Pokémon takes centre stage as County of Brant Library celebrates fourth annual FanFest
Casandra Turnbull
Managing Editor
Pokémon fans of all ages are invited to catch a full day of fun as the County of Brant Public Library celebrates its fourth annual FanFest on Saturday, Nov. 14, with a special tribute to one of the world's most recognizable entertainment franchises.
Taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Paris branch, located at 12 William St., this year's event will celebrate 30 years of Pokémon, bringing together generations of fans through themed activities, interactive workshops, games and opportunities to learn more about the franchise's history and popular trading cards.
Emma Johnston, the library's co-ordinator of community inclusion, said FanFest has become an annual opportunity to celebrate the many interests that bring people together.
"FanFest is celebrating it's 4th year this year! We've covered a wide range of themes focusing on anything that people might be a 'fan' of!" Johnston said.
Previous celebrations have featured Canadian comic book superhero Captain Canuck, pop culture and, most recently, the paranormal. Last year's ghost-themed event included tours around town and a presentation highlighting findings from a ghost investigation at the library's Paris branch.
"Each year is unique, fun and a full day of themed programs, activities, workshops and more!" Johnston said.
With Pokémon marking its 30th anniversary in 2026, organizers saw an opportunity to celebrate a franchise that continues to connect generations.
"We have adults who grew up on Pokemon and now their children are reading, watching and playing Pokemon too," Johnston said. "The games, shows, merchandise and cards have evolved and grown, along with the fan base over the past 3 decades and we wanted to celebrate that long history and have some fun!"
The festivities will begin at 10:30 a.m. with Pokémon Storytime, followed by PokéCraft and Play at 11 a.m. Both drop-in programs are designed for younger children and their families, offering a variety of Pokémon-inspired activities.
At 11:30 a.m., youth ages 11 to 16 can explore the PokéLab Teen Space, featuring hands-on activities in the library's Makerspace. Families are also welcome to participate.
A Pokémon Picnic will follow at 11:45 a.m. in the upstairs program room. Families and friends are encouraged to bring their own lunches and enjoy themed decorations, complimentary Pokémon-inspired snacks and interactive activities.
The afternoon will shift toward the history and evolution of the popular franchise, beginning at 1 p.m. with The Evolution of Pokémon workshop.
Led by Anna Overney, a Wilfrid Laurier University game design graduate, researcher and avid Pokémon player, the session will explore how Pokémon has changed over the decades, from its original Game Boy games to modern gaming experiences. The workshop is geared toward tweens, teens and adults.
At 2:15 p.m., attention will turn to one of Pokémon's most enduring attractions: its collectible trading cards.
Emily Goodwin of Dark Crystal Cards will lead Gotta Collect Them All! Pokémon TCG Collecting, an interactive session designed to help participants better understand the world of Pokémon card collecting.
The workshop will cover how to identify potentially valuable cards, properly store and preserve collections, evaluate trading opportunities and navigate the hobby.
Participants can drop in or register for the afternoon session, with opportunities to ask questions about collecting and trading.
To register for a session visit: https://brant-ca.libcal.com/event/4053563?more
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