Paranormal Experts Gather in DeKalb for Obscura Paracon

Two-day convention explores ghosts, UFOs, and the unexplained

Mar. 17, 2026 at 6:09am

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Paranormal investigators, researchers, and enthusiasts will gather in DeKalb, Illinois for Obscura Paracon, a two-day convention exploring ghosts, UFO encounters, cryptids, and other unexplained phenomena. The event takes place March 21–22 at historic Altgeld Hall Castle and features lectures, workshops, and discussions focused on paranormal investigations and supernatural experiences.

Why it matters

Interest in paranormal research has grown significantly in recent years, fueled by television programs, documentaries, podcasts, and increasing public curiosity about unexplained phenomena. Obscura Paracon provides an opportunity for the public in the Midwest to meet researchers and investigators who have dedicated their lives to studying these topics.

The details

The lineup of speakers includes David Schrader of Travel Channel and HBO's The Holzer Files, presenting a talk on theories surrounding time travel and paranormal phenomena, and Chris Fleming, known from Haunted Ireland and Spooked Scotland, who will discuss personal experiences involving alleged encounters with extraterrestrial entities and supernatural beings. Other presenters include Dale Kaczmarek of the Ghost Research Society, author and folklorist Amelia Cotter, historian and investigator Tony Szabelski, and paranormal media creator Joshua Purvis.

  • Obscura Paracon takes place on March 21–22, 2026.

The players

Willy Adkins

Founder of Obscura Paranormal, a filmmaker and paranormal investigator dedicated to researching unexplained historical accounts.

David Schrader

Paranormal investigator featured on Travel Channel and HBO's The Holzer Files.

Chris Fleming

Paranormal investigator known from Haunted Ireland and Spooked Scotland.

Dale Kaczmarek

Veteran paranormal investigator and president of the Ghost Research Society.

Amelia Cotter

Author and folklorist specializing in haunting history.

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What they’re saying

“Obscura Paracon is a celebration of the paranormal, the unexplained, and the beautifully strange - held inside the iconic Altgeld Hall 'castle' at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois.”

— Willy Adkins (EINPresswire.com)

The takeaway

Obscura Paracon provides an opportunity for the public to engage with researchers and investigators who have dedicated their lives to studying paranormal phenomena, from ghosts and UFOs to cryptids and the unexplained.