New York Comic-Con: The Lasting Experience

By: Jared Perez

A few years ago, when I was still in high school a friend of mine applied to be a panelist at the New York City Comic-Con in the Javits Center. I was slightly confused at the time because I was not sure what we would be doing. 

I wasn’t even a legal adult yet, but I agreed to go anyway. That would be one of the best decisions I made in my life. If you were to ask anyone what it was like going to their first Comic-Con, they would give you a face of reminiscence. 

My first time going to the convention was in the fall of 2017. It was an interesting time, I had pink dyed hair and a pandemic had not hit the world yet, so it was okay for the convention center to be packed with nothing but cosplayers, geeks, and nerds wanting to share their enthusiasm for the fandoms they love. 

One of my most memorable moments was an after-hours panel regarding the 9th season of The Walking Dead. I remember arriving at the packed Madison Square Garden venue as everyone scanned in their badges filled with the anticipation of getting to see the cast. There had been rumors of the lead character Rick Grimes, played by actor Andrew Lincoln, possibly leaving the show. 

At the beginning of the panel, they had confirmed his time on the show was ending. When the night ended, I remember being mesmerized by how much fun I had. I was always terrified to show off my nerdy side but for that one weekend, I was able to embrace the same wonders and joy that certain projects give me. 

I wouldn’t return to the convention until 2021 but this time I had adult money to spend. It felt almost like the first time. There were still long lines and people cosplaying, but the only downside was the COVID restrictions. The only real issue was keeping the mask up since at times all the walking can get exhausting. 

Although there may have been some new rules in place the experience was still the same. I will always enjoy getting to see so many people wearing costumes of their favorite characters and never being afraid to show who they are. 

This is a safe place that I hope many get to experience, at least once in their lifetime.