The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo, better known as Calgary Expo, returns this weekend to Stampede Park with a star-studded lineup of geek heroes and nerdy events.
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“Calgary is absolutely a geeky city,” said Emily Expo, Hostess for Calgary Expo. “Just because someone has to wear a suit or uniform to work doesn’t mean that they aren’t excited about unleashing their inner Whovian. We all have our own unique interests, and this event is a great place to explore them and maybe even discover new ones simultaneously.”
Image: Calgary Expo
The 2016 Calgary Expo features guests like William Shatner (Star Trek), Stan Lee (Marvel Comics), Adrianne Palicki (Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) and more. An after show party hosted by Joey Fatone of N’Sync with performances by Rock Sugar and Kirby Krackle is planned for Friday, April 29 at Cowboys. There will also be celebrations marking the 50th Anniversary of Star Trek, the 75th Anniversary of Archie Comics and more fandoms.
“The Parade of Wonders is another highlight, and it has grown immensely yet again,” said Expo. “It is produced by Downtown Calgary, and I suspect we’ll see a lot of fantastic cosplays all weekend. We also have some great LAN tournaments set up courtesy of Lanified, and the Artists Alley (my favorite area) is always great to see.”
Image: Calgary Expo
The Calgary Expo began in 2005, and has grown from 3000 attendees in the first year to 102,000 attendees in 2015. The reason for the success is that the convention is welcoming to all audiences.
“Our event is a family event and open to anyone who is interested in coming,” said Expo. “There’s no one at the door checking your ‘nerd credentials’. If you’re interested in art, this is for you. If you’re interested in film or television, this event is for you. If you’re interested in books, comics, toys, music, or costuming, this event is for you. Or maybe you’re just looking for something different to do and you have no idea what our event is like, this event is for you too.”
Image: Calgary Expo
The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo 2016
When: April 28 to May 1
Where: Stampede Park (BMO Center, 20 Roundup Way SE)
Admission: $5 to $325; passes available here
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