With less than a month left in 2017 calendar, there’s only one thing to do.
That’s right, attend the next con. Full of lightsabers, white-faced clowns, and costumed superheroes, Wintercon transformed the third floor of Resorts World Casino in Jamaica, New York into a cosplayers’ safe haven. My experience at this Wintercon was my first, but, certainly, will not be my last.
A large event in its third year, Wintercon establishes its atmosphere as soon as I passed security. Artists’ and vendors’ tables were side by side sprawled across the carpet floor. A large stage stood against the far wall while a smaller, intimate space was cut out straight ahead from where I entered. Side doors led to an outdoor pavilion, which normally serves as a great spot to observe the horse race, but this particular weekend had it lined with cosplayers and a DJ.
There was a dance-off between members of a Jedi guild. Either due to a stronger sense of the force or some Jedi mind tricks, the dark side won.
Meanwhile, fans inside seated facing the large stage cheered as each member of the Blade Runner reunion walked to the panel table. The cast, full of wit and banter, not only reveled in talking about to the old days, but also discussed current aspects of the industry. When they finished, the audience gave a standing ovation. One second later, fans crowded the first row to take photos with their phones and cameras.
The biggest takeaway was the experience of being in the moment. Sci-Fi nerds, comic book geeks, and con superfans mingled to discuss costumes, tables, and events in the last geek festival of the year. My Christmas came early this year.