Medieval Congress free to local residents who register early

KALAMAZOO—Kalamazoo County residents and members of the Western Michigan University community may attend the 48th International Congress on Medieval Studies for free if they register online or in person by the Wednesday, April 24, deadline for early registration.

WMU's congress is the world's largest annual gathering of people interested in the Middle Ages. This year's event will take place Thursday through Sunday, May 9-12, at venues on the WMU campus in Kalamazoo. It is hosted by the University's Medieval Institute.

Organizers expect some 3,000 people to register for the 2013 congress, which will include more than 575 sessions featuring the presentation of scholarly papers, panel discussions, roundtables, workshops and performances. Among this year's highlights will be an iron smelting demonstration.

In addition, the exhibits hall will be filled with nearly 70 publishers, used book dealers, purveyors of medieval sundries and other vendors. There also will be some 90 business meetings and receptions sponsored by learned societies, associations and institutions.

County residents and WMU community members may register online or in person at the Miller Auditorium ticket office through April 24 at no charge. They also may register through that date by mail or fax for a nominal handling fee.

Those who do not take advantage of the free or nominal-cost registration options may register after April 24, but they will be assessed a $50 late fee.

For more information or to register online, visit wmich.edu/medieval/congress. For information about registering by mail or fax, call (269) 387-8745.