Comic-Cons are events that bring together some of the most important names in movies, TV shows, video games, and obviously…comics. These events usually last a couple of days and can be quite a handful if you don’t really know what you’re doing and what is there to see. Here we will offer you a small guide on what to do and see at a Comic-Con and how to best use your time there. Read through it, gather all you need, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself. After all, that’s the point.
Authors
If you’ve decided to go to a comic convention, the first thing on your list should be meeting your all-time favorite (living) author. You might have to wait in a line that’s way longer than you originally thought, but if you’re a true fan, you’ll endure. You’ll get a chance to share a few words, discuss the comics you love and, perhaps, get some exclusive info about the upcoming material. Autographs usually cost (real money), but it is nothing compared to the joy it will bring you once you grab hold of that ink-stained paper or comic.
Panels
One highlight of every convention is certainly panels. Although, in the early days, they were concentrated on comic books, nowadays, they function as press conferences for many popular TV shows, movies, games or anything else. At panels, you’ll get to see some of your favorite celebrities, hear about upcoming events, or even ask them any question you like. Most of them are used to people asking them awkward questions in alien costumes, so don’t be afraid to say whatever is on your mind. It might be the only chance you’ve got.
Costumes
Now, we’ve mentioned that costumes and masks are pretty common things at comic-cons, so why not use this unique opportunity to present yourself in whatever form you see fit? Dig out that high-school Star Trek costume you made a long time ago and put it to good use. You’ll feel right at home. While some masks and costumes at comic-con will probably make you giggle and cheer you up, others will amaze you and, perhaps, terrify you. Either way, you’ll get immersed into this great fantasy world that comes alive at every comic-con.
Merchandise
Of course, every big event is followed closely by marketing people, looking to make a buck or two off the unsuspecting attendees. However, at comic-cons, this is not a bad thing. For a relatively low price, you can get some great merchandise: TV show props, shirts, masks, autographs, and, if you’re lucky enough, some exclusive products that are reserved only for the fastest and most persistent. What’s a few hours of queuing in comparison to a valuable memento that you will have for a lifetime?
Publishers
Publishers are easy to spot at comic-cons as they have huge booths with various convention-exclusive items, special offers on comics and other materials or appearances by many of their authors and celebrities. Publishers know they are not stars of the show, so they do a lot to make up for it, which means a lot of great material for you. Stop by their booths and take a look at what they have to offer. You might stumble upon some great deals.
Gaming
As we’ve said before, today’s comic-cons do a lot more than just showcase comics. They usually follow whatever is popular in the world of entertainment, which means including one of the biggest and fastest-growing industries in the world today – video games. You can meet some of the developers, listen to their future plans, or even see some of the people who lend their voices to some of the most iconic video game characters. Of course, as is the case with everything else, video game publishers will also offer special deals and unique merchandise available only at the convention.
People
The bottom line, however, is that comic conventions are all about the people. You will be able to find people that share your interests, dress as awkwardly (or brilliantly) as you, or are willing to help you write what you’ve always longed for – your first comic book. Don’t be afraid to be yourself at this event, as it will give you the best chance to meet someone like you. Simply open up and let go. You might even find your soulmate.
Various Tips
Finally, to finish this off, we’ve included a couple of important tips to know if this is your first comic con. You would get all of these things as you gain more experience, however, it is better to go through this now than to have to learn the hard way.
- Always plan out your visit. There’s a lot to see there and not a lot of time. Make sure you check out everything you wanted.
- Prepare some money beforehand for your favorite items (but not a huge amount).
- Bring a backpack with you. It is an easy way to maneuver the goods around.
- Make sure your phone battery is full.
- Wear some loose, comfortable clothing. With so many people, it quickly gets hot and not in a good way.
- Pack some food and drinks, just in case.
- Remember to have fun, as that’s the whole point!
