Attendee Guide

Gallifrey One’s Attendee Guide is a quick-reference manual summarizing everything you need to know to enjoy our convention… whether you’re a seasoned “Gally expert” or an anxious first-timer, or anywhere in between. You can find more detailed information on the pages of this website. 

We’ve fully updated the Guide for 2024 and will continue to do so throughout the year!  Don’t see an answer? Let us know and we’ll add it to the list!

Where and when is the next convention?

Gallifrey One’s Miracle on 34th Street will take place February 16-18, 2024 at the Marriott Los Angeles Airport Hotel, 5855 West Century Boulevard, just east of Los Angeles International Airport.  Note that, although the con officially starts Friday, we have early check-in and our convention Launch Party, as well as our first night of karaoke, the evening of Thursday, February 15.

How can I purchase tickets?

Tickets to our 2024 convention are on sale.  Click that link, or the “Tickets & Add-Ons” button above.

Who are the guests for Gallifrey One 2024?

You can always find a list of confirmed guests on our Guests page!

But you don’t have a Doctor this year…?

Correct.  We don’t have Doctors every year (though we’ve had many of them, many times over.)  Gallifrey One is a Doctor Who (the show) convention, not a “The Doctor” (the character) convention, and while the Doctor is the main character of the show, there are many other stars and guest stars and writers and directors and people behind the scenes who work on the series.  Not every Star Trek convention has a Captain, or Star Wars convention, a Jedi.  Gallifrey One is about the entire experience of the series.

Where are my tickets?

Gallifrey One does NOT use printed tickets; you will not receive anything in the mail! Instead, like many other fan conventions, we use a badge system; you pick up your badge upon arrival at the convention, and all you’ll need to claim your badge is your photo ID. You must wear the badge all weekend for access to the convention floor and all convention-related areas. The convention registration area is on the lower floor of the hotel; take the escalator down from the main lobby. You can pick up your badge beginning Thursday at the convention.

We no longer use EventBrite for convention ticket sales; instead, we use our provider Member Solutions.  To find proof of purchase after you’ve bought your tickets, you can search your email for “Member Solutions”.  We also used Member Solutions to sell pre-ordered convention T-shirts and tote bags.

Important: our partner vendor Convention Photo Shoots, which takes care of all our photo op sales as well as our optional add-on packages (such as the Diamond Pass, TARDIS Tag and VIP script readings), does use EventBrite to sell their items.  We know this might lead to some confusion, so we wanted to ensure everyone understands where to find your ticket confirmation.

What do I need to bring with me to attend the convention?

Entrance to Gallifrey One’s Miracle on 34th Street requires photo identification, as your ticket is assigned to your name.  Your legal name on your ID must match the name on your ticket.

You do NOT need to bring any COVID-19 vaccination documentation with you this year.

What are my options for hotel accommodations?

Hotel accommodations at the Marriott LAX Hotel sold out quickly when they went on sale back in May 2023.

However, there are a wide variety of very close options within an easy 5 minute walk and our attendees are usually spread out over many of them. See our Hotel Accommodations page for info.

Where do I park?

Parking at the Marriott LAX after Friday morning can be a huge hassle because of the number of people who attend, and because there are other events in the surrounding areas (including the Strategicon gaming convention next door at the Hilton at the same time as Gallifrey One), it’s often difficult to park. The Marriott lot can and will fill up quickly, but there are many options around the area. We have prepared a Directions and Parking guide to help you find the best place to park and how to get to the hotel thereafter: local parking structures and hotels as well as parking at Los Angeles International itself. The Directions and Parking guide also has information about how much you’ll pay, and also handy directions how to get to the hotel.

For those parking at the Marriott LAX, the daily validated rate discount rate is automatic for hotel guests, and via validation sticker from our Member Services desk for day-trip attendees. When the parking lot is completely full, ask the parking attendants to direct you to another nearby lot (which will be owned by the same company as the Marriott LAX’s parking lot, and should also give you the validated rate).  However, we have other suggestions on the Directions & Parking page as well.

Where do I pick up my pre-ordered convention T-shirt/tote bag?

If you pre-order one of our 2024 convention T-shirts or tote bags, you can pick them up at the Convention Sales desk, which is located in the very back of the Gallifrey One Dealers Room.  You may pick up your merchandise during regular Dealers Room hours on Friday and Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm, and then on Sunday 10:00am until 1:00pm.  Gallifrey One Convention Sales will have additional stock of both items to sell, as well as some past Gallifrey One T-shirts, while supplies last.

Do parents have to accompany children?

Gallifrey One requires all children under 18 at our convention to be accompanied by a paid adult.  Anyone who is age 18 or above should be prepared to show photo ID.

How do I check in/register at the convention?

Click on the image at right to pull up the 2024 version of our convention map, showing you where everything is at the Marriott.

Gallifrey One is located on the lower level of the Marriott in their convention center. When you arrive at the Marriott, to access the convention, it’s very easy: there is an escalator going down from the hotel lobby level. At the bottom of the escalator, you will be guided by a member of our Ops Team to the Convention Registration line to present your identification and vaccination credentials, and then pick up your badge.

NOTE: After the event starts on Friday morning, DO NOT use the elevators if you have not yet picked up your badge; the elevator lobby on the convention floor is gated to badged attendees only, meaning that if you do not have your badge, you will be directed to return to the elevators and back up to the lobby level to use the escalator. (An exception is made for those attendees who must use elevators, such as disabled attendees with wheelchairs or other mobility needs.)

At Convention Registration, show your identification to receive your convention badge. Your badge is on a lanyard and must be worn around your neck at all times that you are at the convention. The convention badge is your credential to access everything the convention has to offer.

Our Registration Desk is open for badge pick up at the following days and times (which are a slight change from our 2023 hours); stop by any time during these windows to pick up your badge. Tickets are good for the weekend and therefore your badge can be picked up at any time during the weekend, as follows:

Convention Registration (Badge Pick-Up) Hours
Thursday 4:00pm to 9:00pm
Friday 9:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday 9:00am to 7:00pm
Sunday 9:00am to 2:00pm

You must have a badge on to enjoy our pre-convention events on Thursday night, so please be sure to pick yours up during the times noted above. Note that the hotel may require people hanging out in the lobby to have a convention badge or reservations at the hotel on Thursday night, so please do not show up for the social events some people refer to as “lobby con” if you are not a ticketholder (there are maximum capacity issues, after all!)

Do you still publish a searchable attendee list?

No.  We stopped releasing our attendee list online several years ago, due to privacy concerns.

What is the schedule of events for the convention?

The following is our general guide to the convention, starting with badge pickup (attendees with tickets pick up their badges at our Registration desk, which allows you entry into the convention):

• Wednesday, February 14, 2024
  • As attendees and guests start to arrive for Gallifrey One, many will mingle in the hotel lobby and bar throughout the evening (and the first ribbon-trading meet-up is at 7:30 Wednesday night in the lobby.) 
• Thursday, February 15, 2024
  • 4:00pm to 9:00pm — Registration open for badge pickup
  • 5:15pm — Annual In N’Out Burger run (meet in hotel lobby)
  • 8:00pm — Gallifrey One 2024’s Pre-Convention Launch Party and Ice Cream Social, plus Thursday night karaoke immediately after (9:30pm approx.), both in Program A
• Friday, February 16, 2024
  • 9:00am — Registration reopens for badge pickup (to 8pm); Member Services desk open for information & assistance (until 6pm); Video Room open (to midnight)
  • 10:00am — Dealers Room open (to 6pm); panel programming begins in Program B & C; Gaming open (to midnight)
  • 10:30am — Program A (main stage) seating opens
  • 11:00am — Main stage programming (to 6:30pm), starting with the Radio Free Skaro podcast live show; panel programming begins in Program D
  • 12:00pm — All remaining programming open (including Program E and our Kaffeeklatsches); Art Show open (until 6pm)
  • 6:30pm — Program A closes; Fan Video Happy Hour in Program B; panel programming continues in Program C; Shabbat Shalom Gallifrey One service in Program D; Evening Guest Receptions begin, at 6:30pm and 8:00pm (for additional charge, purchase here)
  • 7:30pm — The Masquerade of Mandragora costume & fashion show, immediately followed (8:30pm approx.) by Dominic Glynn’s Survival Remixes, and a screening (at 9:30pm approx.) of The Daleks in Colour.
  • 9:30pm — Friday night karaoke in Program B; The Cornell Collective talk show (18+ only) in Program C
• Saturday, February 17, 2024
  • 9:00am — Registration reopens for badge pickup (through 7pm); Member Services desk open for information & assistance (until 6pm); Video Room open (to midnight)
  • 9:30am — Program A (main stage) seating opens
  • 10:00am — All program tracks and kaffeeklatsches open (to 6pm); Dealers Room and Art Show open (to 6pm); Gaming open (to midnight); Billie Piper VIP script reading in Program B (for additional charge, purchase here)
  • 12:00pm-2:00pm — TARDIS Talks academic program track in Program B
  • 5:00pm — Evening Guest Receptions begin, at 5:00pm, 6:30pm and 8:00pm (for additional charge, purchase here)
  • 6:00pm — Program A closes; The Game of Rassilon event in Program B
  • 8:00pm — The Idiot’s Lantern live stage show in Program A
  • 9:30pm (approx.) — Gallifrey One 2024’s dance party in Program A; Saturday night Karaoke in Program B
• Sunday, February 18, 2024
  • 9:00am — Registration reopens for badge pickup (until 1pm); Member Services desk open for information & assistance (until 4pm); Video Room open (to 4pm); Gaming open (to 4pm)
  • 9:30am — Program A (main stage) seating opens
  • 10:00am — All program tracks and kaffeeklatsches open (to 4pm); Art Show auction in Program E (10am); Dealers Room open (to 4pm); Derek Jacobi VIP script reading in Program B (for additional charge, purchase here)
  • 12:00pm — Gallifrey One’s 2024 Bob May Memorial Charity Auction begins in Program B (runs until late afternoon)
  • 12:00pm — Alex Kingston VIP script reading in Program C (for additional charge, purchase here)
  • 4:00pm — The Year in Review in Program A; most programming ends; Dealers Room closes
  • 5:00pm — Closing Ceremonies

Please note that the above times are subject to change and may be altered at any time prior to the convention.

If I want to see everything, when should I arrive (and leave)?

For most fans with flexibility in their travel plans, to get the most out of Gallifrey One we suggest arriving no later than late afternoon Thursday, and departing no earlier than Monday morning.

We have a pre-convention party/mixer on Thursday evening beginning at 8:00pm, with karaoke happening that night as well. Besides the scheduled events, we have a very lively social atmosphere, with literally hundreds of attendees participating in the hotel lobby social scene on Thursday and Sunday nights (something many of our attendees refer to as “lobby con,” although please note that this is not a convention function.) By Thursday evening, our hotel lobby and bar area is completely full of people, with lots of socializing; at 8:00 pm many of them come down for the opening party. The convention proper begins at 10:00 am on Friday morning and runs through Sunday evening.

I’m flying in; how do I get to the Marriott?

We have published a guide For Air Travelers to help you get from your terminal to the Marriott hotel. The Marriott LAX courtesy van runs every 20-30 minutes, but please be advised that the shuttle can run very slowly at peak times, and has occasionally been known to bypass the higher-number terminals if it is full (usually because of airline personnel staying at the hotel). Taxis might be your best option when the airport is very busy.

How do I find everything at the convention?

The Gallifrey One convention is mostly in the convention center, though a couple of items are in other locations:

• Convention Center (lower floor): Program Rooms A, B, C, D and E; Dealers Room; Art Show; Photo Studio; Kaffeeklatsches; Exhibitor Tables; Autograph Alley; TARDIS photo area; Costume Repair Shop; Auction Donation Room; Gaming Hub. Also, our Convention Merchandise sales desk, including T-shirt/tote bag pickup for preorders, is located in the Dealers Room this year.  For all your other needs, the Member Services Desk is next to the elevators.
• First Floor/Pool Deck: Children’s Programming and the hotel pool (where many attendees congregate for social events.)  Our private convention operations base is also located here.
• Hotel Lobby Level (second floor): Only hotel amenities (hotel lobby, Hangar 18 bar/restaurant, Starbucks, J.W.’s Steakhouse, Social Market Cafe).  We no longer have any programming or events on the lobby level.
• 16th Floor “Runway Room”: Private sponsored events including our Evening Guest Receptions and select meet & greet events included in the TARDIS Tag package.

The up/down escalators are direct access between the hotel lobby (second floor) and convention center (bottom floor); they bypass the first floor entirely. To access the first floor/pool deck, you may use the elevators, or the stairs that lead down from the lobby level (the stairs are located immediately past hotel registration).

Does my badge include everything at the convention?

The convention itself, yes; that is, all five programming tracks, access to all of our daytime & evening functions, our Dealers Room, Art Show, video room, gaming room, and more. All of our guests appearing on panels and Q&As, interviews, discussion panels, video presentations, live commentaries, social events, evening events… all are included in the price you paid for your ticket.

However, there are only a few special add-on items that are NOT INCLUDED in the cost of your admission:

• Evening guest receptions with a selection of convention guests
• TARDIS Tag events (small group meet & greets)
• Photo ops with selected guests in our Convention Photo Studio
• Autographs (see below)

For prices of or to purchase tickets for the evening receptions, TARDIS Tags, Diamond Passes and photo ops, you can visit the Convention Photo Shoots website. Photo op pre-orders are sold as a courtesy and are nearly always available on site (though we can only sell enough photo ops up to the time limit for each guest; a sell-out hasn’t happened on photo ops yet, but it’s technically possible.) Evening receptions may sell out prior to the convention.

You can also purchase tickets for the evening receptions and photo ops while supplies last on Thursday at the convention during Registration hour (times to be announced) or starting Friday morning at the Showmasters tables in the Dealers Room.

How is seating handled for the programming sessions & events?

Gallifrey One provides open seating for all of our program rooms; we do not sell reserved seating, and we do not clear rooms between each daytime program event (or between the evening events), only at the dinner hour (usually after 6pm).  If you want to sit in the front row of Program A all day long, get their early and claim your seat! That said, we do have a couple of important things to keep in mind.

Program A (the main hall) will open for seating on Friday at 10:30am, and on Saturday & Sunday at 9:30am.  General seating is open to everyone during these times.  Although it may first appear that seating is light, we ask you to please fill in all available seats.

Reserve seating is held in Program A/B/C/D for attendees with special needs (who have registered at the Accessibility Services desk, located next to Convention Registration). This includes front row seating specifically reserved for hearing and vision impaired attendees.  We ask that you please pay attention to reserved seating signs and do not sit in these spaces if you have not been instructed to do so.  Attendees who have registered with Accessibility Services will be instructed where to meet for seating for these events.

You MUST fill in all available seats when asked by a Gallifrey One staff member. There are times when our main ballroom (Program A) will be filled to capacity; during these times, we will fill all empty seats, regardless of seats being “saved” for others.  You have been warned.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, Program A will be closed briefly at the end of our main daytime programming session, for setup for our stage events The Masquerade of Mandragora and The Idiot’s Lantern.  Lines usually begin to form for the room after that, so if you want a great seat, we encourage you to join the line at that time. Attendees should never hold places in line for parties larger than four. 

In our panel program rooms (Program B/C/D), please do not save seats for others as these rooms have limited seating.  Program E is a multi-purpose room so there is very limited seating available. 

While you’re in our programming rooms, we ask that you follow our Courtesy Policy toward other guests. Please take a minute to check out the Courtesy Policy and understand how we handle our event to make it enjoyable for everyone in attendance.

Are there breaks between panels and events?

Yes… Gallifrey One provides breaks in between panel sessions for people to be able to leave the room and new people be able to come in and sit down. Please note that the following will be in effect; our programming coordinators will be ensuring that programs end on time (as much as they possibly can):

• For 60 minute (hour) programming and panel blocks, the panels will be 55 minutes long, with a 5 minute break at the end of the hour.
• For 45 minute programs (mostly interview sessions), the panels will be 40 minutes long, with a 5 minute break at the end.
• For 30 minute programs, the panel will run the full 30 minutes; this is the one item that will not have a break after.
• Any panels or events longer than an hour will be at the discretion of programming operations but will likely have a 5-10 minute break at the end.
• Panels that are the last panel of the day prior to a gap in the schedule or a closure of the room will be allowed to run until the very end of the panel block.

How are audience questions handled in Program A?

We no longer feature an open microphone in Program A for audience questions. Although we’ve loved the opportunity for open dialogue between attendees and our guests taking the stage, many an interview has been sidetracked with things that your fellow attendees have not enjoyed: the long-winded “questions” (more like statements) that take forever, the requests to give guests gifts (or hugs), and of course, the dreaded “what’s your favorite ___?”  We have instead opted to proceed with interview-style events in Program A throughout the weekend.

We may accept audience questions in advance selected interviews/panels up until two hours prior to the start of the event.  We will have a list of these events online close to the convention.  Drop by Member Services and ask for a question card for one of these events; simply write your name and your question on the card.  Our interviewers will be reviewing submissions for their panels after the deadline and, who knows… maybe your question will be answered!  (We make absolutely no guarantees though; it is entirely the choice of the moderator!)

Are there activities for children?

Yes.  Our Children’s Programming track will return in 2024… details coming closer to the convention.

Tell me about Karaoke…

Gallifrey One’s late night fun (and by late night, we mean often times going as late as five o’clock in the morning!) is our karaoke event, located on the convention level. Karaoke is open to all badged convention attendees throughout the weekend (badges WILL be checked) and will take place on Thursday night in Program A, and Friday & Saturday nights in Program B.

In order to make sure that the maximum number of people get to sing throughout the evening, and avoid any appearance of favoritism, we have a very simple policy regarding karaoke participation:

• You must be signed up in advance to take the stage and sing at any time, either solo or in a group
• You may only be signed up for ONE item/song/performance at any time on our list
• You may only sign up for another performance after you have appeared on stage

There are no exceptions to these rules. We do NOT permit audience members to join a performance, either solo or group, without already having been signed up, and your name may only appear on our current and upcoming list once — so no stage rushing, no random joining a song, etc. Once your turn as a participant in ANY karaoke performance is done, you may sign up again.

This policy is enforced entirely so that everyone has a good time and that no one is perceived to appear during karaoke more than any other person. If you have questions, please contact us. Thanks for your cooperation.

Can I help set up the convention?

Interested in helping out Gallifrey One for a few hours? We would love to have you!  We need help with both our truck loading on Wednesday, and unloading & setting up on Thursday. We’re looking for able-bodied individuals (with convention tickets; we are not offering admission, sorry!) so contact us and let us know and we’ll put you in touch with the logistics and set-up team! (Please note: for liability reasons all volunteer help must be age 18 or over; thanks!)

What is Gallifrey One’s current health policy?

For your safety, we recommend that our attendees use the following guidance when attending the convention:

• We strongly recommend all attendees receive vaccination from viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and influenza as soon as possible.
• We strongly recommend all attendees over the age of two wear masks indoors regardless of vaccination status except when actively eating or drinking, and to follow the California Department of Public Health guidance for face coverings. (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Guidance-for-Face-Coverings.aspx)
• We strongly recommend considering testing (if available) or self-isolation at home if you are currently feeling symptoms of illness.
• We strongly recommend following the CDC’s guidance on hand washing. (https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html)

Please be aware that all COVID-19 mandates enacted by the City of Los Angeles, the County of Los Angeles, and the state of California during the COVID-19 pandemic have ended.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is both safe and effective.  Remember that you can be fully vaccinated against COVID and still have it, not to mention can still transmit it to others; home testing before you arrive is a great way to do your part.  If you are sick, or test positive for COVID, stay home.  

Even in cases where a vaccine is available for a given illness, in large indoor events there may be populations that may not currently be eligible for vaccination or who may be immunocompromised. It is for the sake of everyone’s health and safety that we recommend we each do what we can individually to improve the health of our community.  For any attendees who may be immunocompromised, we recommend that these individuals wear a mask with N95 protection while in indoor spaces in order to keep themselves safe.

Thank you for helping us reduce the spread of unwanted germs at our convention so that we can all have a safe, healthy convention experience!  (With thanks to Anime Los Angeles for some of the above guidance!)

How can I take care of myself (and others) at the convention?

Science fiction conventions are notorious for being places where flu and cold germs spread, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated that over the past few years. We ask that all Gallifrey One attendees to be prepare… and be mindful of everyone attending this year’s convention, by remembering the following:

• As noted above, we recommend keeping up with your COVID-19 vaccination and make sure you test before you attend.  Wear a face mask if you feel even slightly ill, or at any time throughout the convention that you wish; we do encourage this!
• Please be sure to wash your hands as often as possible and use hand sanitizer regularly.
• Getting a flu shot is highly recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
• Most importantly, if you get sick, please stay home, so as not to infect others.

Gallifrey One, like any convention or large gathering, is a lot of people from all over the US as well as from over a dozen other countries, in a very small and relatively confined space. While we’re very welcoming to everyone, we do encourage people to consider the health and well being of all of their fellow attendees when considering their options for attending this year… the convention appreciates it, your fellow attendees appreciate it, and we’re sure the Doctor would too!

What’s in the Dealers Room?

Gallifrey One’s Dealers Room features everything from Doctor Who licensed vendors to jewelry and handcrafted items, books, games, comics, collectables, costumes and prop replicas, guests with their own tables and much more. Our Dealers Room is included in your admission and will be open in 2024 on Friday and Saturday 10:00am – 6:00pm, and Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Our Dealers Room is anchored by several large Doctor Who vendors, including Alien Entertainment/Big Finish Productions, Showmasters Events, The Who Shop UK and many more.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Will there be an opportunity to have photos taken with a TARDIS in 2024?

There are two TARDISes at Gallifrey One. The one on the convention floor, as well as a a TARDIS console, are open for photos in the TARDIS Photo area, courtesy its owners AZTARDIS; you can pose for photos at that location, and donations to the owner are accepted. (Gallifrey One’s own TARDIS is not available for photos generally, as it resides on our main stage.)  If you take photos with these items in the AZTARDIS display area, please consider donating to them!

I need special assistance; what are my options?

Gallifrey One’s Accessibility Services team is here to help! If you are disabled, have limited mobility or any other special needs that require some assistance, please stop and register at the Accessibility Services desk, located next to Convention Registration this year.  They will answer any of your questions and let you know how to proceed with enjoying the convention.

Note: if you do not yet have your badge, and have mobility issues including using wheelchairs or scooters, you are welcome to use the elevator to the Convention Center floor (lower level)! We ask that anyone without mobility issues please use the escalators.

Seating in Program A is handled by Accessibility Services team. We will begin assisting our attendees who register with Accessibility Services before we open the doors for general seating. We have clearly marked spaces for the visual and hearing impaired, wheelchair and scooter locations, and more. Program A is closed for setup in the early evening (6pm to 6:45pm Friday, 6pm to 7:30pm Saturday) for a reset for our evening shows. Attendees who have registered with Accessibility Services will be instructed to meet at a location determined by them; you will be seated immediately prior to opening the doors for general seating.   Note that this early seating does NOT give you the best seating in the house… for the purposes of fairness, if you want to be able to sit in the front rows, you will need to line up with everyone else. 

For all other program rooms we will be reserving a few seats in each room for hearing- and visually-impaired attendees as well as access for wheelchairs, although there will be no interpreters present. 

Please note: We are currently unable to provide ASL interpreters at our convention.  Gallifrey One requests that you understand that we are a non-profit, volunteer-run fan convention with a very limited budget, and so we have to work entirely within the scope of what we can afford for extended accessibility services. We will do everything we possibly can to make sure you enjoy your visit.

What is your charity for 2024?

The designated beneficiary of 2024’s Bob May Memorial Charity Auction is The Trevor Project.  Complete information about the auction and our charity is on the Charity Auction page.

Can I donate to the charity auction?

YES! Absolutely. We would very much appreciate your donation, as our auction is entirely of merchandise donated by attendees.

What kinds of donations are we looking for?  In short: donations of science fiction, fantasy, comics, horror or genre related material, most especially Doctor Who and its spinoffs. This includes items from many different genres: a few examples include Torchwood, Marvel MCU/DC Extended Universe, Star Wars, Star Trek, Harry Potter, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Supernatural, Game of Thrones, The Expanse, Stranger Things, Westworld, The Prisoner, Blake’s 7, Outlander, Buffy, Angel, Firefly, Stargate, Battlestar Galactica, Caprica, Red Dwarf and the myriad comics-related TV shows and films; as well as anything related to science fiction film and television, SF/fantasy literature, comic books, or collectibles. Anything that has a tangential relationship to the SF/fantasy/horror genre which is in at least very good condition. Autographed photos, commemorative items, one-time prints, illustrations, etc. are also welcome. If you find it to be a valuable collectible, chances are good that others will, too. Just be sure: this is not a disposal service for items you wish to throw away! 

To donate, bring your donation(s) to the Charity Auction Donation Room. The Auction Donation Room will be open during normal business hours starting Friday morning and running until Saturday late afternoon.

And don’t forget to join us on Sunday for Gallifrey One’s Annual Bob May Memorial Charity Auction. We hope you’ll help us raise a lot of money for our charity.

How do I get autographs at Gallifrey One?

Gallifrey One provides three different types of autograph opportunities at our events, which we know can be confusing (especially to the newer attendees).  We believe in scheduling autograph sessions appropriately to the guest, not imposing on all of our guests’ times, while still providing as much autograph opportunity and flexibility in case we need to make last minute changes; meanwhile, many of our sponsored guests have autograph commitments in their contracts. 

ALL of our autographing this year takes place in the Gallifrey One Dealers Room; the only differences between each type is how autographs are delivered to you.  Here is a quick and easy to understand guide to getting your most coveted autographs at this year’s convention:

Autograph Alley

Gallifrey One’s Autograph Alley is our general autograph session area, located in the very back of our Dealers Room.  Nearly every guest we invite ourselves directly signs here, with rare exceptions (sponsored guests and guests with their own tables sign elsewhere, see below).   Each guest involved in an Autograph Alley event will begin signing at the start of the session, usually for a one-hour or, in some cases, two-hour block… but we permit the guest’s session to end when there is no expectation of additional autograph collectors wanting signatures.  In other words, we don’t require guests to remain for the entire time; you should show up as close to the start of the session as possible, as it’s their choice to stick around or not.

Participants in this year’s Autograph Alley include: Segun Akinola; Ray Holman; Sally Knyvette; Jan Chappell; Brian Croucher; Kevin Jon Davies; Stephen Cole; Mark Morris; James Goss; Esmie Jikiemi-Pearson; John Dorney; Gary Russell; Lisa McMullin; Tony Lee; Jody Houser; Paul Cornell; Peter Anghelides; Simon Guerrier; Lizbeth Myles; Alfie Shaw; Barbara Hambly, Christopher Jones, Larry Nemecek. 

Additionally, there will be a dedicated signing on Friday in the Autograph Alley for contributing writers of the “History of Studying Doctor Who” book.

Sponsored Guests

Autograph sessions with our “sponsored guests” are set entirely by the sponsors, for a time and duration of their choosing, at their tables in our Dealers Room.  You will pay the sponsor directly at their table for autographs (credit cards OK for Showmasters & Alien Entertainment, otherwise cash-only).  The sponsored guests usually sign for longer periods during the day and often have multiple autograph sessions each day, though some only appear one or two days, so check the schedule.

Sponsored guests signing at Showmasters Events include: Sir Derek Jacobi; Billie Piper; Alex Kingston; Matthew Waterhouse; Camille Coduri; Jacqueline King; Shaun Dingwall; Eric Roberts; Eliza Roberts; Christine & Bradley Galey; Rory Ross; Warren Proulx; Sandra Gimpel.  Showmasters Events manages their own autograph lines, which start at the front door of the Dealers Room and run out onto the patio.

Sponsored guests signing at Alien Entertainment/Big Finish include: Jonathon Carley; Jaye Griffiths. 

Additionally, Rachel Talalay will be signing at the Alien Entertainment booth this year.  Alien Entertainment have also graciously lent us their autographing space to accommodate a special signing of the “Companions of Doctor Who” book on Saturday morning.

Fixed Location Guests

Some of our guests — including sponsored guests appearing on only one day — have their own tables in our Dealers Room.  These guests will be signing throughout the day, on the day(s) they are in attendance; we do not post autograph times for them since they will set their own hours and are usually available any time they are not doing programming or photo ops. 

Guests who have their own tables in the Dealers Room (and therefore do not have set times for autographs) include: Frazer Hines; Kevin McNally; Annette Badland; Brian Herring; Dominic Glynn; Gigi Edgley; Robert Strange; Keith Barnfather (Reeltime Pictures); Gareth Kavanagh & Ian Winterton (Cutaway Comics). Additionally, copies of “The Companions of Doctor Who” will be signed by contributors at the Fayetteville Mafia Press table after their panel on Saturday morning.

Additional Important Autographs Information

All guests are free to set their own costs for autographs (usually in the case of actors) or sign for free, as well as sell their own photos or other merchandise if they choose to; Gallifrey One does not require any concessions on potential autograph costs and takes no cut.

Gallifrey One does not pre-sell autographs at any time; you will need to speak to the guest, or their sponsoring organization, at the time for any rates.

It is highly recommended you bring ample cash with you for autographs; don’t plan on using a local ATM (especially the one in the Marriott, which tends to run out of cash quickly). Autographs from guests who charge for signing can run anywhere from $10-30 or higher.

Please respect our guests’ rights to charge for autographs at the costs they deem appropriate; our guests are here on their own time and frequently part of their recompense is in the sales of autographs.

In order to provide our attendees with a positive experience while waiting for an autograph from guests in our Autograph Alley or Dealers Room, we will not permit saving places for friends in any autograph lines, or allow jumping ahead in line to join a friend/relative (exception: those with jump-the-line passes as part of their ticket packages through Convention Photo Shoots, such as TARDIS Tag or Diamond Pass holders.)

Due to time constraints and our wish to allow everyone possible a chance for an autograph, we are not able to permit attendees to take photos with guests during autographs, except with the full consent of the guest; this is limited to guests who have their own tables in the Dealers Room only.  Our sponsored guests, and our guests participating in the Autograph Alley, may choose to allow the taking of personal photos at other times, and attendees are welcome to have their photo taken during our professionally-run photo sessions in the Photo Studio throughout the weekend.

Gallifrey One reserves the right to alter these policies or alter the category of each guest at any time.

What are kaffeeklatsches? How do I participate?

The Gallifrey One Kaffeeklatsches are wonderful, small group events with one or two guests and up to ten fans this year.  We will do online signups on February 3, 2024, after which (if you miss out) you can also sign up for sessions by visiting the Kaffeeklatsches desk when it opens at 10:00am on Friday February 16.  You can also put your name on a wait list for full sessions in case any slots become available.  As the kaffeeklatsches usually completely fill up by Friday morning, we encourage you to be there when the Kaffeeklatches Desk opens; it’s located right next to the elevators on the convention center level.

This year we will be allowing fans with one kaffeeklatsch already assigned to sign up for a second session after the desk opens Friday, so we can fill up all of the sessions throughout the weekend!

Can I cosplay at Gallifrey One?

ABSOLUTELY! Costumes at Gallifrey One are welcome, encouraged, and beloved, and are welcome at nearly all convention functions at all times (except the sponsored Evening Receptions, where we suggest you might want to dress in more general attire.) Even some of our guests occasionally get in on the act and do cosplay. It’s a wonderful part of the convention and encouraged all weekend long.

(Of course, it should go without saying that it’s also not a requirement, and the vast majority of our attendees are in regular street clothing – so don’t feel bad if you don’t cosplay, just enjoy the clever costumes around you. And don’t forget to complement cosplayers on their costumes if you like what you see!)

Will there be a Masquerade at Gallifrey One 2024?

The Masquerade of Mandragora returned to Gallifrey One in 2023.  Post-pandemic, and for a variety of different reasons, we elected to eliminate the more difficult/labor intensive format (the judging & elaborate performances) in favor of a fashion show style presentation.

The 2024 Masquerade of Mandragora costume & fashion show will return to our stage on Friday night, February 16, at Gallifrey One 2024.  All convention attendees are welcome to attend and enjoy the fabulous costumes on display!

For costumers: You are welcome to enter your cosplay into the Masquerade, including hall costumes!  Simply stop by the Masquerade Registration Table located near Convention Registration on Friday at the convention, and fill out an entry card (all we need is your name, and the name of your costume.)  Yes, you can enter as a solo act or in a small group.  You’ll be given instructions on where to meet for the event.  Please note that we will have background music playing but we are no longer taking individual cues; also, please be sure to keep your stage time brief so everyone has a chance to be seen. We cannot provide custom music or sound effects for you, sorry.

What’s the deal with all the ribbons?

Badge Ribbons are a science fiction and anime convention tradition, and Gallifrey One has been the primary reason why they’ve made the jump to Doctor Who conventions. It’s important to remember that badge ribbons are a totally optional item that have absolutely nothing to do with participating in the convention. They are, instead, small ribbons with phrases or decoration of various colors that people collect at the convention, and attach them to the bottom of their badges in sequence. You can find an article about ribbons and etiquette on our Ribbons page.

Many people purchase their own batch of ribbons and hand them out at the convention; many others bring their own ribbons but only offer them for trade. It’s important for people to remember that your fellow attendees pay for their ribbons with their own money; asking for ribbon trades instead of offering them for free is something everyone must respect (although everyone should practice courtesy!) Do not pay anyone for a ribbon; we do not allow people to sell their ribbons.

Where can I grab a meal/drink/snack?

As always, we like to help our attendees find as many food options as possible.  Here’s a list of where you can find food and beverage during this year’s convention:

• Social Market Cafe is the Marriott’s coffee shop, which prepares food from various local and regional California suppliers, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Hours of operation: 6:00am to Midnight.
• Hangar 18 is the Marriott’s lobby bar & restaurant. It features a full bar, plus some of the same fare as the Social Market restaurant.  Hours of operation: 11:30am to Midnight.
• J.W.’s is the hotel’s steakhouse. Reservations are required as in years past. J.W.’s is on the pricey side but the food is definitely worth it!  Hours of operation: 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
• Starbucks is open daily in the Marriott lobby for coffee, drinks, pastries and snacks. Note that the lines for Starbucks can be long in the morning (there are also Starbucks at the Residence Inn and Sheraton Gateway hotels!)  Hours of Operation: 5:00am to 5:00pm.
• Food trucks are once again returning to the convention center patio all three days of the convention! We will have details on our 2024 food trucks shortly before the event.

There are multiple food options in the local area including Jersey Mike’s Subs and Z Pizza in the Residence Inn a block west of the Marriott; Trimana coffee shop in the business tower right across Airport Blvd. from the Marriott (note: closed Sunday); Carl’s Jr. fast food just east of the Hilton & Parking Spot garage; and and there are restaurants at the Crowne Plaza LAX, Four Points Sheraton, Embassy Suites, Renaissance LAX and other hotels.  Further afield, several blocks east of the hotel (anywhere from 10 to 20 minute walk) are Denny’s, Subway, McDonald’s, the Daily Grill at the Westin, and others.

In order to provide our attendees a large outdoor space to eat and mingle, as well as to aid those waiting for service by our food trucks, the outdoor convention patio is completely NON-SMOKING.  This includes the ramp area around the food trucks.

Smokers may use the designated area right outside the front doors on the hotel lobby level or other outdoor areas, but not near the convention patio or food trucks.  Thank you for your cooperation.

Can I film anything at Gallifrey One?

Video recording and video streaming of our programming is NOT ALLOWED in any Gallifrey One program rooms (that is, any of our five main program rooms, noted as Program A/B/C/D/E on site) due to issue with people uploading the contents of our programming to YouTube and other services. This policy is strictly enforced. If you are found to be making a video or streaming our events – including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube or other live streaming – in our program rooms, you will be asked to stop immediately. If you do not comply, you will be removed from the convention. Please ensure you are comply with this policy; we don’t want to ruin your weekend.  Photography in these rooms is perfectly fine, just no video!

Photography and video are NOT allowed in the Art Show. Photography of art, model, toy and collectibles displays may be allowed with the permission of the Art Show Coordinator and the artist; contact the Art Show Coordinator for more details.

Photography and videotaping of other activities OUTSIDE the program rooms or Art Show, including hallway chats, general cosplay, personal photos/video with the TARDIS, etc., is acceptable provided that subjects being videotaped consent to it and provided that it does not disrupt events or the flow of foot traffic. Should any convention guest or staff member request that videotaping of a particular item (such as autograph sessions or photo ops) be discontinued, attendees must comply with this request immediately. (Please be courteous and do not stop in the middle of all hallway to make your video.)

You can visit our Convention Policies page for more information about our videotaping policy and other policies that affect your enjoyment of Gallifrey One.

Are there other rules I need to be aware of?

Yes! Gallifrey One’s Convention Policies page has detailed information about our policies against harassment, our courtesy policies and much more. You should familiarize yourself with it if you have not done so. But here’s a quick summary:

• Gallifrey One does not tolerate harassment, bullying, threats or violence in any form. We will deal with this directly and swiftly including canceling the perpetrator’s badge (permanently) and referring to the proper legal authorities. Please go to our Member Services desk for help!  Also, we have an overnight hotline for specific issues that take place on the convention floor, the number for which is posted at Member Services.
• If we see someone exhibiting obvious signs of being sick, we will ask them to self-isolate.  Please don’t show up if you are clearly sick and contagious to others, no matter what the illness.
• Illegal issues such as possession of controlled substances, possession of alcohol by anyone under 21, possession of weapons or other contraband, etc., will be referred to law enforcement. We have ZERO tolerance for this.  Please do note that cannabis is fully legal for adults 18 and above in the state of California, though neither Gallifrey One nor the Marriott LAX permit its use on hotel premises.
• We have a very specific courtesy policy: do not bug guests during their down time; do not annoy fellow convention goers with tall hats during panels, talking during events or taking cellphone calls/letting your cellphone ring during panels; please take crying babies/children out of program rooms, etc.
• Videotaping rules are in effect and are noted above.
• Badges must be visible at all times.

See the Convention Policies page for more details!

What do I do if I have other questions or if urgent issues arise, including complaints of harassment?

Have questions on site?  Not sure how to find a program item?  Looking for the best place to eat?  What about a Lost and Found?  The Member Services desk is here to help you!  Member Services is located in one of the two kiosks (the other is the Kaffeeklatsch Desk) right next to the elevator lobby on the convention floor, adjacent to the center Exhibitor Table hallway. Stop by if you have questions or need assistance.

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We hope this guide for new and returning attendees helps you navigate our convention a little better – and of course we would love to hear your feedback. Contact us and let us know if you have any other suggestions or questions!