SEATTLE — Thousands of fans are excited as the Emerald City Comic Con makes its return this weekend.
The event was postponed and then canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19, but organizers expect big crowds this year.
Fans and exhibitors are thrilled for the return.
“We do a lot of online sales. Most of our sales are online, so we didn’t do too bad, but we are very excited to be back in person again,” said Erin Dudley, an exhibitor setting up at the Washington Convention Center.
For those who sell or just like to play with lightsabers, the event is the place to be.
Dudley and her crew sell the fun version of the Star Wars weapon.
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It took a lot of planning to bring the event back.
“It’s also great because they actually, they get to handle our product. They get to pick up the sabers, they get to play with them,” Dudley said.
And because the event was scrapped in 2020, many are looking for some excitement.
“There has not been a whole ton of fun lately, and that’s our business, you know, and come take a vacation and spend time with the things you’re most passionate about,” said Kristina Rogers, ECCC Event Director.
As the weekend approaches, tables and entryways are being set up, and stalls are being built on the floor of one hall.
Attendees can expect panels, sales booths, games and even stars seen in movies and television.
There is a demand for tickets, but with COVID-19 and the new omicron variant (first detected in South Africa), organizers are playing it safe.
“One of the measures we’ve taken is limiting the capacity this year. So, we’re expecting 50,000 people across the weekend, about 14,000 people a day,” Rogers said.
Even the way displays are arranged will allow for distancing.
The event will run through Sunday.
“Smaller than other shows, but a little bit back to our roots. It’s the Emerald City of 10 years ago, and we’re just fine with that,” Rogers said.
For attendees, proof of vaccination or a negative test will be required, and everyone will have to mask up.
Signs will be posted at the event to remind people to do their part to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
COVID-19 testing will also be made available during the event. There will be a site at the Paramount Theatre for those who want to test before entering.
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