoroughly, but quite publicly. How do authors now write with expectations born of such engaged readership, social media, and spoiler culture?
Irvin (“hpboy13” online) has been a prolific member of HP fandom since 2003, and identifies as Ravenpuff. He is the author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. He is MuggleNet’s controversial columnist, over at The Three Broomsticks. He is the Dark... Read More →
Stephanie Guerdan works in editorial at HarperCollins Children’s Books, where she acquires and edits middle grade and teen. Some of the books she has worked on include the acclaimed debut We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia and the Soldier Dogs series. She likes queer fiction... Read More →
Cass Morris works as a writer and educator in central Virginia and occasionally moonlights as a bookseller in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She completed her Master of Letters at Mary Baldwin University in 2010, and she earned her undergraduate degree, a BA in English with a... Read More →
Lindsay Ribar is one-third of the writing team behind THE PROS OF CONS, along with Alison Cherry and Michelle Schusterman. As a solo author, her work includes the YA contemporary fantasy ROCKS FALL, EVERYONE DIES (Andre Norton award nomination), and the YA genie duology THE ART OF... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
#wizardsagainstcancer is the hashtag used by Vladimir Snape as he chronicled his battle with cancer. If you have been following his journey, or if you or someone you love have been profoundly affected by cancer, this meet up is for you. Be supported, be heard, be loved.
Narcissa Snape is a vodka-fueled law student whose favorite past times include dismantling the patriarchy, hanging with her dog, human rights advocacy, and demonology. She's responsible for keeping her fiance, Vladimir Snape, out of trouble and in good health.
By day- Master Baking Alchemist, Cake Artist and owner of Sweetly Wild Bake Shop. By night-broom taxi driver for her teen witch/wizard and their friends.For fun, she reads, WROCKS, and bench presses Death Eaters without the use of levitation charms. She is the Girl-Who-Lived, having... Read More →
Vladimir Snape is a hoopy frood who knows where his towel is. He is also, some would say, the bravest man they've ever known, due to his indomitable spirit while battling stage four metastatic cancer. He has also been known to sing and play guitar.
Friday July 19, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Madam Malkin’s Consignment Shoppe is a chance to peruse a selection of the finest gently-used wizard gear. Come browse our racks and tables of magical items, all looking for a new life with you. Clothes make the mage, after all! A portion of all sales will be donated to the MISTI 2021 start-up fund.
Bess Carnan works very hard to maintain her “good fan” cred within the Harry Potter fandom. This includes owning a lot of Ravenclaw gear and getting very stressed during HP trivia games. She loves Madam Malkin’s and is stoked to fill in while Madam Malkin the First is touring... Read More →
Crabbe and Goyle are Dead by Kitty Keim is an absurd comedy exploring the existential crises happening off-stage during a very famous, and equally tumultuous, seven year span at everyone’s favorite school of witchcraft and wizardry. Please join us for a staged reading of this brand new show which premiered last month at the Hollywood Fringe Festival!
Dylan Kennedy Grey is a Ravenclaw, game designer, husband, pet parent, and nearly-life-long fan of magical literature. In the mundane world, Dylan works as a therapeutic day treatment counselor and runs an after school theatre program with his wife for underserved youth in their home... Read More →
Friday July 19, 2019 5:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
Westchester SDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Join Scorpius Malfoy and Albus Severus Potter, esquire, as they endeavor to finish their final projects and possibly even found “Wild Slytherins” in a zany musical parody with plenty of classic pop and musical theatre classics with original lyrics by Cat Smith & Lawrence Neals! The show kicks off with special opening Ukulele performance by Katie Pierce. The show will feature a cast professional actors and performers, plus some special Wizards plucked from the “time” of the audience.
Are you ready for a mic dropping experience? It is time to battle is out and see who will take home the coveted mic trophy and be named champion of Lip Sync Battle II. It’s time to Bring IT!
The Dancing Death Eaters are the world's first wizard dance troupe, performing ballroom dance routines to wizard rock songs all about Death Eaters. Between 2009 and 2014, they performed fourteen different routines at all manner of concerts and parties. This is their triumphant return after a five-year hiatus, featuring new dancers and new routines, but the same evil flair as always!Featuring Irvin Khaytman, Leeza Torres, Julia O'Connell, and Angelica Capotorto.
Friday July 19, 2019 10:30pm - 10:45pm EDT
Grand BallroomDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Who said the cleverest of the four Hogwarts houses doesn’t know how to party? The Ravenclaws are hosting a rave in their common room, open to ALL who want to dance! Techno, pop divas, boy bands, hip-hop, and other music from the 1990’s will feature heavily at this party that harkens back to the decade when Harry, Ron, and Hermione traipsed through the school. Guests will be encouraged to twirl glow wands and wear club garb or any 1990’s fashion fads. Party like it’s 1999 at Rave-n-Claw with DJ Swish!
We've all watched the movies...but not like this. The original eight have been cut into individual scenes and thrown into a random mixer. Come along as we go on a wild visual trip through the series we love.
Kat Ell - HP fan, convention volunteer/staffer who can't ever say "No" when asked to help out, Slytherin with a Hufflepuff core. Costumer, Filker, Writer, Artist...all thanks to the HP Universe.
Friday July 19, 2019 11:30pm - Saturday July 20, 2019 1:30am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Jill is a long-time MISTI attendee who loves quidditch, Harry Potter, project managenent, and lots of other geeky things. Her muggle job is as an archivist in Alberta, Canada. She is a Volunteer Coordinator for MISTI-Con.
Saturday July 20, 2019 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Madam Malkin’s Consignment Shoppe is a chance to peruse a selection of the finest gently-used wizard gear. Come browse our racks and tables of magical items, all looking for a new life with you. Clothes make the mage, after all! A portion of all sales will be donated to the MISTI 2021 start-up fund.
Bess Carnan works very hard to maintain her “good fan” cred within the Harry Potter fandom. This includes owning a lot of Ravenclaw gear and getting very stressed during HP trivia games. She loves Madam Malkin’s and is stoked to fill in while Madam Malkin the First is touring... Read More →
Come out to the MISTI-Con table to share your Harry Potter and MISTI-CON stories, thoughts, feelings and adventures in our online VLOG. Interviews will be compiled and shared each morning and eventually put together as a video diary at the end of the convention.
Originally intended as a place to showcase cosplay photos of founder, creative director and entertainer, Lawrence Neals (and like minded fanboys, fangirls and friends), GeekLifeRules has evolved into geek themed cosplay, entertainment and event hosting, having hosted panels and participated... Read More →
What if Harry never got his Hogwarts letter? What if instead of inheriting a vault of gold, he’d stayed with the Dursleys? With Credence Barebone, Rowling revisits her themes without the fairy-tale protections that kept Harry’s story safe. In the Fantastic Beasts universe, children kill. Coercion works. These tales are darker, the audience is older, and the magic is honest and raw. Come theorize and speculate as we revel in the excitement of mid-series hiatus.
Lorrie Kim is the author of Snape: A Definitive Reading. She lives in Philadelphia, PA with her clever, grumpy, magical spouse and their geeky offspring, one born between Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince and one in gestation during the publication of Deathly Hallows.
Saturday July 20, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Have you ever fallen in love with an incredible woman, only for her to fall in love with someone else and then die? Did you then project all of your feelings onto her unsuspecting child? Many characters in popular media struggle with these problems, but don't worry: there's hope! Join me to compare how three fictional characters handle unrequited love and draw some healthy conclusions. WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS for Harry Potter, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and Steven Universe.
Grace Kendall (they/them) is a wizard rock historian and notorious nomad. When not writing sad songs about books, they run @wix_rock on Twitter and organize the annual Wizard Rock Sampler. Grace also designs board games, makes nerdy candles and soaps for Trolley Witches, and reads... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Though the nature of many of the beasts that inhabit the Wizarding World is unknown, many of these magical species have been documented through the groundbreaking research performed by Newt Scamander, magizoologist and author of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In this comprehensive talk, a biological survey of these species will be presented. Also included will be a survey of some of the magical plants as described by famed herbologist Phyllida Spore and authors like Miranda Goshawk.
Jason J. Crean is a biologist, consultant, and educator at Saint Xavier University. Awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, American Association for the Advancement of Science Leadership in Science Education Prize, and National Science Teachers Association... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Join Professor Violetta Craftswick for a fun session of magical crafting! Using ordinary muggle items, she will show you how to transform them into 6+ Magical SWAPs, which are small handmade items that you can keep, gift, or trade with new or old friends here at MISTI-Con! SWAPs are fantastic momentos/keepsakes of a magical time you will want to remember!
Professor Violetta Craftswick regularly teaches Magical Crafting at Eaglesclaw School of Magic in New Bedford, MA. Aka Dariti Peterson, founder of WOrM Scouts, she enjoys sharing her crafting prowess with magical students of all ages, and can't wait to craft with you!
Saturday July 20, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
In this workshop, writer and editor Cecilia Tan will show you how to use tarot cards as a tool for beating writers block and creating rich fictional stories. Creating three-dimensional characters who feel real and who tug on the reader's heart strings and writing your way out of corners are greatly helped by unlocking your subconscious, which the Tarot is uniquely suited to do for storytellers.
Cecilia Tan is the award-winning author of over 25 novels including the Magic University series, and the editor of over 100 anthologies of short stories. Her fiction has appeared in Asimov's, Ms. Magazine, Strange Horizons, and many other places. Keep up with her at ceciliatan.com... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
One of the unique characteristics of the Harry Potter book series is the way in which the author "grew" the books along with the main characters. As the series progressed the books were longer in page count and the "reading level" or difficulty also increased, making the series an excellent teaching tool. The books also became "darker," and the implications of these transitions will be discussed in the context of children's literature and psychology.
Vicky McKinley is a Professor of Biology, and has taught scientific literacy and critical thinking among other topics. As a Harry Potter fan, she has been naturally drawn to analyzing the series through the lenses of education, critical thinking and statistics.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Dolores Umbridge believed she was better than others. Assuming the Head of the Muggle-born Registration Commission, she reveled in “pathological tribalism.” This emerges when tribes experience cognitive biases and a polarized environment. It was her job to put “those people” in their proper place: beneath Pure Bloods. What can we learn from Dolores? How do we justify “evil” in our lives to demonize other groups? In what ways do we nurture our own egos to maintain a sense of being “better” than those beneath us? Can we cast a spell of critical thinking to see beyond our own perspectives?
It is often stated in the Harry Potter series that there’s no place safer than Hogwarts. Is it because Dumbledore is the greatest wizard of all time or because Ministry security leaves something to be desired? Join us as we talk safety and security at the Ministry of Magic, Gringotts, Hogwarts, and other Wizarding institutions.
Why I Geek: Harry Potter is a collection of stories from fans talking about their experience with different aspects of the series and their own identity. Stories include: LGTBQIA+ identitiy, the experience of African-American fans, WROCK, fan-fiction, academic fandom and much much more. This is a book preview and discussion featuring co-editor Clay Dockery and several of the contributors.
Clay is the co-head organizer of MISTI-Con a Harry Potter fan convention, Editor in Cheif of Coal Hill Press, and Program & Education Director for the Interfaith Community a non-profit organization focused on helping families from different religious traditions authentically and respectfully... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Bring your wands, your screwdrivers. Park your TARDIS or your impala. And don't forget the address is 221B Baker Street. Come hang out and meetup with over fans. Cosplay is welcome.
Jodie Fox has been an active member of the convention scene since 2011 beginning with Aeternitas and Harry Potter fan since 2000. This is her second time combining her love of fandoms since Harry Potter was how she discovered Superwholock in the first place.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Vladimir Snape is a hoopy frood who knows where his towel is. He is also, some would say, the bravest man they've ever known, due to his indomitable spirit while battling stage four metastatic cancer. He has also been known to sing and play guitar.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Salon 1/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Herbology 101 informs the listener about the importance of herbs in both the Wizarding and Muggle Worlds. It will address the usage of herbs for magickal and medicinal purposes as well as a brief history of Herbology.
Susen James is an RN, and Professor of various Poetry and Literature courses at Columbia College - Chicago, including a class in Fantasy Literature - Harry Potter. Having studied herbs for many years, she is currently writing a book on the herbs in the Harry Potter septology titled... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Just what does it take to get a book into print? What different pathways are there from idea to page? Our Lit Track pros provide a look into the process of becoming a published author, start to finish.
Stephanie Guerdan works in editorial at HarperCollins Children’s Books, where she acquires and edits middle grade and teen. Some of the books she has worked on include the acclaimed debut We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia and the Soldier Dogs series. She likes queer fiction... Read More →
Cass Morris works as a writer and educator in central Virginia and occasionally moonlights as a bookseller in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She completed her Master of Letters at Mary Baldwin University in 2010, and she earned her undergraduate degree, a BA in English with a... Read More →
Lindsay Ribar is one-third of the writing team behind THE PROS OF CONS, along with Alison Cherry and Michelle Schusterman. As a solo author, her work includes the YA contemporary fantasy ROCKS FALL, EVERYONE DIES (Andre Norton award nomination), and the YA genie duology THE ART OF... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Crafting meetup! The 2017 ornament meetup was a hit so we are bringing in a new variety of Wizarding items for guests to make. They are $0-$2 and guests pay via the honor system to a box up front.
Michelle and Melissa (aka Fred and George) are MISTI vets and had such a great time with 2017's craft meetup, they are bringing it back! They both co-run HP fan clubs in Florida; Michelle:Tampa Bay Portkey to Magic and Melissa: Central Florida Slug Club!
Michelle and Melissa (aka Fred and George) are MISTI vets and had such a great time with 2017's craft meetup, they are bringing it back! They both co-run HP fan clubs in Florida; Michelle:Tampa Bay Portkey to Magic and Melissa: Central Florida Slug Club!
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Madam Malkin’s Consignment Shoppe is a chance to peruse a selection of the finest gently-used wizard gear. Come browse our racks and tables of magical items, all looking for a new life with you. Clothes make the mage, after all! A portion of all sales will be donated to the MISTI 2021 start-up fund.
Bess Carnan works very hard to maintain her “good fan” cred within the Harry Potter fandom. This includes owning a lot of Ravenclaw gear and getting very stressed during HP trivia games. She loves Madam Malkin’s and is stoked to fill in while Madam Malkin the First is touring... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 2:30pm EDT
Salon 2Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Come visit our craft fair and Author's Alley in Salon 2/Multi-function area. You don't want to miss these goods! Featuring Felt-tastic Beasts and Where to Buy Them, Children's Corner, CraftsTrolley Witches , Redbird Embroidery Etc, Book & Badger, Once upon a CON-artist OrchardWorks Magic Wands, Ariel Birdoff, The Colorful Geek, The Chosen Wand, Moste Potente Potions, Lady Twilight's Artistic Creations, Tracy Goldfarb, The Wandcrafter, DaritiDesignsSnape: A Definitive Reading, Misti-con, Cecilia tan, D. R. Perry
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 4:00pm EDT
Salon 2Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
I will share "The Wizards' Ancient Secret" and other knowledge that will allow wizards, witches and muggles alike to save our planet using the magic already in our hands. This a magic show for all ages. www.cyrilthesorcerer.com
Cyril John "CJ" May is an environmental magician and sustainability professional. He uses enviromagic shows to entertain, educate and empower audiences on topics of recycling, energy, climate change and water.
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT
Salon 1/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
oin The Kitchen Witch, Jenn Wotchertonks, and create festive sorting surprise cookies to break open or bite into to discover which Hogwarts house you will be sorted into. Fee $5.00
Scene karaoke is a chance for the non-singers out there to really get into the fun of performing. Select scenes from the Harry Potter films will be modified to remove one character's dialogue. While the scene is playing on the screen, a performer will take the place of that character. Be prepared to deliver your best rendition of one of Dumbledore's speeches, Professor Snape's rants, or He Who Should Not Be Named's monologues.
How does Arthurian legend and the monarchy/knights of Europe connect to the noble family of the Weasley's? Come along on the quest to find out how Arthur Weasley is the legend King of the Britons through connections with stories of the past.
Originally from the UK, Cheryl now resides in NYC working with adults with disabilities. A massive Harry Potter fan with a love for all things British, Cheryl loves to research mythological stories that connect to the work of Harry Potter
Create your own wizarding poetry using the unique form of Blackout Poetry! We will use pages from cannon to create poetry inspired by the wizarding world. This version of found poetry allows anyone to create a unique piece of art.
I discovered Harry Potter while babysitting my next-door neighbors and haven't looked back since. I am a high school English Language Arts teacher teaching in Brooklyn and spreading the love of magic.
Saturday July 20, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Lindsay Ribar, author of The Pros of Cons, The Art of Wishing, and Rocks Fall, Everyone Dies, and Cass Morris, author of From Unseen Fire, will read selections from their current or upcoming books and will answer questions from the audience.
Join or watch a collaborative storytelling experience, completely improvised, featuring 4-6 players and the Dungeon Master. D&D is a tabletop role-playing game where the DM serves as narrator and referee and presents the adventurers with a dilemma, puzzle, or conflict to solve using creative problem-solving, magic, and sometimes brute force. Spells have been adapted to resemble familiar Harry Potter-based magic. There will be humor, there will be monsters. Naturally, there will be dice.
Kitty writes stories and screenplays, and DMs a short list of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition campaigns. She has made the objective of her stories the compulsion of ordinary people to do extraordinary things. A Gryffindor with a heavy Slytherin streak, she has spent fourteen years... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
In Fantastic Beasts, rescuing a trafficked Thunderbird launches an introverted zoologist and his case of endangered Graphorns into a complex wizarding world war. Newt Scamander is fictional, but the movies deal with real animal issues: rescuing from poor conditions, rehabilitating the injured, and ensuring they aren’t lost forever. Join Melissa Aaron, bestiary scholar, and Jason Crean, magizoologist, as they discuss the textbook, the films, and the science of welfare and genetically diverse populations.
This presentation explores the possible economic structure of the wizarding world. Topics will include pre- International Statute of Secrecy Britain, wizard banking, and the economics of buying and selling magical goods. This presentation will go over the basics of economics, so no prior understanding is required. Input and feedback is encouraged.
Es holds a Master of Business Economics and is currently an Economist with the Ontario Government. Her professional passions lie at the intersection of social welfare and business prosperity. In her private life she enjoys unhealthy levels of obsession for English history, baked goods... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
You've had this idea in your head for a while - a costume; a craft; something artistic. You want to make it, but you don't know where to start. Or perhaps you've got it all planned out, but haven't taken the plunge to act on your creativity. Friend, you are not alone; launching an original project is daunting! Step off the ledge and tap into your creativity with me as we explore the productive process.
Niamh Augurey has been to six HP cons since 2005, and has attended every MISTI since its inception. They avidly enjoy cosplaying, crafting of any type, and asserts some skill at singing, outdoor survivalism, and photography. Ni is an ardent geek, devoted to additional fandoms such... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
#WizardTeam is a weekly Harry Potter podcast for true Potterheads. Each week Bayana Davis and Robyn Jordan do a close reread of the books chapter-by-chapter, discussing anything from our thoughts on the Trio’s Gryffindor behaviors to more obscure facts in the Harry Potter canon, even coming up with some strange and hilarious headcanons of our own. Start from the very beginning or join us in our current book, just beware: there are spoilers.
What do book editors do? What do they look for when they’re acquiring new books? What pathways are there into the editorial side of the publishing industry? Here’s your chance to get all your questions answered! Join HarperCollins editor Stephanie Guerdan for this AMA.
Stephanie Guerdan works in editorial at HarperCollins Children’s Books, where she acquires and edits middle grade and teen. Some of the books she has worked on include the acclaimed debut We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia and the Soldier Dogs series. She likes queer fiction... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Rouge O’Malley and Saber Tompson have known each other for almost a decade. And during that time they’ve put together many EPIC fandom and theme parties. Come and listen as they regale you with tales of parties past, share with you their ideas for parties future, and give you tips and tricks for your parties in the present.
Roundtable: MISTI-Con invites all attendees with fanficcing experience to come chat about it -- and how it has changed over the years! Fandoms and OTPs may come and go, but a love of derivative fiction is forever. Whether you started on AO3, LJ, FFN, AOL message boards, or alt. email lists, come chat about your experiences in the fanfic world.
Cass Morris works as a writer and educator in central Virginia and occasionally moonlights as a bookseller in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She completed her Master of Letters at Mary Baldwin University in 2010, and she earned her undergraduate degree, a BA in English with a... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Meet-up for mature witches and wizards of "a certain age" to connect and reconnect. This gathering is for witches and wizards who are middle-age and older. If you came to last Misti's informal WOACA, please join us again! If you missed it or are new to Misti, come and meet like-aged witches and wizards to bond and share stories.
Jo Cobleigh started reading Harry Potter when her son was young to "see what all the fuss was about." She devoured books one and two and waited at the door for every book and movie release from that point on. She has been to the last three Mistis and you may have seen her in her Wizengamot... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Are you the wittiest Ravenclaw, the smartest Hufflepuff, the shrewdest Slytherin, or the most intelligent Gryffindor? Then, as Lucius Malfoy would ask, why don't you prove it? Bring your team of four to MuggleNet's most challenging trivia tournament to determine once and for all who among you will never require a Remembrall.
Have you always wanted to dance, but never knew how? Do you find yourself being a wallflower at Yule Balls? "The Art of Wizard Dance" is a ballroom dance class for absolute beginners, where Bellatrix Lestrange will teach you how to dance to the hit wizard rock song "Rodolphus."
Irvin (“hpboy13” online) has been a prolific member of HP fandom since 2003, and identifies as Ravenpuff. He is the author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. He is MuggleNet’s controversial columnist, over at The Three Broomsticks. He is the Dark... Read More →
Saturday July 20, 2019 5:15pm - 6:30pm EDT
Multifunction HallDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Come one and come all: Travel back in time to the Founders’ Ball!
As the Hogwarts Express takes the students on their journey to Hogwarts, on Saturday evening at 8:00 pm, our guests will head back to the time of the Founders. Our Grand Ballroom will transform into an elegant homage to the Hogwarts founders.
Saturday July 20, 2019 8:00pm - Sunday July 21, 2019 12:00am EDT
Grand BallroomDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Want to meet up with other Christian Potter fans? Like going to Sunday services but don’t want to leave the con? Let’s get together for an informal, costume-friendly, all-are-welcome praise and worship service on Sunday morning!
David Martin is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is a retired computer programmer. He has been following Harry Potter since 1999 and has made presentations at several conventions. He is proud to be a Hufflepuff and wishes that Hermione had ended up with him rather than with... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Come out to the MISTI-Con table to share your Harry Potter and MISTI-CON stories, thoughts, feelings and adventures in our online VLOG. Interviews will be compiled and shared each morning and eventually put together as a video diary at the end of the convention.
Originally intended as a place to showcase cosplay photos of founder, creative director and entertainer, Lawrence Neals (and like minded fanboys, fangirls and friends), GeekLifeRules has evolved into geek themed cosplay, entertainment and event hosting, having hosted panels and participated... Read More →
Both NYC itself and its surrounding suburbs are home to all kinds of mystery and magic. We will provide some interesting details about ghosts and mediums, witches and mystics, fairy tales and folklore from the city to the area around this convention.
Jon Rosenthal is the Head Organizer of the NYC HP Meetup. He is also one of the co-founders of MISTI-Con and was a member of the org team for many events including Aeternitas and both NYC Wizard Rock Festivals. In his muggle life he is an IT Consultant and cat dad.
dyAnne Irby is an Assistant Organizer for NYC's The Group That Shall Not Be Named. She has studied the psychic and medium arts. She is a certified Angel Card Reader, and a Licensed Massage Therapist. Her favourite colour is purple and she plays the sousaphone.
Margaret Walchak is an assistant Organizer for the NYC HP Meetup. She is also active in a number of peer organizations in her muggle nursing life. A geeky nerd with a love of many fandoms, Margaret is proud to have attended Nimbus 2003, the very first Harry Potter literary fan co... Read More →
How well do you know Snape? Come for three rounds of trivia about the mysterious man himself! A kid-friendly event, run by kids (ages 11 and 15) and open to everybody. Correct answers could win you something from the trolley!
D. R. Perry, author of Providence Paranormal College, A Change In Crime, Wiser Guy, and Be Counted, and Irvin Khaytman, author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, will read selections from their current or upcoming books and will answer questions from the audience.
D.R. Perry writes fun Young Adult Paranormal, tongue-in-cheek Urban Fantasy, noir Alternate History, and soon, witchy Cozy Mysteries with cute magical critters. She lives with her husband, child, and dog in Rhode Island where all her books are set. Although she's not a native New... Read More →
Irvin (“hpboy13” online) has been a prolific member of HP fandom since 2003, and identifies as Ravenpuff. He is the author of The Life and Lies of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. He is MuggleNet’s controversial columnist, over at The Three Broomsticks. He is the Dark... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Mingle and socialize with the authors of the MISTI-Con 2019 Fanfiction Collection and with other fanfiction enthusiasts! We will have an informal group discussion about how authors and readers engage with transformative works. Then, we'll enjoy live readings of excerpts from the collection. This meet-up is open to all. There will be a separate adults-only fanfic meet-up at another time.
Dariti Peterson, a scouting volunteer for 17+ years, combined her love of the magical world of Harry Potter, and scouting to found the World Organization of Magical Scouts (WOrMS) in 2015 with her first troop of 7 members. WOrM Scouts continues to gain members, and new badges and... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
What do Harry Potter and Dracula have in common? More than you might think! For the darker elements of the series, J.K. Rowling draws on a literary movement of the 18th and 19th centuries known as the Gothic. Join Julia O'Connell, writer of the blog The Gothic Library, in taking an in-depth look at the Gothic influences on Harry Potter, from The Castle of Otranto to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Julia O'Connell combines her love of the literary and the macabre with her book blog, www.TheGothicLibrary.com. Follow The Gothic Library for weekly discussions of the Gothic literary movement and reviews of contemporary novels in related genres.
Sunday July 21, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
JK Rowling touched on both poisons and protections in the Harry Potter books and films. Learn about herbs as poisons - a history and folklore of poison plants, what they look like and a few diabolical poisonings. We'll discuss the poison garden, who cultivates poisonous plants today and why they are important. In folklore, herbs also have magical protective properties. Hear about them and make your own protective herbal amulet.
Lynne Allison is a native Kansan currently living in rural Iowa. She has a degree in biology from Kansas State and has worked in pharmacy, veterinary virology and surgical technology. A lifelong gardener, since retiring Lynne has pursued a more in-depth study of herbs and their medicinal... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Salon 4Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
The wider and more expensive the fandom becomes, the more lines of discussion we have to debate. In this highly structured panel, individuals will sign up in advance to participate in head-head debates on the fandom most contentious topics. Through three rounds, six debates in total, one wizard with the most audience support will advance. The final will crown one debater the ultimate champion, and a prize shall be awarded. Are you tough enough to take on the wizarding world’s most hotly contested topics?
The Harry Potter franchise has capitalized off of their wide fan-base, creating merchandise, video games, new book covers, and of course Pottermore and the Extended Canon. Fans disenchanted with the content coming out of the Wizarding World discuss navigating this merchandising Renaissance while staying true to their fandom experience.
Abby Ritter is a wizard rocker (and a Hufflepuff) from Worcester, MA. She makes nerdy music about Harry Potter and being queer, and her single "It's Intersectional" can be found at wizardrock.bandcamp.com. When she's not at a convention, Abby can be found working as a board-certified... Read More →
On Ron's 17th birthday in "Prince" he received a book - "Twelve Fail-Safe Ways to Charm Witches" - which he later told Harry "explains everything you need to know about girls." By the end of “Hallows” Ron has won Hermione's love, so maybe that book had some good advice. This humorous presentation speculates on what that book might have said. Perhaps that advice might help us other clueless males.
David Martin is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is a retired computer programmer. He has been following Harry Potter since 1999 and has made presentations at several conventions. He is proud to be a Hufflepuff and wishes that Hermione had ended up with him rather than with... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Learn and play some Harry Potter board games! Our friendly professors will teach you how to play in a fun and welcoming environment. Some games will be familiar and others will be brand spanking new! All of them will be fun. We will have lots of games to choose from, but feel free to bring your favorite Harry Potter game too.
Mike Belsole (he/him) is a retired wizard rocker and Thornsaddle writer. He is also a proud alumnus of the New York Badassilisks community quidditch team. In his retirement, he has enjoyed whiling away the hours designing board games. Please play games with him.
Dylan Kennedy Grey is a Ravenclaw, game designer, husband, pet parent, and nearly-life-long fan of magical literature. In the mundane world, Dylan works as a therapeutic day treatment counselor and runs an after school theatre program with his wife for underserved youth in their home... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Common RoomDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Let's meet up and chat about LEGO. What's your latest build? What do you do with your LEGO? What would you own if you could own it? If you were a Master Builder for a Harry Potter LEGO set, what would it be and why? What HP build can you make with generic LEGO pieces? Bring photos of your favourite LEGO builds to share with the group, and your creative spirit.
Jill is a long-time MISTI attendee who loves quidditch, Harry Potter, project managenent, and lots of other geeky things. Her muggle job is as an archivist in Alberta, Canada. She is a Volunteer Coordinator for MISTI-Con.
Sunday July 21, 2019 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Plaza A/BDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
What is more exciting in fic than a good adversarial ship? Whether you are into Harry/Draco or Hermione/Pansy, or ships in other fandoms like Tony/Steve in the MCU or Sherlock/Moriarty, the thrill of the love/hate relationship, or that of enemies to friends to lovers is always a good time. Come join us to talk about why we love to watch them fight and then..make up. The focus will be on slash, but het readers are also welcome.
Kristin is a psychotherapist and lactation consultant in private practice in NJ. She is the mother of two boys-- a third year Gryffindor and a soon to be sorted Slytherin. She is a avid fanfic reader and fangirl who is writing a book on parenting and House traits. She is an anti racist... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Salon 5Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Pin. Button. Brad. Brooch. Lapel pin. Stick pin. Flair. Badge. Whatever you call them, you can't stop at just one. Join us for a brief meetup to swap and chat about our favorite geeky designs or just to show off your collection of assorted bling. Enamel, metal, paper, plastic; antique or made this year, all kinda of buttons! Swapping is optional and solely the responsibility of parties involved.
Niamh Augurey has been to six HP cons since 2005, and has attended every MISTI since its inception. They avidly enjoy cosplaying, crafting of any type, and asserts some skill at singing, outdoor survivalism, and photography. Ni is an ardent geek, devoted to additional fandoms such... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Plaza 1/2/3Doubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
This will be the final meet up for WOrM Scouts at MISTI-Con 2019. Scouts will exchange stories of adventures at the con, and talk about what we’d like to do at future meet-ups. We will also have a nice awards ceremony to present badges and awards that have been earned before we say farewell until next time.
Dariti Peterson, a scouting volunteer for 17+ years, combined her love of the magical world of Harry Potter, and scouting to found the World Organization of Magical Scouts (WOrMS) in 2015 with her first troop of 7 members. WOrM Scouts continues to gain members, and new badges and... Read More →
Sunday July 21, 2019 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Hudson B/CDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Get decked out in your favorite cosplay for a night of music, magic and fun before MISTI 2019 becomes one with the ages for a special edition of GeekLifeRules: NY Cosplay Cabaret salute to Pottermania. Featuring some of your fellow attendees, a cast brought in from NYC and hosted by Lawrence Neals and Special Guest Host Kate Hoover.
Sunday July 21, 2019 7:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Grand BallroomDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown
Mike Belsole (he/him) is a retired wizard rocker and Thornsaddle writer. He is also a proud alumnus of the New York Badassilisks community quidditch team. In his retirement, he has enjoyed whiling away the hours designing board games. Please play games with him.
Sunday July 21, 2019 10:00pm - Monday July 22, 2019 1:00am EDT
Common RoomDoubletree by Hilton at Tarrytown