Friday was the start of Pantheacon, the only annual pagan convention in the western US (and probably the biggest indoor Pagan convention in America). Some of the presenters this year will be Anne Hill, Christopher Penczak, Diana L Paxson, and Erynn Laurie, amongst many others (click here for a full list). Its a bit too early for full reports back, but a few bloggers have posted some early impressions.

Deirdre Moen discusses the Dionysus/Jim Morrison Ritual she attended.

“However, I wasn’t really prepared for the concept, which is quite possibly just simply because I was tired and hadn’t really thought it through — it really was a Doors dance, with bits of ritual thrown in. It would have been more fun if I hadn’t come in so sleep-deprived from the last few days of work, but was still really enjoyable.”

Brenda Daverin posts some notes from the field.

“Hurrah for pretty, gay gods of syncretism (Antinous, if you need to look him up), and here’s to sacred harlots, Brazilian rhythms and one heck of a turnout. Not to mention well-rehearsed songs in the round.”

Meanwhile, Deborah Oak spends some time in the natural world before heading to less nature-friendly environs of the hotel convention.

“In a few hours I will make my way down to Pantheacon, to the Doubletree Hotel that invokes not a whit of treeness or love of the green world. It will be filled with witches, some which are dear and beloved friends, all committed to the worship of this green spinning globe, this beautiful world. I’m so glad I’ve been in it all morning. It truly is sacred. And smells good, too.”

Anne Hill’s pre-con preparation thoughts are also well worth the read.

“I was telling a friend yesterday who will be coming to PantheaCon this year for the first time that it’s a lot like Disneyland: you really must go at least once in your life. You won’t need acid to feel like you’re tripping, though I’m sure there’s some there you could find. And provided you have one or two things that can keep you sane amidst all the crowds, you are sure to learn something, meet up with someone truly inspiring, or gain a bit of insight you wouldn’t have otherwise. In that sense, there is no preparing for the con, you just have to pack a lunch and dive right in. If you do come, stop by and say hello. I’ll be the happy one in the comfy clothes.”

Finally, you can see pictures from Saturday’s Papal Inauguration Ritual & Robert Anton Wilson Memorial at Pantheacon, courtesy of Fox “metaphorge” Magrathea.

Papal Inauguration participants in their pope-hats.
Photo by Fox “metaphorge” Magrathea (cc).

I’m sure Robert Anton Wilson would be proud! If people post some good recaps of the event, I’ll do another entry on the convention later this week. I hope everyone there had a fun (and safe) weekend.

Tags: Paganism, Pantheacon