Paranormal Experts Gather in DeKalb for Obscura Paracon

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

Mar. 17, 2026 at 7:07am

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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 veteran paranormal investigators, authors, and researchers covering a range of topics from haunted history to cryptozoology.

  • Obscura Paracon takes place March 21–22, 2026.
  • The event is held annually.

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 researcher known from Haunted Ireland and Spooked Scotland.

Dale Kaczmarek

Veteran paranormal investigator and president of the Ghost Research Society.

Altgeld Hall Castle

The historic venue hosting Obscura Paracon in DeKalb, Illinois.

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What’s next

Obscura Paracon is an annual event, with the next convention scheduled for March 21-22, 2027.

The takeaway

Obscura Paracon provides a platform for paranormal researchers and enthusiasts to share their work and connect with the public, reflecting the growing interest in unexplained phenomena and the desire to better understand the mysteries of the world around us.