Recently I had the pleasure of attending my second Tekkoshocon in a row in Pittsburgh, PA. Tekkoshocon is an annual anime and superhero convention, or "Con," that has counterparts all over the United States and even the world, creating a safe space for dedicated nerds like me, and casual nerds or newcomers alike, to gather, share common interests, and generally just have a good time. So what is it about this popular phenomenon that makes it so powerful?
1. They are a gathering of like-minded individuals that all share common interests.
The original issue with being a nerd way back when was isolation: feeling excluded because you were different or “odd” just because of what you are passionate about. Cons create an environment of acceptance, where everyone understands what it feels like to be left out or bullied, and so they accept each other. If superheroes are what you’re into, they’ve got it. Anime more your thing? There are plenty of other "otakus" there who you can connect with. There’s really something for everyone, whatever your bag is.
2. Even though everyone has similar interests, they all have unique versions of those interests.
Cosplay is a word derived from “costume” and “play” and is basically defined as crafting or obtaining a costume and dressing up as your favorite character(s) from TV shows, movies, books, games, etc. that you like. It is basically Halloween but way more fun. You get to embody that character and it is a way to connect to your favorite characters that is unique and empowering.
4. It is empowering.
Especially with the cosplay element, there is a kind of empowerment that goes along with attending a Con. Concerning cosplay, you not only connect with your favorite characters in a deeper way, but you connect with your fellow nerds in a deeper way. People connect with the fact that you are portraying their favorite characters, and there is this awesome phenomenon where they want to take pictures with you. It can be a huge ego boost and a pay-off for the hard work you have put into your cosplay. Besides cosplay, the general acceptance you feel at Cons is empowering as well. You feel like you’ve found where you belong.
5. It is like a mini-vacation (with staying in hotel rooms and such).
Cons usually last a weekend and it is easier to get a hotel and stay close-by to the action. It feels great to get away from everyday life and responsibilities, relax, and just take a mini-vacation to play and be a kid again.
6. There is so much stuff to buy.
Conventions of this nature are well-known in the nerd community for being prime spots for getting merchandise you may not find in other places. Sometimes it can be a bit pricey, but other times you find a great deal on that figurine you've had your eye on for a while. Souvenirs are always fun, and Cons are a great place to find unique items.
7. There is the chance to make new friends.
I have met some of the coolest people by attending Cons. They are a great activity to enjoy with old friends, but also an amazing opportunity to meet people just like you and form lifelong friendships. Friends are the best souvenirs to take home from a Con.
8. You can broaden your horizons.
If you are unfamiliar with the Con scene or new to it, they are a great way to get into new "fandoms," or communities of fellow nerds who are passionate about a variety of topics. Maybe there's a new show you haven't gotten a chance to get into yet that's different from your usual interests. Cons are a great place to share differing interests and learn about exciting new things that others may know a lot more about than you do.
9. If you are an artist, it is a way to get your art out there and connect with your admirers.
Most, if not all, Cons have a spot in the "Dealer's Room" or "Exhibition Hall" known as an "Artist's Alley." It is here that artists can come share their "fanart," or works based off popular media, and sell that work to other fans. This is a great way for budding as well as seasoned artists to get their work noticed and to connect with other fans that are passionate about the same topics, as well as their art.
10. You can meet your heroes—voice actors.
There are many entertaining and informative panels you can attend at Cons, but some of the best moments are fulfilling your fan dreams. Special guests attend Cons as well, which are usually voice actors or other big names of the industry. They hold panels and autograph signings and it can really make your whole year to get the opportunity to meet your heroes. It is quite the inspiration.
11. You take it home with you.
The best part about Cons is also the worst part about Cons: it is what Con-goers call "Con Withdrawal." It is that period between Cons where you adjust back into the real world. It's not all bad though. In fact, it's a world of good. The feelings you bring home with you are ones of inspiration, self-confidence, and joy at the fun you have experienced. You bring this energy back into the "real world" and your daily life and it fills you up and helps the average grind run smoother, until the day that the next Con comes, and you can slip back into that magical realm once more.
