A Hidden Gem in the Hills of Virginia

This past Sunday, I found myself in Wyrhesville, Virginia, attending Wyvacon 13. Truth be told, I hadn’t heard much about it before. I wasn’t even sure how I stumbled across it—maybe an AI search for small conventions, maybe fate. Either way, I’m glad I did.

Now, Scaldcrow Games has a history with small events. Some of my favorite memories come from the tiniest cons—WhatTheHellCon springs to mind. I’ve done shows in haunted houses, Halloween stores, and even fields with folding tables. Back then, it was less about the crowd and more about the connection. If I could reach just one new gamer, spark their imagination, and invite them into a world of storytelling, then it was worth it.

So when I signed up for Wyvacon, I came with no expectations. I would’ve been happy with a few dozen folks and a couple of tables. What I found was something much more.

Wyvacon 13 was held in a beautiful community center—clean, spacious, and welcoming. Parking was easy, the vendor space filled up quickly, and the organizers had even set up a refreshment room with coffee and snacks for guests and vendors alike. That kind of hospitality goes a long way.

I arrived early and had the chance to meet some of the other creatives—writers, artists, and professionals. It’s always a treat to shake hands with folks I would’ve admired as a kid. Speaking of childhood heroes, I got to meet none other than The Boogie-Woogie Man Jimmy Valiant. That was a full-circle moment. I used to watch him wrestle with my Pa-Pa, and let me tell you, the Boogie-Woogie always brought the show. Shaking his hand was a thrill, especially with my upcoming wrestling-themed TTRPG, Legacy of Lucha Libre, dropping as a PDF this December.

When the doors opened, the fans came in. It wasn’t a massive crowd, but that just meant I had time to talk with everyone. And that’s a gift. One of the attendees, Chris, remembered playing The Dark Fantasy of Sundrah with me years ago. Reconnecting with him and reminiscing about those early days was just as exciting as meeting Jimmy Valiant.

Wyvacon isn’t just a con—it’s a community. It actively supports literacy and reading programs for young people, which is something I deeply respect. If you’re a gamer, a sci-fi or fantasy fan, or just someone who loves good vibes and great people, I encourage you to check it out. Help me spread the word. Let’s grow this event together.

Will I be back? Absolutely. I’m planning to give Wyvacon all the support I can. It’s the kind of place where magic happens—not because of flashing lights or big budgets, but because of the people who show up and share their passions.

Hope to see you there next year.

—T. Glenn Bane
Scaldcrow Games

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