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Comic book, film, television, and other popular culture fanatics return to the annual WonderCon in Anaheim to celebrate and share their fandom love across multiple media platforms. The rainy Easter weekend could not water down the dedicated attendees and professional exhibitors from showing up in droves at the Anaheim Convention Center, conveniently located just a hop, skip, and jump from the Disneyland Resort.
Artist Alley came up with unique art pieces inspired by favorite characters and stories designed in original art styles. Crafts and skills ranging from 3D printing, watercolor, DIY, leather, crochet, puppets, teas, and more abound the endless labyrinth of the exhibit floor.
Professional vendors were stocked with shirts, sweaters, books, posters, comics, patches, stickers, plastic building blocks, keychains, plush, vintage collectibles, funko, figurines, and other trinkets that connect to individual interests.
Cosplay groups and gaming tables set up to spark the imagination in social gathering settings. Nostalgia builds up upon meeting favorite actors and creators from childhood movies and television at booths for personal autographs and photographs.
Panel rooms provide an inside glimpse and closer study of various subject matters between moderators and guest speakers. Topics range from inclusion and equality, parental styles in animated series “Bluey”, culinary dishes from media, the production greenlight for 1990’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle” live-action movie, the relationship between Universal Studios and Universal Monster pictures, real-life practical implications in “Godzilla” and “Ghostbusters”, upcoming exhibits at Comic-Con Museum in San Diego, and sneak peek at Sideshow Collectibles, Hasbro, and McFarlane Toys. Even industry professionals discussing their field of expertise to inspire the next generation of writers, directors, artists, cosplayers, and other creative endeavors.
Higher expected attendence panels included the 30th Anniversary of Disney’s “Gargoyles”, previews and discussion with creative teams behind “The Stranger: Chapter 1”, “Immaculate”, “Boy Kills World”, “Chucky”, and “Star Trek: Discovery”. The high anticipation and current attention to the voice cast of “X-Men ’97” warranted a bigger room to meet demand.
The Masquerade puts the spotlight on cosplayers for the celebrated costume contest judged by industry professionals awarded with grand prizes. The event was hosted by Ashley Eckstein, best known for Her Universe fashion line and the voice of Ahsoka Tano from animated Star Wars series.
WonderCon in Anaheim Convention Center continues to be a suitable anchor home for fandom devotees serving Orange County. Accessible to neighboring patrons from nearby Los Angeles and San Diego County locals. Fitting comfortably as a tourist destination adjacent to Disneyland Resort. Food trucks outside the convention caters to hungry customers. Wide open walkways and lobbies provide amble space to walk, meet and greet, and take photos.
The exhibition hall is packed with vendors to feed the creative spark from within. And panel rooms provide space for intellectual discussions, share passionate conversations, and showcases past, present, and future pop culture influences. All this to celebrate an industry full of artists, creators, and dreamers. WonderCon returns next year Friday, March 28 to Sunday, March 30, 2025. Visit www.comic-con.org to learn more.
