Local residents may attend 2014 Medieval Congress for free

KALAMAZOO—Kalamazoo residents and members of the Western Michigan University community may attend the 49th International Congress on Medieval Studies for free if they register online or in person by the Wednesday, April 23, 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 8-11, at venues on the WMU campus in Kalamazoo. It is hosted by the University's Medieval Institute.

The congress will feature 565 sessions, including presentations of scholarly papers, panel discussions, roundtables, workshops and performances. Among this year's highlights will be a Wikipedia write-in and a performance of "The Mystery of Saint Veronica."

In addition, the exhibits hall will be filled with more than 70 publishers, used book dealers, artists and other vendors. There also will be some 100 business meetings and receptions sponsored by learned societies, associations and institutions.

Kalamazoo-area residents and WMU community members may register online or in person at the Miller Auditorium ticket office through April 23 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 23, but they will be assessed a $50 late fee.

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