PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Pennsylvania Convention Center transformed into a playground of comics, games, and cosplay this weekend as thousands attended Fan Expo Philadelphia.
Ro, a visitor from New York, dressed as a Team Rocket villain from “Pokémon,” said it was all about the atmosphere. He was at PAX East in Boston at the end of March and kept his convention fever going with a first visit to Philly for Fan Expo.
“Honestly, like, it’s the vibe, the energy — it’s a great experience,” he said. “Like walked out, do some cosplay, see some fun, other cosplays, and everything else. It’s a great feeling.”
Chad from North Philadelphia has always been into Marvel comics and anime, but said those interests weren’t always well-received by his peers.
“I never got bullied, but I used to get clowned on. I would clown on people back, but I used to get clowned on for liking Spider-Man and anime.”
But at Fan Expo, now donning his own Spider-Man cosplay, Chad said he’s found a community.
“Now, seeing that a bunch of people like it and it’s the most popular thing, it’s like a surreal feeling,” he said. “It’s like: ‘Oh wow, little me would’ve loved this.’”
Brenna of Delaware said that what was once nerd culture is now mainstream.
“I used to get ridiculed for liking a lot of this stuff, especially in elementary and middle school,” she said. “ So, for it to be more accepted now, really great to bring all the fans together in one spot to go crazy.”
Beyond the anime, there was any Marvel comic or merch item you could think of. Same for Star Wars and other pop culture staples. A favorite for many was also artists’ alley, highlighting the work of local artists from the region.
The convention also featured comic and video game vendors, fan art booths, cosplay contests, and opportunities to meet some of the biggest stars in the industry. Celebrities such as Andy Serkis of Gollum fame in “The Lord of the Rings” and Giancarlo Esposito from “Breaking Bad” were among those in attendance.
Natalie, from Delaware, came to see Cristina Vee, a voice actor for “Sailor Moon” and a host of other anime series, cartoons, and video games.
“She’s really nice. She really wants to get to know you a lot… but it was a long line, though, I will say that. Worth it though.”
For many attendees, Fan Expo was about more than just merchandise or celebrity sightings, it was about finding a sense of community.