Plans are under way for a Northwest Indiana event to celebrate the late Michael Jackson.

The first International King of Pop Fanvention is scheduled for Aug. 26 to 29 at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, and organizers anticipate it will attract more than 10,000 of his fans from around the world.

Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, is expected to attend the official announcement next month for the Fanvention.

"This is the only event of its kind in the world because it is the only event that will be held so close to his boyhood home," event director Donald Thompson said in a news release. "We felt that Indiana was the perfect place to host an event that will highlight Michael’s life and music. It just makes sense. It all began here."

The event will include autograph and photo sessions with people who worked with and knew Michael Jackson. Members of the Jackson family will attend and will participate in question-and-answer sessions. A dance party and gala also are scheduled.

Tours will run to the Jackson family home throughout the weekend. Vendors will be on hand to sell memorabilia and collector’s items, and a special salute to Jackson will be performed by young entertainers from the Northwest Indiana.

Tickets will be available starting Monday. For more information, visit http://www.mjfanvention.com or call (877) 653-2658.