Emerald City Comic Con kicks off Thursday

If you walk around downtown Seattle this weekend, chances are you’ll run into a few characters you might know.

That’s because Emerald City Comic Con kicks off Thursday!

The convention uniting fans from games, comics, movies, anime, and much more is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, and in the newly renovated Seattle Convention Center.

For some, getting to dress up is a big reason for attending.

“People like me put a lot of time in this for fun. We don’t get paid to do this. There are grants and contests and things, but this is a labor of love and to be able to have the authentic connections.” Johnathan Lund said.

Cosplay can take a lot of time, energy, and effort. From modern techniques to create elaborate 3D printed costumes, to modest finds and hacks.

“These are tulle wings and I took dollar tree petals and wrote portions of Altaria’s move set, parts of the poke decks,” said Emma Goering.

This year, you could meet up with the Hulk’s Mark Ruffalo, sit in on a panel, and buy exclusive merchandise.

For some, the sense of community and belonging is what draws them in.

“Being able to go and be surrounded by people who are there to love and appreciate things,” said Walter Lutsch. “When I go to a convention everybody is excited, they’re there to appreciate and truly love what we’re doing.”

Comic Con runs from Thursday, Mar. 2 to Sunday, Mar. 5. Each Day is packed with activities that will keep you busy for hours. From panels, games, shopping, and even character meet-ups.

Don’t forget, it’s family-friendly too. Lori Bryant who will be Princess Peach, along with her husband Doug as Mario, and son as Luigi, will be sharing hacks for families dressing up.

“I’m excited because I’m helping run two panels: one’s for helping parents who want to do cosplay with their kids, so I’m giving tips on how to do costumes for kids whether you buy them or make them, and what stuff you can do especially for growing kids,” said Lori Bryant.

It’s not too late to buy your ticket! Head to Emeraldcitycomiccon.com and you just never know what you might see this weekend.

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