I wrote a board-game-centric review of the Long Beach Comic Expo here and I said it was a throwback to my youth. The LBCE reminded me of my time spent at the San Diego Comic Con, back before it took over the entire convention center when it was all about the comics, with cosplay, gaming, and all other pop culture phenomena took a backseat to the printed page and those responsible for them.
Here are a few more thoughts and photos about the glorious day I spent in the LBC.
First, I’d like to give myself a pat on the back for being able to wander around the aisles and NOT dump my wallet’s contents onto each table. It was insanely difficult not emptying my bank account on so many cool things. Thankfully, you didn’t need to be well-funded to enjoy the con. One of my first stops was at the Long Beach Public Library table, where I chatted with one of the representatives about their services. I’m a huge fan of libraries, so I made a mental note to visit the one in Long Beach the next time I’m in town. The young lady working the booth told me about some of the library’s features, then showed me how to make my own button. I chose Darth Vader, of course, so my backpack was bedazzled for the rest of the day.
Free make-your-own button at the Long Beach Public Library table. Kylo Ren would’ve loved my backpack.
It was great seeing the locals representing at the con. In addition to the public library, the Columbia Memorial Space Center had a big presence in the hall. Kids and adults alike were amazed by the science demonstrations, the space suit displays, the build-your-own-rocket table, and more.
Ground Control to Major Tom.
This was something I really appreciated: the amount of families I saw hanging out together. Not everybody was dressed up, but there was definitely a family-friendly vibe all around. I was glad I ran into these light-saber-wielding folk.
The Force runs strong in this family.
This young lady had the best ride of them all.
Perfect ride for an afternoon on Endor.
One thing I’ll always love about these types of conventions: you never know who you’ll run into.
Thanks for the selfie, Artoo!
This was terrific marketing: a $35 box of goodies worth $50. I’m not sure what was inside, but those boxes were definitely an excellent way to sell stuff. I saw a lot of people carrying these things around.
No, you don’t grow after punching one of these.
I love the fact that a KISS tribute band had their own booth. Looking forward to seeing these guys someday.
You wanted cosplay, you got cosplay. The hottest (tribute) band in the land … KISS!
Pew! Pew! Pew!
Ran into a walking carpet and a scoundrel.
Lots of Star Wars cosplayers here.
The 501st Legion FTW.
The Force Awakened.
I swear I’m not just a Star Wars fan. Here are a bunch of photos of various cosplayers. Enjoy!
From beginning to end, I couldn’t be happier with the LBCE. Yes, it was a throwback to my younger SDCC-going days, but it also proved that today’s geekdom is in excellent hands. Kudos to all involved for making the event such a blast. I can’t wait to do it again.
Final note: I couldn’t resist one more Star Wars costume. This hip hop stormtrooper had his boombox blasting hip hop classics and got more than a few people dancing. It was the perfect way to end a day spent geeking out.
Word.