I am an avid convention goer, and I have attended at least one a year for the past 6 years now. Of course, I usually just attend the typical comic conventions or pop culture conventions as a fan but this year, at Florida’s own Megacon, I was able to work as a crew member. This gave me a wonderful new look on conventions that I never really saw before. Conventions are giant families for anyone and everyone.

Conventions goers are part of this big dysfunctional loving family, which is an amazing thing. It is one of the only places on Earth where you can cosplay, or dress up as anybody they want to be and are completely accepted by everyone there. The reason for that is because a lot of people are dressed up the exact same way! Whether you want to be a wolf, your favorite “Star Wars” character, or someone you completely made up, you are welcome. Not only are you welcome, but you are also beloved because someone there will be a fan of you no matter what. No worries if you dress up as the exact same character as someone else because they will love the spin that you put on it.

This isn’t just about cosplay, though, because there are more people that attend these conventions than just cosplayers. Artists, writers, dreamers, kids, adults, seniors, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities. Even as an employee I felt more like a son or daughter of the convention itself. Everyone there made me feel welcome and loved. I also don’t want to only include only comic and pop culture conventions. There are tons of things that have conventions attached to them. Baking, jewelry, film, technology, video games, toys, farming, etc. You name it, there is probably a convention for it. Conventions are truly a place for everyone.

I have never felt alienated or alone at a convention either, and I don’t think there are many who have. There is a lot of initial nervousness and intimidation, but those are quickly replaced with joy and wonder. Everyone I have ever met at a convention (including celebrities) have been beyond friendly and helpful. Of course, there will always be people who are having a bad day or impatient, and you get the bad end of that stick. What family isn’t complete with a little rudeness though? However, I think the majority of the people there are just like you. They are looking for like-minded people who want to celebrate the things they love.

Conventions are somewhere I think anyone could go and enjoy at least a little bit. Everyone from my 6-year-old cousin to my 65-year-old grandmother could find something to love and enjoy. They also provide a place for those who may not have someone close in their family. For those people who may have lost family, never had any or just isn’t that close to them anymore, a convention gives them a family of people who love and accept them. I know conventions are not your real family, and they will never replace the real love of that, conventions might be a close second. They make people smile, help those who need help, are open to one and all and they are a crazy and dysfunctional time. If you get the chance, go to a convention. Have a family reunion.