Comic book conventions come in all shapes and sizes, and whether you've heard about it or not, there's probably one near you!
Conventions that explored the relationship between comic book creators and their audiences first came to prominence with “ComicCon ‘64.” With little more than one hundred attendees in the beginning, comic book conventions have grown to unfettered heights in the last few decades. Packed convention centers have become the norm, and the talent that headlines these larger than life events is like "Coachella" for nerds.
The most recent "San Diego ComicCon: International" featured panels of A-list celebrities as well as the most talented in the filmmaking business. At any convention of this sort, however, it is not the celebrity presence that creates such an amazingly, sweaty environment-- it's the creators. They've made the content that interests huge companies and celebrities in the first place, that of which hold the interest of most fans.
It's rare that a creator begins their career with an avid fan base as well as companies ready to offer them huge quantities of money, so it's platforms like "Comic Con" that help get the word out. Helping these up and coming artists connect with prospective fans is what gave rise to the local comic convention. There is one in every state, if you live in the United States, and many in most countries. The UK has the "London Comic Con," while states like Georgia have "Dragon Con." Even Canada has "Fan Expo."
Although the "ComicCon" name brand has become international, there are many other "Con's" that center on a plethora of subjects, and at every one there's something catered for anyone who attends. If you're interested in books, there is undoubtedly a panel you can attend that will leave you with expanded horizons along with lists upon lists of books to read in the future. If you're interested in video games, you can count on being introduced to the beta version of your new favorite game. Even if a convention for 'nerds' has never interested you in your life, there are hundreds of things going on, and I mean hundreds, every day and at least one of those things is bound to interest you. If you happen to stop by one of these events and nothing immediately interests you, I can't promise you will have found your new passion, but I can confidently say your interest will be piqued.
