For the second year in a row, this past weekend I joined my fellow geeks at New York Comic Con to discuss pop culture, dress up as our favorite characters, meet celebrities, appreciate artists, and marvel at the latest in the comic book universe (get it!?). Last year, about 170,000 attended NYCC. That's a lot of people passing through the hallways in one convention center for just a long weekend.
With such a large number of people and extremely dedicated fans, there's always a lot of craziness happening. For those of you who aren't as lucky to be able to attend NYCC, just simply curious, or still haven't worked up the nerves to face those crowds, here are 11 things that you'll definitely see at comic con:
1. Crowds
Like I said, it's a lot of people. Factor in the fact that many of those people have large and bulky costumes that have a tendency to knock into people. Expect lots of bumping.
2. Large branded displays
The hottest and biggest brands want to make sure they're noticeable in the crowds via huge signs, flashy displays, and photo opps.
3. Brands that don't have anything to do with comic con
With the large amount of foot traffic that occurs at the convention center, many brands want to get their hands on New York Comic Con, even if they have nothing to do with comics. Many just try turning their products into something relevant, like Jelly Belly comic art and the Suicide Squad branded Chevrolet.
4. Panels
Panels are a big part of comic cons, which people sometimes wait hours in line to get into. They feature beloved writers, producers, and actors both from today and decades past.
5. Art
Available for purchase so you can fill your walls with images of your favorite superheroes and characters.
6. Movie Props
That make every fanboy/fangirl stop in their tracks.
7. Interactive streaming
A few podcasts and stations were live-streaming in an effort to engage both their listeners and the crowds at NYCC. In this photo, Adult Swim booth was hosting karaoke.
8. Cosplay materials
Fabric, period coats, elf ears, tiny hats - there were many booths dedicated to help supply the most avid cosplayers.
9. Video games
Many exhibition booths sold old school video games, acting as a blast from the past.
10. Comics
Obviously.