(NEWS) SALT CITY PARACON Brings Big Fears For It’s 1st Year

Courtesy of Salt City Paracon

Having spent over 30 years in Utah, I've witnessed its share of unexplained events and paranormal experiences. The Beehive State is known for ghostly tales in historic buildings and eerie stories from old mining towns, attracting paranormal enthusiasts. Whether you're a believer or simply intrigued by mysterious stories, Utah offers plenty to explore, making the first Salt City Paracon welcome addition to its horror and paranormal scene.

Recently I had the opportunity to attend this event one of the days it was available, and it didn't take long to realize that this convention wasn't trying to be the biggest paranormal event around. It was focused on creating an experience where attendees could connect with guests, vendors, and fellow believers without fighting through overwhelming crowds. That smaller, more intimate atmosphere turned out to be one of the convention's biggest strengths. It was quite the intimate and spooky setting that really felt that it will have a lot of big things to offer next year.

One of the highlights of the day was seeing Jay Wasley, whom longtime listeners of my podcast, I Love Horror may recognize from my previous episode with him. It was great catching up with the Ghost Adventures investigator and for the first time being able to meet one of my podcast guests in person. Joining him was fellow Ghost Adventures investigator Aaron Goodwin, whose humor and laid-back personality made him a crowd favorite. Seeing and hearing about people’s experience with them reminded everyone why they've remained such beloved figures in the paranormal world.

Of course, no convention is complete without a vendor floor worth exploring, and Salt City Paracon delivered. Artists like Kookie the Clown, Claudio Bergamin, and Kasten Entertainment (to name a few among the many there) showcased everything from eerie prints and handcrafted collectibles to beautifully detailed horror-inspired creations that begged to come home with attendees. The Western Paranormal Society and Get Out Paranormal AZ where just a couple of vendors offering local paranormal investigators the chance to browse ghost-hunting equipment ranging from beginner-friendly gadgets. Even some more advanced investigative tools for those eager to conduct their own late-night explorations. I made several laps around the venue and each time felt like I was discovering something new (as well as mentally spending money in my head for all the amazing stuff I wanted).

One of the more enjoyable surprises was seeing local haunted attractions like Castle of Chaos represented throughout the event. They not only offered information about their upcoming haunts but also sold some great practical effects keychains made to look like eyes, ears and more that they made. This and other haunted attractions there showcased their upcoming seasons, giving visitors an early taste of the scares waiting for them later this year. It was a fantastic way to spotlight local attractions while helping horror fans plan their Halloween adventures months in advance. Even Black Bumble Tattoo was there to not only represent the amazing tattoo skills they offer, but some cool home made odditites.

If creepy curiosities are more your speed, they had a handful of great oddities vendors that certainly didn't disappoint. Unique taxidermy pieces, unusual collectibles, strange artwork, and conversation-starting displays made these booths impossible to simply walk past. Whether you left with a purchase or just a few unforgettable photos, they added another layer of personality to the convention floor. I walked out with a great Candyman artwork piece that will be on my wall in my podcast studio.

Thanks to the venue's cozy size, the panel discussions felt less like large convention presentations and more like conversations among friends who all happened to share a fascination with the paranormal. That intimacy allowed guests to tell stories, answer questions, and interact with audiences in a way that's often lost at larger conventions. There were a lot of great guest speakers including both Ghost Adventures hosts, Danielle Nicole, John Olsen, Mini Medium, Brian Higgins, and many more that provided many worthwhile talks that any fan of the paranormal world would enjoy. This event’s panels created an atmosphere where everyone felt like part of the discussion rather than just another face in the crowd.

Even between browsing vendors and attending panels, there was no shortage of reasons to stick around. A selection of food trucks outside like The Haunted Wagon, Drip Tacos, Crazy Chicken Lemonade, Witches Brew Coffee Co., and many others that were great to see there. They provided everything attendees needed to recharge before diving back into another ghost story, shopping trip, or celebrity encounter. It's a small detail that made a big difference, helping turn the event into a full-day experience rather than simply convention. I personally had an amazing sandwich from The Haunted Wagon. Even the owner of the food truck provided a memorable experience where he asked for my trust while he choose the perfect sandwich for me and I am so glad I trusted him because it was one of the best meals I’ve had from a food truck.

For a first-year event, Salt City Paracon made an impressive debut. It successfully blended paranormal investigation, horror culture, local businesses, talented artists, and passionate fans into a welcoming environment that never felt overwhelming. While larger conventions certainly have their place, there's something refreshingly personal about an event where conversations happen naturally, guests feel approachable, and every corner offers another interesting discovery.

If this inaugural year is any indication of what's to come, Salt City Paracon has already carved out a place on Utah's paranormal calendar. Here's hoping the spirits decide to stick around, because this is one haunting I'd happily revisit.

Whether it’s slashers in the woods, ghosts in the attic, or killers in the cornfield, ILHM Reviews brings you the frightful horror flick recommendations worth watching. Follow us on Instagram, be sure to listen to the"I Love Horror" podcast and remember that if you’re a true fan of horror, every night can be a FRIGHT NIGHT!