Tuscarawas County library system seeks vendors for second annual Fan Fest

A celebration of fandoms, geek culture and cosplay

Cosplay is a performance art where participants wear costumes and accessories to embody specific characters from anime, manga, video games, movies and comics.

File

Published February 16, 2026 - 7:20 a.m.

The Tuscarawas County Public Library System is seeking vendors for its second annual Fan Fest, a celebration of fandoms, geek culture and cosplay.

“The type of vendors we are looking for are those who make and sell geeky curiosities across all fandoms and genres,” said Maeggie Dotts, public service associate.

In 2025, the first-time event at the Main Library drew more than 100 attendees and featured a variety of participants in the signature cosplay contest. The event also included a ramen-eating contest, cosplayer presentations, vendors and a boba tea truck with Boba Bowl.

Fan Fest is set for Saturday, Aug. 1, with plans to expand the program to include more attractions.

Interested vendors can call 330-364-4474, ext. 225, or email tcplevents@tusclibrary.org.

Runners in Santa hats and holiday costumes compete on a paved road surrounded by trees.

Stink Stank Stunk 5K set in Bolivar

Proceeds will benefit Project Grinch Dust, a local organization that supports families in need with back-to-school clothing, shoes, backpacks, supplies and Christmas gifts

Sandy Valley names Balderson principal

Balderson currently serves as the district’s athletic director and assistant principal

Dover discusses summer projects and events

Design work has begun on replacing and upgrading the existing bocce courts

Tuscarawas commissioners question election board over bonuses, hiring

At the meeting Monday, commissioners asked how the payments were allocated and who came up with the decision on who would be paid what amount

View Community Calendar

Find us on Facebook

Tuscarawas County Bargain Hunter

THE LATEST

Local

EODA meeting in Walnut Creek urges regional push for growth

At its annual meeting in Walnut Creek, Eastern Ohio leaders highlighted collaboration, state investment and new job creation across Appalachian counties

Farm Bureau holds data center discussion in Scio

Attendees seeking details on proposed locations and plans received little specific information

A stone monument rises in a park beside trees, a building, and American flags on a cloudy day.

Civil War monument to be restored in New Philadelphia

The work being done by the city of New Philadelphia is being paid for with a grant from the Appalachian Community Grant Program

Books, an apple, and stationery on a desk with a chalkboard.

Tusky Valley board approves track resurfacing, curriculum purchase

During public participation, Alicia Hall addressed the board regarding school funding

First-time candidate Kirtley wins Democratic nomination

According to unofficial totals from the Ohio Secretary State’s office, Kirtley received 12,264 votes, or 31.5% of the total

Fontana secures Democratic nomination for Ohio House District 51

Her campaign focuses on lowering everyday costs, fully funding public education and providing property tax relief

Man standing and speaking in a conference room with attendees seated at tables and a presentation screen visible.

New Philadelphia officials hear airport hangar proposal

Many of the hangars at Harry Clever Field were built in the 1940s and 1950s and are too small to accommodate modern aircraft

Sports

Area softball teams advance in postseason play

The softball postseason began during the week of May 11, and several area schools remained alive entering last week’s action.

Runners race on a track beside bleachers filled with spectators at an outdoor stadium.

Tusky Valley girls, Indian Valley boys win IVC titles

Indian Valley’s boys prevented the Trojans from completing a sweep

Player with basketball in a game setting.

Alyssa Miller earns Outstanding Senior Athlete Award

Miller becomes the 13th women’s basketball player to earn the honor

Tuscarawas County Sports Hall of Fame to induct Class of 2026

The Tuscarawas County Sports Hall of Fame will induct its Class of 2026 June 20 at Buckeye Career Center

Close-up of a hand holding a baseball near a person’s waistband.

Area teams earn top seeds in baseball tournament draw

The district final is scheduled for May 28 at a site to be determined

Around Town

Zoar, Fort Laurens offer America 250 tours

The tours will explore the history of the canal and its impact on commerce, travel and daily life in the 19th century

Library system offers free summer camps

Camps will focus on dinosaurs, earth science, art, food and games at library locations across the system

Person holding a handmade quilt with a colorful design.

Tusky Valley Ruritan honors school employees

A quilt made by club member Russell Dean will be raffled at the Bolivar Strawberry Festival

Crowd walking past market stalls and tents on a street with buildings and trees in the background.

All aboard for the Dennison Railroad Festival

Trains are more central to the Dennison Railroad Festival this year when the festival returns May 28-30 in downtown Dennison

Child wearing a green cap reads an open book beside a blue swimming pool.

Dover library to launch summer reading program

Kick off summer with a celebration at the Dover City Pool

Community Spotlight

Baby wrapped in a striped blanket resting in a patterned infant seat.

TuscBDD shares inspiring journey of Early Intervention member

Her next steps will include working with Early Intervention Developmental Specialist Carie Kline to continue meeting developmental milestones and life-stage goals

Aultman College announces Dean’s List

Students are recognized for their academic achievements and dedication throughout the semester

West Union Church to hold bake sale fundraiser

West Union Women's Fellowship is geared up for summer bake sales at Mako's Market and Pharmacy

Three people on stage holding a framed certificate and an award plaque at a recognition ceremony.

Leadership Tuscarawas honors Campbell

The Leadership Tuscarawas Alumni Award of Excellence honors graduates who demonstrate leadership, civic involvement and service throughout Tuscarawas County and beyond