It’s hard to imagine a convention season that doesn’t spark excitement. Throughout the years, convention season has brought me many wonderful experiences, from proposing to my now wife on stage at the Rocky Horror Picture Show to creating incredible memories with not just meet-and-greets, but fellow con-goers. What’s always stood out is the sense of community that you leave with after every event.
With the birth of my daughter in December 2022, I began to look at conventions from a different perspective. Are these events set to become a bonding experience for years to come as a father? When preparing my coverage for this year’s Fan Expo Philadelphia, I took this approach of viewing the panels, show floor, and con experiences from both a parent’s and press attendee’s viewpoint, and the answer is a resounding yes.
For those unfamiliar, Fan Expo Philadelphia, formerly known as Wizard World, is a celebration of all things geek – a vibrant tapestry of pop culture woven with threads of comics, movies, TV shows, gaming, and more. A convention for all fandoms, attending this event feels like stepping into a realm where passions collide and imagination knows no bounds.
One of the most striking aspects of Fan Expo Philadelphia is its sheer scale. Spread across expansive convention halls, the event hosts a dizzying array of exhibitors, artists, and guests. From towering booths showcasing the latest comics and collectibles to an intimate artist alley buzzing with creativity, every corner offers a treasure trove for fans to explore. With the three-day setup, it’s easy to enjoy the convention and not feel rushed.
The guest lineup is always a highlight, and this year was no exception. With Fan Expo Philadelphia taking place from May 3-5, it was hard to ignore the elephant in the room that was May the 4th and Revenge of the 5th. Not only was this year’s event rich with stars from a galaxy far, far away, including Hayden Christensen, Rosario Dawson, and Ashley Eckstein, but reunions aplenty as the cast of The Office and National Lampoon’s Vacation attended the event. Along with covering the ongoings of the convention, I had the opportunity to take part in both photo-ops and autographs, and from that perspective, the staff was kind to the fact that I had a 1-year-old with me and assisted with shorter wait windows.
Panels and Q&A sessions provided unique insights into the creative process and allowed fans to interact with their favorite stars in a personal setting. From The Office cast chatting it up about their experience on the series and scripts that were never shot, to Hayden and Rosario celebrating birthdays and talking all things Star Wars, to a Charmed reunion, there were plenty of chances to hear from your favorite stars if the auto/photo prices were out of someone’s spending budget.
Cosplay is an integral part of the convention experience, and Fan Expo Philadelphia is a feast for the eyes in this regard. The dedication and craftsmanship on display are awe-inspiring, with cosplayers bringing iconic characters to life with remarkable attention to detail. The vibrant energy of the cosplay community adds an extra layer of excitement to the event, turning every hallway into a runway of imagination.
But beyond the glitz and glamour, Fan Expo Philadelphia also fosters a sense of community. Whether bonding over shared interests in line or striking up conversations with fellow enthusiasts, there’s a palpable sense of camaraderie that permeates the convention halls. It’s a place where friendships are forged and memories are made, creating lasting connections that transcend the boundaries of fandom.
Of course, no convention is without its challenges. The sheer size of Fan Expo Philadelphia can be overwhelming at times, with long lines and crowded spaces testing even the most patient of fans. However, the organizers have done an admirable job of managing the flow of traffic and ensuring that everyone has a chance to enjoy the experience.
Fan Expo Philadelphia is a must-visit for fans of pop culture. Whether you’re a die-hard comic book aficionado, a dedicated cosplayer, or simply someone looking to immerse themselves in the world of fandom, this convention has something for everyone. With its diverse offerings, vibrant atmosphere, and sense of community, it’s an event that captures the magic of being a fan in all its glory. As someone looking for an opportunity to create memories with their children or not, Fan Expo is not just an ideal convention to attend, but one that offers a lasting return on investment.
