5 Things To Look Forward to at MegaCon Orlando

MegaCon Orlando knows how to deliver geekdom to Orlando, Florida. Last year I had an opportunity to attend the exciting convention which brings in thousands of fans from all over to celebrate comics, gaming, sci-fi, anime, movies, and much more. The four day weekend is packed with fandom-tastic panels, vendors, and festivals, there is so much to see and do. This year I'm heading to the convention again and excited to see what the event has in store! From panels and celebrity appearances to indie artists, here are a few things I'm looking forward to at MegaCon Orlando!

Vendor Room

You never know how a big showroom can be until you go to a convention like the Orange County Convention Center. Their marketplaces are practically the size of airplane hangers. From independent artists and comic book authors to photo-ops and tattoo parlor, the merchandise hall is a great place to get your bearings, see some amazing collectibles, and maybe add one or two or fifty to your collection. And like the costume display above from UD Replicas, you get to see and own some amazing replicas from your favorite fandoms.

Community Zone

The Vendor Room is also home to charities raising awareness for special causes. Several exhibitions offer fans the opportunity to have their photograph taken with a special prop or celebrity in exchange for a donation such as Dolorean Time Machines which benefits St. Jude's Children's Hospital. It's a great way for fans and organizations to create lasting memories and help make a difference.

Artists Alley

In the Artists Alley, you can always find some rising stars. Independent writers and artists showcase their latest work from comics and graphic novels to limited edition prints and original artwork. Last year I had the opportunity to meet a longtime friend and author Chris Widdop from the Velcro: The Ninja Kat series. I'm excited to see which local artists I can continue to support this time around!

Cosplayers Red Carpet

Conventions are not the same if there aren't cosplayers. Fans who craft their cosplay ware can strut on the red carpet and take photos with fans, and even  on the way to and from panels or the vendor room. Cosplayers are in for a real treat this year with the Master of Cosplay Southeast Qualifier, a costume contest where the entrants can compete for compete for the ultimate prize of $5,000 and to be crowned as FAN EXPO’s very first Master of Cosplay Champion. From Belle in Beauty and the Beast to Newt Scamander and Credence Barebone from Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them, you never know what you're going to see!

Panels & Appearances

MegaCon is full of epic events of all kinds from general attractions like Escape Room challenges and film festivals to special panels and appearances. Attendees can join experts and learn how to make their own graphic novels or be a star on YouTube. As well, celebrities from anime, film, tv, and cosplay also take part in Q&A sessions, photo-ops, and autograph signings. In 2017, I bid farewell to Stan Lee on his farewell tour, laughed along with the hilarious Tom Wilson from Back to the Future, and did the Time Warp with the Rocky Horror Picture Show cast. This year panels and appearances include: legendary actor Jeff Goldblum, actress and Doctor Who companion Catherine Tate, Game of Thrones star and Aquaman Jason Momoa, and The X-Files trio Annabeth Gish, Mitch Pileggi, and William B. Davis. Every year there's something different and new to experience, making it one of the most eventful and entertaining conventions around.