Indulge your pop-culture fads, inner geek or just get inspired for Halloween this weekend, writes Shawn Conner.
1. The original Hulk
Whatever your pop culture obsession — anime, horror, My Little Pony — the annual Fan Expo Vancouver is a chance to indulge. Featured guests this year include the original Hellboy (Ron Perlman), the original Hulk (former weightlifter Lou Ferrigno) and the original Buffy (Kristy Swanson).
2. Bob McLeod
Fan Expos (other host cities include Toronto, Regina and Edmonton) have their origins in science fiction and comic book conventions. Fan Expo Vancouver stays true to these roots by hosting an Artist’s Alley featuring a number of comics creators, including locals like Ian Boothby and Pia Guerra and out-of-towners such as longtime Marvel Comics artist Bob McLeod and Seattle cartoonist Peter Bagge.
3. Evilyn13
Need an idea for a Halloween costume? You won’t do better than Fan Expo Vancouver. Not only do amateurs get in on the action with homemade outfits (which they can show off at themed events such as Star Trek, Marvel and Sailor Moon cosplay meetups) but pro cosplayers also roam the halls. Among them: Vancouver model Evilyn13, who has been known to dress as Ant Man’s partner The Wasp, fishnet-clad magician Zatanna, and the clown princess of crime, Harley Quinn.
4. Speed dating
Your toy-collecting hobby might not earn you many swipes on Tinder, but at Fan Expo, you at least have a shot at meeting the Mighty Morphin Power Ranger of your dreams.
5. Swag
If you have any money left after the autographs, photo ops and exhibitors’ tables, visit the official Fan Expo Vancouver store for exclusive merchandise like comic books, T-shirts, and toys.