Inside the dealer room at the SFX Weekender

Expect signings, book launches, art and of course bargains in the dealer area at SFX Weekender 3

We've concentrated on the big guest names in recent announcements, but an SFX Weekender festival is about more than just actor autographs and discussion panels.

You could just choose to stay in the bar all weekend with their (new) friends, or watch film after film in the Screening Zone. You could listen to your favourite author talk on stage then go for a walk on the beach. All of this is fine - although the beach is cold in February - and some people spend many happy hours not venturing into the busy dealer area of the venue. But you should, because there's loads to see and buy.

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For a start Forbidden Planet will have a big stand there as they have done in the two previous years. Not only is it a great place to pick up collectables but they'll also be selling books, and hosting certain author signing sessions throughout the weekend. So if you want Ken MacLeod or Sarah Pinborough or China Miéville's latest novel and you want to meet them to get an autograph, this will be the place to do it. (Remember, you do not need to buy a signing pass for author autographs.)

There will also be top authors appearing at other booths too, because Angry Robot, Black Library, Solaris and Abaddon, Wayne Simmons and more all have their own tables. The House Of Murky Depths will also be there, showcasing their new YA imprint Murkee and launching Queen Rat , a steampunk story from the pen of rising star Kim Lakin-Smith.

"For almost as long as Murky Depths has been in print its publishers have been considering producing a series of YA or children's books," explains attendee Terry Martin. "Now they are intent on making an impact with the teenage reader and consequently have launched a new imprint called Murkee. The first book will be launching at the SFX Weekender in February 2012 and is a steampunk story called Queen Rat . Whereas most steampunk stories feature dirigibles, Lakin-Smith's story is set in the submersible world of the Free Ocean."

Talking of steampunk, you'll also be able to see the Victorian Steampunk Society there. And gamers will be able to see the latest tabletop action from Cubicle 7 and Esdevium Games.

Not enough for you? There are loads more yet to be confirmed but highlights include Genki Gear t-shirts, Phoenix copper art, mobile massage, and the art of Jim Burns . Watch this space for more announcements, get your ticket quick by calling 08700 110034, and start saving your pennies now.

Dave was once the Group Editor-in-Chief for Future's film group, but now he's the COO of Pocket Gamer and Pocket Gamer Biz. He also freelances for SFX Magazine and hosts the Robby The Robot's Waiting podcast with a couple of friends.