Superheroes and villains alike are springing to life in downtown Buffalo. The region’s largest comic book convention is setting up shop this weekend for the third consecutive year at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.
Fans typically converge on Buffalo Comicon dressed to the nines in their favorite cosplay attire. Emil Novak, owner of the Queen City Bookstore, is the event’s founder. He has had a bird’s eye view of the movement from comic books to TV, to the film industry.
“My store has been around almost 50 years now,” said Novak. “And we’ve been a very big component for comics and illustration art, comics and entertainment. With the movies and everything else that’s been going on, and the hobby- it’s a win/win.”
The event features various displays, special guests and panel discussions. Some of the guests include actors John Wesley Shipp and Fred “The Hammer” Williamson.
Fans are invited to try out some of Buffalo’s signature eats, including items created by Just Pizza and Paula’s Donuts. They will also be in the running to receive free merchandise.
“We love to bring a lot of excitement to the city,” said Novak. “The city’s got a lot going on, we went to help contribute to that. It’s a great town and there’s so much color that the Comicon brings. It’s an all-ages event
for kids and adults and everybody.”
The event will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. and on Sunday until 6 p.m. Admission varies, depending on age and whether participants are attending for one day or both days.