The fifth annual Vermont Sci-Fi & Fantasy Expo returns to Essex Junction this weekend with a bang (and a BIFF and a POW). Nerds of all stripes don their hobbit trousers and Han Solo jackets for two days of panels, demonstrations, workshops and more. Attendees learn about 3D printing, the history of cosplay, women in genre fiction, and how to write and self-publish a novel. Special guests include veteran puppet maker and Jim Henson colleague Bill Diamond; charity cosplay group the Montreal X-Men; local heroes the 802 Ghostbusters; and the Star Wars-themed gaming club the Outer Rim Sabacc League. Allons-y!

Price: $5-30; free for kids under 6.