The galaxy has converged at McCormick Place in Chicago for Star Wars Celebration, bringing in unprecedented crowds eager to be the first to see this year’s exclusive offerings and content.
The halls were filled with countless surprises, including an in depth look at the upcoming, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, beautiful artwork, as well as more exclusive merchandise than you can shake Rey’s staff at.
Lines were everywhere, creating a frenzy of fans across the entire show floor. From Hasbro to Her Universe, there wasn’t a lull or quiet moment to be found.
The Star Wars Celebration Store contained lines that consumed some convention goers entire day, bringing in droves of Star Wars fans desperately trying to get their hands on the latest exclusive merchandise.
The day was a preview of what’s to come, with no panels, which will commence in day two with the highly anticipated Episode IX trailer and reveal.
One of the most memorable moments leading into the first day was the completion of the Star Wars Celebration mural, encompassing the entire universe in one epic painting. Though there will be a final piece revealed for Episode IX, the mural brings forth some of the franchise’s most memorable heroes, moments, and key elements.
Day 2 brings us big details, with panels coming out in full force. There is plenty of exciting news ahead. Make sure to stay tuned for every bit of Celebration, as we will be there covering each day. Until then, may the Force be with you!
From a tropical twist on Return of the Jedi, to a more conventional promotional tee, there’s plenty for everyone at this year’s con.
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. There are commemorative shirts, plushes, jackets, and more up for grabs.
Supplies are limited, with long standby wait times to boot, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly. Take a look at some of the exclusive items below and stay tuned for more from Star Wars Celebration Chicago!
Wailua Falls in Kauai is a paradise (photo by Greg Aragon)
Hawaii is a great place to visit no matter the season. The islands are always warm and inviting, like a swaying palm tree. But one of my favorite times to go is spring, just before the big summer rush. With this in mind, I would like to talk a little about the islands of Maui, Lanai and Kauai.
To me, Maui is one of the most beautiful places on earth. One of my favorite spots is Iao Valley State Park, located in the center of Maui. This magical, 4,000-acre reserve is carpeted with thick, tropical vegetation and guarded by towering mountain peaks. It is home to one of Maui’s most popular landmarks, the 1,200-ft Iao Needle, a giant jagged rock shooting above the Iao stream.
A sacred, historical place in Hawaiian history, the Iao Valley is a great place for a nature hike, as there are well-maintained trails leading to the needle above and to an old village below. Near Iao Valley is Makena Beach, Maui’s largest beach and one of its best spots for swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, sunbathing and strolling along white sand stretching nearly a mile long and 100 yards wide.
One of my favorite spots to stay on Maui is Hotel Wailea, an authentic tropical paradise, surrounded by palm and avocado trees, rolling hills, thick gardens, waterfalls and streams, and lots of Hawaiian charm. Nestled on 15 acres, Hotel Wailea (www.hotelwailea.com) is located a few blocks above the beach and offers an intimate, romantic atmosphere not found at larger, busier resorts. The hotel also boasts a full-service spa and fitness center, a sparkling pool, an award-winning restaurant, complimentary breakfast, and an efficient shuttle service to and from the beaches and shopping areas.
Across the Auau Channel from Maui is the remote island of Lanai. On my last visit here, I stayed at the enchanting Lanai Hotel (www.hotellanai.com). Built as a retreat in 1923 by pineapple pioneer James Dole, the inn sits on the edge of town in a lush garden setting, beneath tall Norfolk pine trees. It features 10 charming guestrooms, a gourmet restaurant, and lots of Hawaiian atmospheres and a romantic plantation feel.
Shipwreck Beach on Lanai is a hidden treasure (photo by Greg Araogn)
While on the island I rented a Jeep Wrangler and explored mysterious Shipwreck Beach. To get there I drove up a mountainous road lined with volcanic rock and red clay. In a few miles I came to a narrow turnout, where the road became a tunnel of trees, paved with deep sand and bumpy rock, requiring a four-wheel drive.
For the next 1.6 miles I bounced along the northeast coast with intermittent views of the ocean and an outline of Maui. The road ended at Big Rock, where I parked and continued on foot over black volcanic rock and sand, and then through warm tropical water until I discovered a an old sunken ship about 100 yards off the shore. Leaning in a reef, the rusting vessel, built in the 1940s, was once an oil tanker that the navy unsuccessfully tried to sink after WWII. Today, it provides a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to Lanai.
Kauai is another tiny island full of incredible beauty. While here, I stayed at the (www.kauaibeachresorthawaii.com). Set on 25 acres of lush Hawaiian gardens, the hotel is surrounded by palm trees, pools and the Pacific Ocean.
During my stay at the Kauai Beach Resort I loved walking along the shoreline, watching colorful fish swim through coral in the emerald colored water. On my walks I admired the rocky outlines of the islands many mountains, discovered a small, hidden canal flowing through dense vegetation next to the resort, and encountered the ubiquitous wild island chicken.
A highlight of my Kauai getaway was a Sunset Dinner Sail catamaran ride along the legendary Napali Coast. Led by Holo Holo Charters (www.holoholokauaiboattours.com), this memorable journey cruised past legendary Hawaiian landscapes made famous in movies such as Jurassic Park, King Kong, and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
With its jagged peaks, secluded beaches, lost sea caves and sapphire waters, it’s easy to see why Hollywood directors regularly pay $10,000 per day to film along the Napali Coast. During my sail I saw wild goats, sea turtles, dolphins and lots of colorful fish. The voyage was topped-off by a great lasagna dinner while watching the sun set into the sea.
For more information on visiting Maui, Lanai, Kauai, or any of the Hawaiian Islands, visit www.gohawaii.com/lanai.
The unbelievably successful 7-time Tony Award-winning musical CATS has purred its way to Costa Mesa at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Okay, I won’t do any more puns, but I couldn’t resist at least one. It’s fitting though, as CATS is still a cherished and well-respected in the Broadway musical scene, it’s still pretty darn silly. At times Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS is beautiful, dramatic and simply breathtaking, but there are those moments when just have to chuckle to yourself at the ridiculousness of it all. From the introductions to The Old Gumbie Cat andThe Rum Tum Tugger to Rumpleteazer and Skimbleshanks, CATS is a musical that actually takes itself too seriously at times but finds countless other redeeming factors that have helped CATS become the icon it is today.
It feels a bit odd to be writing a review of a near 40-year-old musical that has been seen by over 73 million theatergoers worldwide. I mean, everyone knows CATS, right? Truth be told, I had never seen it nor listened to the Broadway cast recording until this revival tour. Of course we all know “Memory”, but I didn’t even know the plot, or lack thereof. This is the first tour of the first-ever Broadway revival of CATS, and it is clear that an enormous amount of love a dedication went into this new production! It’s quite a unique show, but is no doubt not for everyone.
CATS is more than just a musical, it’s a feeling; a show that doesn’t follow any specific narrative story but concentrates on cleverly written characters, uhm… cats, and their bizarro lives on the streets. It’s a masterfully crafted ballad of interpreted dance and a variety of musical numbers that are quintessentially Andrew Lloyd Webber. Moments of pure PHANTOM OF THE OPERA escape from the orchestra pit with subtle overture themes that predates PHANTOM and presents an adolescence of familiar chords that follow Webber through future masterpieces.
Through glorious ‘80s synthesizers and keyboard pre-sets, the audience is introduced to the world of CATS by an overture that is reminiscent to the likes of Disneyland’s Main Street Electrical Parade or perhaps EPCOT Center’s idealistic look at modernism through song. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s orchestration throughout the entirety of the musical is painfully dated at times, yet wildly nostalgic too. CATS must clearly benefit from a monstrous amount of nostalgia as this revival makes no effort to update to the 20th century. I’m sure to most this is good, and I understand the necessity to preserve these iconic shows from too much change, but the kids in front of me made in it perfectly clear that the show won’t appeal much to a new audience.
Following a plethora of uniquely differentiating cats, the musical follows a group of Jellicle Cats. Don’t know what those are? It’s okay… they have a song for it. Each cat with its own individuality, the show progresses through all sorts of songs including the mesmerizing “Memory”. Along the way are masterfully choreographed numbers that are remarkable. Every cast member appeared flawless with their movements. In all honesty, I think I may have enjoyed a show of just the cats dancing to the song just as much. The dancing is the real gem of CATS, and this production couldn’t be any better when it comes to the choreography.
I don’t think one can get through a CATS review without reviewing “Memory”. Grizabella, the ousted cat that is given the honor to sing this musical juggernaut, was played by Keri Rene Fuller. A voice of the Gods. No, really… her performance could not be considered anything less than perfection.
While I can’t believe it took me this long to see CATS, it’s not really up my alley. I’m thrilled that I have finally experienced it as CATS is still a beautiful show filled with incredible talent. It’s still incredibly important to the musical world, but I am not sure how much I’ll be gravitating back to it when it returns. It is a must see at least once in your life, and maybe you will fall in love with it list the rest of the world has over the years. Those that have already seen CATS and loved the show before, this production is not one to miss.
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The creative team for this new production of CATS includes John Napier (Scenic & Costume Design), Natasha Katz (Lighting Design), Mick Potter (Sound Design), with choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, based on the original choreographer by Gillian Lynne, and direction by Trevor Nunn.
CATS is playing through April 14th. Tickets start at $29 and are available for purchase at SCFTA.org.
This show has been self-described as a cross between STOMP and BLUE MAN GROUP. Now that’s a very fair assessment. You’ll find percussion, electronic video screens, dance, colorful lighting, and playful humor. This presentation sends the audience head-on into an energetic whirlwind of psychedelic proportions.
If you or anyone you know have been to any concert-type show along the Las Vegas strip, then you know what to expect. But for those who have but felt some segments of the show you could have lived without, MAYUMANA answers the call by trimming out the fat and giving you the best of Vegas without being in Vegas.
What you won’t find is the mess left behind or monologue interludes often seen after a BLUE MAN GROUP show. That is actually a blessing in disguise as it helps make this concert even more accessible to all audience members without a language barrier. Although BLUE MAN GROUP are silent characters, it is still anchored by their show pauses that try to convey a story, similar to JABBAWOCKEEZ.
Every talented person you see on stage has something to contribute as a team and showcasing their own unique abilities that scream “this is why they are in this show”. They’ve taken everyday mundane noises that most people take for granted and develop a catchy rhythm to make you want to dance in your seat. Starting slowly with an innocent glass in a tub of water to a group simply sitting at a table. Sneezes, snaps, slaps, and smoking becomes instruments. You can also expect trash bins and oil drums to get in on the act. Even tap dancing in snorkel fins and using their bodies like a shadow puppet becomes a visual spectacle. A found object that when placed against a performer’s heart, projects a dance expression that is unique and shared amongst each person.
The grand finale becomes one big bright drum circle that gets everyone in the mood to clap your hands and feel the rhythm. The theme of CURRENTS seems to surround itself in the battle between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. That did not seem apparent with the exception of a dance battle brawl. But that is inconsequential. A stunning experience to from start to (unfortunate) finish that is not to be missed.
Disney’s “The Lion King, directed by Jon Favreau (“The Jungle Book”), journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother—and former heir to the throne—has plans of his own. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take back what is rightfully his.
Staying true to the classic story, director Jon Favreau utilizes pioneering filmmaking techniques to bring the iconic characters to the big screen in a whole new way. Featuring the voices of Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon, Disney’s “The Lion King” opens in U.S. theaters on July 19, 2019.
Cast: Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, Billy Eichner, John Kani, John Oliver, Florence Kasumba, Eric André, Keegan-Michael Key, JD McCrary, Shahadi Wright Joseph, with Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and James Earl Jones.
Director: Jon Favreau
Producers: Jon Favreau, Jeffrey Silver, Karen Gilchrist
Beginning NOW, Guests who visit the Disneyland Resort and choose to purchase Disney MaxPass to maximize their day will now be able to make digital Disney FASTPASS selections for select entertainment in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, right from their smartphones!
Using the official Disneyland mobile app, Guests who purchase Disney MaxPass can now make FASTPASS selections for the breathtaking nighttime water show, “World of Color,” at Disney California Adventure park and the dazzling “Fantasmic!” nighttime spectacular at Disneyland Park. This new ability to make digital Disney FASTPASS selections for these entertainment offerings add to the other benefits of Disney MaxPass, which include the ability to make FASTPASS selections for select attractions right from your smartphone, as well as download an unlimited number of Disney PhotoPass photos from the day.
Available as an add-on to a theme park ticket, Disney MaxPass helps maximize your day to save time and experience more! Be sure to download the Disneyland app (ios) to have a one-stop shop in the palm of your hand for tons of great planning features, including attraction wait times, character appearance schedules, entertainment show times, and even further saving time by using mobile ordering at more than 20 locations around the resort!
Guests are strongly advised to check the day’s FASTPASS availability and other Park details before purchasing Disney MaxPass or using a Park ticket with Disney MaxPass as FASTPASS selections for your preferred attractions or entertainment may not be available at the time of purchase or use. FASTPASS selections are limited and availability is not guaranteed. FASTPASS selections may be made only while you are in the Parks, and valid Park admission required to make FASTPASS selections in the applicable Park. The Disney MaxPass benefit will expire at the end of the day of use. Disney MaxPass is nonrefundable, nontransferable, may not be redeemed for cash and is subject to other restrictions. Price, terms, entitlements, attractions and entertainment are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the PhotoPass terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos captured during the day your Disney MaxPass is used must be linked to your Disney account and may be downloaded pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.
Avengers: Endgame is around the corner, and to celebrate, the stars of the latest Marvel adventure gathered at the Disneyland Resort to kick off an epic charity event benefiting seriously ill children worldwide. The Walt Disney Company and its corporate partners donated $5 million to children’s hospitals alongside some of “Earth’s Mightiest Heroes”.
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The kickoff event this past Friday at Disney California Adventure sent the message to children worldwide that the world of Marvel wants to give back to all those they inspire most. The kickoff is the beginning of a larger event called Avengers: The Universe Unites.
The stars gathered with the children and the media, sharing in a sensational and awe inspiring ceremony. The children received gifts, intimate moments with the stars of the film, and a chance to be in the spotlight. “It’s incredibly important to be here today,” said Captain Marvel star, Brie Larson. “These are the kids that inspire us. It’s been incredible to be able to help create a symbol for them but really it’s their strength and perseverance that gives so much meaning and inspiration to the characters that we play”.
Paul Rudd, who plays Ant Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, also took a moment to point out they are not just doing this for the children, but for all the families that share in the child’s struggle against illness. “When a child is sick, it’s not just the child, it’s the entire family that’s going through it”. For Rudd, it’s just as important to provide a foundation of fun and positive reinforcement for everyone involved in that struggle.
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It’s safe to say the Avengers have taken on a new mission and in a way, are saving the children of the world through a means greater than any box office figure could shake a stick at, one that inspires and helps remind us all that heroes are real. “It’s the best thing in the world”, said Rudd.
Earlier this week, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa gave a royal welcome to the brand new character dining experience, “Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures”. As you can see from the video below, it was a magical and charming debut.
The breakfast features a grand three-course breakfast in the prestigious Napa Rose. There will be treats for all ages, including specialty coffee for the adults in the group. Young princes and princesses will be welcomed to join in enchanting activities, focused on special traits and themes from iconic princesses Snow White, Jasmine, and many more. All guests will receive a final farewell, receiving an opportunity for a personal princess portrait moment that includes a special keepsake to cherish once the event concludes.
The adventure will be held Thursday through Monday between 8AM and 12PM.
Pricing Details can be found below
Adult: $125 (tax and gratuity not included)
Children (ages 3 to 9): $125 (tax and gratuity not included)
Please note:
Credit card guarantee is required for all reservations
Cancellations received within 24 hours of event start will be charged $10 per person, including no shows
Includes 5 hours of complimentary valet parking with validation at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Ashley Eckstein and the Her Universe Fashion Show are returning to San Diego Comic Con, announcing that submissions are now being accepted for this year’s big runway event. The show, which features one-of-a-kind geeky designs from young men and women across the globe, will once again be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel in San Diego. The event will be presented by Her Universe, Hot Topic, and DreamWorks Animation’s hit new series, She-Ra and the Princesses of Power.
“I am thrilled to join forces with DreamWorks Animation and the She-Ra team for this year’s Fashion Show. I am a huge fan of the series and everything it represents,” said Her Universe Founder Ashley Eckstein. “Inspired by She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, the theme of this year’s show will be The Power of Fashion.
“We are asking designers to submit designs that represent powerful characters, stories or properties, keeping with the rule that the design can be inspired by anything that is celebrated at San Diego Comic-Con,” Eckstein adds. “I’ve always equated an outfit to be like armor. Fashion should inspire and empower the wearer to conquer the day! Some call it a ‘power suit’ – we are asking designers to bring the power of geek couture!”
A look at some of Her Universe’s milestone designs from the 2018 Her Universe Fashion Show
The show’s previous theme focused on milestones, featuring landmark anniversaries for shows like The Powerpuff Girls, The Nightmare Before Christmas, as well as Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The show also included nods to franchises across popular culture, junior competitions, and surprise visits from some of Comic Con’s biggest stars.
The design competition submission process is now open, and Her Universe is calling upon all designers, 18 and older, to submit their work for consideration. Entries must be received by Friday, April 19th, 2019 at 11:59 PST. Late entries will not be considered. Finalists will be contacted by the event individually via email no later than April 26th, 2019.
For any aspiring designers under the age of 18, the Junior Fashion Design Competition will once again be hosted by Cartoon Network and allow junior designers the chance to strut their stuff on the runway. Junior designers between the ages of 6-17 are able to submit up to three designs for this year’s show, focused and inspired by the Steven Universe series.
Winners of the competition will be chosen solely from their designs and submissions. The winners will be given the chance to work on a collection for Steven Universe and the retailer BoxLunch.
The Her Universe Fashion show will take place on Thursday, July 18th!
The time has finally come, as Marvel Studios’ has announced that tickets for Avengers: Endgame are now on sale. The news broke out in the early hours of the morning, creating a mass frenzy for countless fans trying to get their hands on opening night tickets. Several websites experienced a huge spike in traffic, and in some cases, experienced site wide crashes as a result.
Along with standard tickets, fans will get the opportunity to take part in a massive MCU Marathon that includes all previously released films. For those who need a chance to recount, that is 22 movies all together. From Iron Man to Captain Marvel, the event’s run time is estimated at a staggering 55 hours and 42 minutes.
The annual pilgrimage of pop culture fanatics once again find their way back to Anaheim for one of the biggest events of the year: WonderCon! Grace in the beauty of encompassing yourself into your favorite genre of movies, television, art, collectibles, cosplay, apparel, photo ops, autographs, panel discussions, and of course, comic books!
Welcome to WonderCon 2019
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Star Wars cosplayers meet for a group photo op.
Can't have a comic convention without comic books!
Vintage toys to be admired and appreciated.
Mystery Boxes spark your curiosity.
Colorful plush and countless Anime figures.
Disney pins to add to your collection.
His pin collection Master Yoda will show.
Novelty shirts based on pop culture icons.
Exclusive Funko Pop exclusive releases coincide with comic-cons.
Cinema Makeup brushes up on special makeup demonstrations.
Step into the Stargate for a photo op.
Famous movie cars rev up for new exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum aptly named "Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy".
Between aisles on the exhibit floor.
Bumblebee stands guard over security details.
Deadpool meeting his hero, the Incredible Hulk.
Overlooking the gathering of cosplayers and food trucks.
The superhero suit on display at the DC booth for "Shazam!".
Sailor Moon cosplay group in the Masquerade contest.
Darth Vader visits the Lightsaber Guild during the Masquerade intermission.
Batman celebrates his 80th birthday by sharing bat signal lights and cupcakes!
WonderCon 2019 gives fans exclusive first looks and once in a lifetime opportunities before access to the general public. Main events include celebrating Batman’s 80th birthday with gifts for audience members in attendance, world premiere screenings and cast and crew panel discussions of Justice League vs. the Fatal Five and Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and cheering for your favorite contender in the Masquerade cosplay contest. The Alien movie franchise celebrates its 40th anniversary with a selection of originally produced short films set in the original Alien world. Meet new friends as you contemplate bizarre questions about your favorite stories and characters. Probe the mind of colorful characters down to a psychology. Meet and greet your favorite celebrities and commemorate those special moments with photos and autographs. Fans got behind the scenes look their favorite movies such as the visual team explaining the art style of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse”. Attendees were also the first to learn actor Mark Hamill would be voicing the new Chucky in the “Child’s Play” remake. Movie studios, publishers, artists, storytellers, actors, producers, writers, directors, and other professionals love to be among appreciative and receptive fans like the ones at comic-cons.
The following is a selection of some of our favorite cosplays during the 3-day spring weekend event.
WonderCon 2019 Cosplays
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Detective Dick Tracy and The Joker.
The new Joaquin Phoenix Joker.
"I am LEGO Batman!"
Into the Spider-Verse with Miles Morales.
Spider-Man vs. Doc Ock!
Mysterio emerges
The Joker mashes up with his greatest enemy.
Deadpool being... well, Deadpool.
Genderbend Doctor Strange is no match for mini-Doctor Strange.
Relax, the Guardians the WonderCon will save the day!
Grandmaster with his Melt Stick.
Thor: Strongest Avenger?
Cable with their trusty Corgi Deadpool
Edna Mode babysitting Baby Jack Jack.
Gizmoduck is on patrol.
Joe Dirt with his lucky meteor.
Westworld. Nothing can possibly go wroooo..&%#
Crew from the 1988 movie "Willow".
General Grievous sends his regards.
Locked and loaded with Zorg from the 1997 film "The Fifth Element".
Barf is his own best friend from the 1987 movie "Spaceballs".
John Hammond spared no expense with this T-rex.
Princess Aurora shares the spotlight with Moana.
Big Boy delivering the goods.
How did these stray cats get inside?
Maybe these old ladies are the cat owners.
A different set of twins with Chip and Dale.
Megatron shakes his fist.
So does the Toxic Avenger. Maybe he should go up against Thanos?
Time to phone home E.T. and fly a bike over the moon back to the future with Marty McFly!
If you’ve never been to a comic-con but have always been curious about attending, WonderCon is definitely a good step forward. The event is operated by the same folks that bring the grand daddy of all comic cons every year, San Diego Comic-Con. This is a smaller, but growing event with plenty to do and see to fill your whole weekend. Thank you WonderCon 2019 for an amazing weekend! We’ll see you next year April 10-12, 2020!
From a tropical twist on Return of the Jedi, to a more conventional promotional tee, there’s plenty for everyone at this year’s con.
