MegaCon returns to Orlando, Florida, this week from February 1st to the 4th, making it the first major convention of the year. Last year we had over 160,000 attendees and the numbers are estimated to only go up from there this year. With celebs like Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen (Obi-Wan and Anakin Skywalker, respectively), as well as a slew of others (including a Princess Bride and Back to the Future reunion!), this is sure to be the year you don’t want to miss.
Where Is MegaCon 2024?
The convention is being held in the West Concourse of the Orange County Convention Center this year which is a change from the past three years. I’m interested to see how the slight change in venue will hold up to the con’s massive attendance. The North and South sides are newer and, in my opinion, feel much larger than the West Concourse. We will see how the change in venue up to the crowds and demand on internet, space, and food.
Quick Convention Tips
A few quick tips to make sure you get the most of your convention weekend:
- Pay for parking before you arrive! The main lots are selling out fast so make sure to grab your spot before they are gone. The website says limited day-of parking will be available, but they won’t be announcing anything until closer to the con.
- Grab your autograph tickets before you hit the convention floor. Buying them online guarantees your spot in the autograph line and some celebs will not allow you in the line at all without an autograph ticket.
- Don’t forget about photo ops. This is another must grab before the convention. If you wait until the day you arrive, you risk losing out to others who are able to get on the con floor and to the photo ops booth before you.
- Download the app and favorite all your panels, signings, and photo op times. The app will alert you before something starts and if something has changed in time, location, or been outright canceled.
- Show up to panels at least 45 minutes early. The paranormal panels and celebrity panels especially will fill up fast. If you can, be at your panel room early or risk not getting in.
- Be aware of special panels. Some celebs, like Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, have pre-paid panel options allowing people to purchase a seat before the con. This means anyone who wants to get in on standby will be last to get in. Tom Hiddleston, Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, the Back to the Future cast, and more are all available to pre-pay for a seat. Check the “Special Experience” page on MegaCon’s website for more information.
MegaCon 2024 Predictions
I’ve been covering MegaCon for at least 10 years and every year it only gets better. The paranormal panels are slated to be the next big thing to hit the convention as well as the growing presence of YouTubers, cosplayers, and internet celebrities. Of the ones in attendance this year, Jen Markham is at the top of my list of must-meet internet celebs along with Dapper Danielle, whom I’ve met at the past two conventions.
I’m also looking forward to the numerous vendors and artists in attendance to see what they bring to the convention floor. In the past, I’ve picked up some pretty cool convention souvenirs including my favorite haul, my leather turtle shell backpack.
Stay tuned for a full convention recap after the con!
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