Icons resident staffer Mike Cucinotta recently noted that there's certainly no shortage of classic and revered horror films showing this October.  Well, genre fans who travel the convention circuit will not be left wanting this Halloween weekend, as three conventions hit different parts of the map, each bringing its distinct flavor.

Chiller Theatre:  This twice-yearly mega-event brings a number of faces to Parsippany, NJ.  The convention boasts mainstream stars such as Ann-Margret, Mickey Rooney and Monkey Davy Jones;  convention stalwarts the likes of Kane Hodder, Brinke Stevens and NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD's Bill Hinzman;  and a few genre rarities such as Lance Guest and Catherine Mary Stewart of NIGHT OF THE CREEPS.  Because of the recent downturn in the economy, Chiller has downsized this Halloween's show.  But I can personally attest:  I've been to every Chiller for 5 1/2 years, and I've never been disappointed.  Look forward to a show with a little bit of something for everybody.

The Living Dead Festival:  If you're more in the mood for the undead, and you plan on being in the Pittsburgh, PA area for All Hallow's Eve, then Gary Streiner has put together a show for you.  The LDF celebrates the 42nd anniversary of NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, with the first-ever convention appearance of Judith Ridley, as well as a Streiner family reunion, as brother Russ and their mother join on the ghoulish fun.  The festivities conclude Saturday night with an outdoor showing of the film that inspired it all.  The LDF is a dream for fans of NIGHT that only Gary can provide.  I'm so impressed that I'll be attending both Chiller and Gary's show.

Fangoria's Trinity of Terror:  If I could stretch my endurance and bank account, I'd be sure to attend the Trinity of Terror, hosted by fellow website/horror magazing Fangoria.  Las Vegas will be swinging with horror films and celebrities.  The festival will include live music from Slipknot and a showing of George A. Romero's new zombie chapter, SURVIVAL OF THE DEAD.  There are far too many guests to list, but the headliners will be Malcolm McDowell, Romero, Roger Corman and... John Waters.  Remember, what happens at a horror convention in Vegas...

 Add in the upcoming Rock and Shock in Worcester, MA in two weeks, and genre fans across the map will have plenty of opportunities to meet their favorite horror celebrities.  So for lovers of film, conventions and heavy metal, there's a little bit of something for everyone this October.

 For information on each convention, click on the individual links.