How I did it: Dragon*Con is honestly the most fun anyone with any sort of geeky tendencies can have.

There is something for everyone! They have panels in Space & Science, Comics, Animation,Movies, Television, British Media, Games, Costuming, Star Trek, Star Wars, Robotics, Filmmaking, Gothic Culture, Anime, Youth Literature, Science Fiction, Pern, etc.

There are always interesting guests too, many of them famous. And the parties and events are so much fun! Many people the first year spend most of their time flitting from panel to panel, but learn to slow down and do more people-watching the next year. Most everyone there is super helpful and nice, so I always make a friend or two each year.

Lessons & tips: The earlier you buy your membership the cheaper it will be. Also if you purchase 10 or more at a time you also get a discount.

Stay in a con hotel if possible. I can't think of much worse than navigating downtown Atlanta at night while tired, in costume, or after having some drinks.

Bring a camera! You will want to show everyone all the awesome costumes and people you saw.

Hydrate! And don't forget to eat or sleep. The con suite has free snacks and drinks if you need a break.

Use the program guide to plan out your "can't miss" panels and events for the weekend. Highlight them so you don't forget.

Cell phone reception is abysmal in the lower levels of the hotels, just be aware.

Be respectful of the other con-goers. This includes maintaining personal hygiene, not touching anyone or taking their picture without their permission, or making rude comments. Your parents should have taught you better.

Dragon*Con is a great place to meet new and interesting people and learn about new hobbies. Go hang out in the Gaming rooms and ask someone to teach you a new game. Compliment someone's costume you like. Be friendly, and talk to the people you're standing in line with... you never know what you may have in common :)

Go see the big events like the Masquerade and Parade at least once in person. After that, you can just watch the live feeds on Dragon*Con TV on the hotel TVs.

Don't go overboard in the dealer's room. Make a budget for the weekend and stick to it. Do you really need another figurine or poster? I only buy one souvenir and one new game each year.

Resources: http://www.dragoncon.org

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Aug 18, 01:58PM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer