As most people are aware, next weekend is Easter weekend, but it is also time again for ICON Comics & Games Convention! According to their website, ICON has been running since 1992! This makes it South Africa’s longest running comics, gaming and popular culture convention (and a year older than me!)
Last year was the first time I had ever attended ICON and I had no idea what to expect. This year I am better prepared and have actually managed to plan a bit of a budget.
The Deats:
Dates and Times:
- Saturday 20 April 2019
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday 21 April 2019
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday 22 April 2019
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Cost:
- Adult Day Pass = R125
- Adult Weekend Pass = R250
- Child Day Pass = R65
- Child Weekend Pass = R125
What can be expected for this year’s ICON?
It is once again being hosted at Emperors Palace, but it is no longer at the Red Roman Shed. It will now be held in their conference/expo area. ICON has also once again arranged an array of guests and has planned live panel presentations. Plus they will be hosting the World Cosplay Summit (WCS) Reginal Qualifier as well to decide which of our cosplayers will get to compete in the WCS in Japan!
Last year’s WCS team
It was the very first time SA had been included in WCS. I believe that ICON will be picking winners for the next two WCS, so for both 2019 and 2020! So needless to say, I am really looking forward to the cosplay that shall at ICON. I was really impressed with the amount of anime based cosplay last year and I know there will be again this year too.
I am also really looking forward to seeing one of my fave anime stores and getting more posters. I swear, I am addicted and wall space may soon be becoming a problem. I am also curious to see what other geeky wares and merch will be on offer. I’m curious to see the roleplay and tabletop gaming that will be going on as well.
I am looking forward to the change in placement and feel that the conference area will offer a warmer layout. The shed was dark and cold and also a tad on the smaller side. I can’t wait to get to taking photos of the cosplayers and their characters. Plus a little birdie has mentioned that there is a chance that there shall be anime screenings available too!
All About Anime and Manga 
Your thoughts?