Awesome Con
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From April 5-6, DC’s Convention Center turns into a massive celebration of geek culture.
There will be no shortage of celebrity talent at Awesome Con this April, including Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, Ming-Na Wen and The Lord of the Rings actors Orlando Bloom, Liv Tyler, John Rhys-Davies and Sean Astin. Astin will also be a part of a 40th anniversary celebration of The Goonies with co-stars Kerri Green, Martha Plimpton, Robert Davi, Joe Pantoliano and Corey Feldman. Feldman is pulling double-duty as well, joining the cast of 1990’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a 35th anniversary celebration. Rounding out the guest list are cast members from Hunter x Hunter, Firefly, Blue’s Clues and many more.
As always, Awesome Con's littlest fans have a lot to look forward to. Awesome Con Jr.! features drawing and crafting workshops throughout the weekend from published children’s book writers, including The Wild Robot author Peter Brown. The always-bustling Movement Zone hosts a plethora of mega-fun, interactive entertainment, including a special Kids Q&A with the hosts of Blue’s Clues (Josh Dela Cruz, Donovan “Joe” Patton and Steve Burns).
Lovers of literature and comic books can greet and get books signed by bestselling authors like Casey McQuiston, Timothy Zahn, Peter Brown, Seanan McGuire, R.R. Virdi, John Scalzi and more. Lit lovers can get their books signed for free with any purchase from the Awesome Con Bookstore and experience an entire programming track of fascinating panels about books, authors, and the art of writing.
Pride Alley celebrates queer artists and fans, with the celebration soaring to another level thanks to the 50th anniversary of Pride and WorldPride coming to Washington, DC from May 17 to June 8. Expect a range of programming including inspiring panels, hilarious chats and a drag half-time show during the Cosplay Competition. Plus, Awesome Con has added exclusive pride-themed merch with proceeds set to benefit the Capital Pride Alliance.
Awesome Con
Pinpalooza returns for the mightiest of collectors with pirate-themed Awesome Bot pins. Grab the starter pack at the Awesome Con Merch Store and snag the Merch pin when you spend over $100. You can also trade with a Staff member for the Staff exclusive to collect all five. New to Awesome Con this year is a Ribbon Rally. Attendees can grab official ribbons at locations around the con to stick on your badge. Fans are also encouraged to create and bring your own ribbons to dole out to fellow con-goers (visit the event website for tips).
