FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Flashback Weekend

by John Wroblewski

Aug 15, 2023

Mia and Mike Kerz

Flashback Weekend is Chicago’s largest and longest-running horror convention. Every year I attend the event featuring celebrities, creators, vendors and more.

An attendee since its debut in 2002, I have met many great celebrities over the years including Robert Englund, Meatloaf, Neve Campbell and Dana DeLorenzo. The stars always seem very engaging at Flashback Weekend. As much fun as that always is, I really enjoy meeting authors, artists and other such creators.

Robert Englund

Robert Englund

As co-owner of Horror and SciFi Prop Preservation Association, James Azrael always has cool movie pieces on display. A man of many creative hats, Azrael produced It’s Just a Game, a 2018 thriller destined to be a cult classic. One of the most popular booths, Azrael’s is filled with so many cool movie pieces.

James Azrael

James Azrael

Focusing on horror and the supernatural, author John Everson has 13 novels, among other writing, on his résumé. A Chicago-area native, Everson is always happy to discuss anything horror-related.

John Everson Michael West

John Everson and Michael West

I reconnect with many friends at Flashback Weekend. While we might have different interests at the convention, we enjoy meeting and recapping our days. Although I didn’t see him this year, Indiana-based author Michael West is usually among the thousands of attendees. A big fan of his books, I look forward to getting updates from him.

More than all of that, Flashback Weekend is really a success story of its organizers. Operated masterfully and passionately by Mike and Mia Kerz, Flashback Weekend has grown into a Chicago and horror institution. Unlike most conventions, the couple accomplishes this with a small staff of their two daughters and a few others. The hands-on personal approach and attention to detail would seem the work of many more staffers.

MikeMiaKerz

Mia and Mike Kerz

In addition to Flashback Weekend, the couple runs Midway Drive-In, one of the last remaining drive-in theaters. Opened in 1950, Midway has a classic, retro feel while being modern. Its spacious lot holds 500 cars, all with great views of the giant 90-foot screen. About a two-hour drive west of Chicago, Midway Drive-In is an easy and fun trip.

Between Flashback and Midway, the Kerzes provide a wide range of entertainment. Whenever I go to either, I know I will experience a well-run event and have a load of fun.

— John Wroblewski, online writer

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Slideshow
Apr 29, 2024

6 European Castles to Put on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these European castles with us.

Hotel Indigo: The World’s Neighborhood Hotel

Part of the IHG Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio, Hotel Indigo is the world’s neighborhood hotel that celebrates how guests can discover, or rediscover, some of the most inspiring and culturally rich neighborhoods around the world. When staying at a Hotel Indigo hotel, it's not just about visiting a place — it's about being fully immersed in the neighborhood and wanting to take a little bit of it home. When traveling for business, Hotel Indigo offers a unique experience tailored to each location, making it the perfect choice to stay while traveling for work. With IHG Business Edge, travel managers have exclusive access to enticing perks, comprehensive travel metrics and carefully curated educational resources. It also includes a guaranteed discount on both business and personal travel for managers and employees, alongside an automatic upgrade to IHG One Rewards Silver Elite status after the initial IHG Business Edge stay.

Daily
Apr 26, 2024

The Bishop’s Lodge’s Bunkhouse: A Rustic, Historic Getaway

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a small town that’s big on historic landmarks, buildings, parks and Western lore. Many of its most fascinating structures also happen to be hotels, including Bishop’s Lodge, which extends the city’s specific charms from the streets into the public areas and private suites and rooms. While most of the properties within historic buildings are upscale, Bishop’s Lodge is now a member of Auberge Resorts Collection thanks to a painstaking restoration, luxury appointments, commitment to personal service and wide range of exclusive activities.

Daily
Apr 26, 2024

Book the Ultimate Summer Escape at Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen

Plan your 2024 summer vacation to Mexico. Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen offers travelers special experiences this summer, as well as an all-inclusive offer. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, your significant other or solo, this resort has something for everyone.

Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip

Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems

Daily
Apr 26, 2024

Jamaica Gears Up for Summer with New Hotels and Experiences

Just in time for summer, Jamaica is easier to enjoy than ever thanks to new hotels and excursions. This Caribbean island has never been more alive than this year, and this summer is to be its best one yet.

eFlyer News
Apr 24, 2024

World of Hyatt Members Can Now Earn Points at Mr. and Mrs. Smith Properties Worldwide

Starting today, World of Hyatt members can now earn and redeem points at a collection of more than 700 boutique and luxury hotels and villas around the globe with Mr. & Mrs. Smith. The luxury travel platform was acquired by Hyatt in 2023 and brings even more world-class properties and amenities to World of Hyatt guests than ever before.

L’Ermitage Beverly Hills: A Discreet Hideaway Awaits

Nestled between the palm-lined boulevards of residential Beverly Hills, L'Ermitage evokes a sense of refined elegance and unparalleled service. This Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond haven continues to captivate discerning travelers and Angelenos with its unwavering dedication to personalized hospitality.

eFlyer News
Apr 24, 2024

Lufthansa’s Allegris Takes Off May 1

Lufthansa’s new travel experience on long-haul routes starts its scheduled service May 1. Allegris is the airline’s new cabin, marking a new era for Lufthansa. Allegris sees updates and changes to economy, premium economy and business class, with a planned first-class cabin later this year.