NEW YORK (WCS 880) — New York Comic Con announced Tuesday it will be canceling the in-person convention at the Jacob K. Javits Center this year and move online amid the coronavirus pandemic.
ReedPop, producer of the annual pop culture event, has instead partnered with YouTube to livestream scheduled panels from Oct. 8 through 11 – similar to how San Diego Comic Con held its virtual events.
In a statement, ReedPop thanked convention-goers and fans for their support as it worked with New York City to try and make something happen, that now seems impossible.
“While we’d much rather be giving you an update today on badges going on sale, it likely comes as no surprise that New York Comic Con 2020’s physical event at the Javits Center will not be able to run as intended. We very sincerely appreciate your patience as we worked with the Javits and local officials to figure out what, if anything, could go on as planned this October. NYCC doesn’t stop just because we can’t do what we’ve done in the past. Instead, we look to the future,” organizers wrote in an email to fans.
Online events will be hosted on a new website hub called New York Comic Con’s Metaverse.
“While we won’t be able to geek out with each other in person this year, we’re working hard to make sure Metaverse August and October will deliver unique experiences to help fill some of the longing we all have to get back to a convention,” organizers said.
In addition to panels, fans will also be able to shop for Comic Con exclusives that are normally sold on the Show Floor and Artist Alley.
ReedPop has encouraged fans to take part in the virtual marketplace and support exhibitors and creators, many of whom are local small businesses that have been hurt by the coronavirus shutdown.
“The loss of virtually all conventions in 2020 has leveled a devastating blow on their businesses. We ask that you continue to support them, and we will be bringing new opportunities and platforms that will make it even easier for you to shop their products and artwork straight from your home,” ReedPop said.
ReedPop’s first Metaverse event will be held August 13 through 16.