First starting in 2019, BLERDFEST! will return April 1 to celebrate anime, comix, cosplay, sci-fi, gaming, horror and Black fans. The goal of the festival is to bring more attention to the Black experience in nerd culture.

This year’s theme is the “multiverse” and will feature special guest panels, video gaming tournaments, table gaming tournaments, cosplay demos & contests, writing and tech workshops for youth, a Kids’ Corner, a free photo booth, vendors, food trucks and more.

The festival is produced by the NOLA-based TRUE BLERD, in partnership with Mardi Gras Krewe Women of Wakanda and the IGL Foundation, a non-profit International Gaming League whose mission is to help children find opportunities through tech, gaming and digital arts.

The festival producers have combined decades of experience in education, gaming, law, tech, visual and performing arts and public art programming and have received numerous commissions, awards and commendations for their work in the arts, including Oscar-winning Hannah Beachler (Production Design, BLACK PANTHER, 2019), who is acting as Creative Consultant.

It will be Saturday, April 1 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will be located at McDonogh 35 High School (4000 Cadillac Street). All-Day Passes are $25 in advance for adults (18+), $15 for teens (13-17) and free for kids (12 & Under) with adult.

For tickets and more information on BLERDFEST!, visit this link.