It's creepy and it's spooky — and it's coming to San Antonio's Henry B. González Convention Center for the first time: The Oddities and Curiosities Expo, a nationally traveling show that revels in all things macabre, will lurk in San Antonio on August 2-3.
Oklahomans Michelle and Tony Cozzaglio founded the touring expo as a way to showcase entrepreneurs who focus on the darker side of decor. Curiosity seekers can expect to find taxidermy, horror-themed artwork, funeral collectibles, preserved insects, and other objects unlikely to be featured in Better Homes and Gardens.
"We created this expo to give odd small businesses and artists a space where they can thrive," said Michelle in a release. "Our goal is to build a community where people feel safe to be themselves, surrounded by like-minded folks who appreciate the weird and wonderful."
Guests who aren't afraid of hands-on learning can even make their own jackalope mount during a day-long class. Those less inclined to work with fur can handle spiders or beetles during an insect pinning session. All species are sourced ethically and died of natural causes.
The Oddities and Curiosities Expo isn't just a shopping experience. The Cozzaglios have curated a variety of booths with tarot readings and photo opportunities. A sideshow troupe will keep attendees entertained when credit cards need a break.
"Our success comes from working with the best exhibitors in the world and curating every event to deliver exactly what our attendees want to see," Michelle added. "We're always looking for ways to evolve and make the experience even better for both our exhibitors and our guests."
Tickets to the one-of-a-kind event are available online for $14 and $15 at the door. Individual classes are priced from $150-$225 but include all tools and materials. Although the expo does offer free admission for children ages 12 and under, it cautions parents to use discretion. Not every kid can be Wednesday Addams, but cosplay is still encouraged.