Fan Conventions: How Deep does the Rabbit Hole Go?
It’s difficult to express in words just how much fun a fan convention is if you’ve never experienced one. This weekend was my first “official” con.
Want to sit in on a panel discussion about UFOs and cryptids? Room 12, across the hall. Argue about Star Wars vs. Star Trek? Room 8 at 5:30, bruh.
We sat in on panels about the proper use of blasters vs. swords in LARP sessions and the future of the Disney theme parks.
Are you worried about Grogu’s college years? “The Book of Mandalorian” panel was full of people speculating and biting their nails.
There was literally something for everyone. There were gaming rooms, both tabletop and video. Voice-acting classes. Crafting tables for the kids. Classes on self-publishing. Improv classes for RPGs. How to start a Podcast.
One room had a spaceship crew simulator with a dude dressed as a Federation admiral in command.
The vendor hall was full of excellent memorabilia and hand-made crafts. I could have spent a lottery’s worth of winnings and still come out wanting.
One hall had a “what’s under his kilt” competition that required an adult ID. Amanda started to go in, but I reminded her that Grogu’s fate was still hanging in the balance and demanded discussion. These are serious times, you know.
All-in-all, we were awake for 24 hours straight, which I didn’t think was even possible anymore. And were never bored once. Being surrounded by fans of all ages decked out in their cosplay finery, felt like being among friends.
