Comic book fans will not be denied.
After going virtual last year over COVID concerns, New York Comic Con is slated to return as an in-person event at the Javits Center this October. The cosplay-filled shindig, Oct. 7 to 10, will go down a month before San Diego Comic-Con International’s “special edition” con, marking SDCC’s first in-person event since summer 2019.
“Right now, we see a path forward for safe, amazing events that are going to look a bit different than usual, so that’s where we’re heading,” said Kristina Rogers, the US comic portfolio director for parent company ReedPop, in a statement to the Wrap.
ReedPop has yet to reveal exactly how this particular cosplaying congregation will function in the time of corona. However, Rogers outlined general safety precautions for their in-person events, which include operating at a “reduced capacity” with limited attendance to “ensure physical distancing.”
Live event attendees and staff alike will also be required to receive a temperature check upon arrival and wear face coverings at all times, per the statement.
To further reduce the potential for coronavirus spread, ReedPop has also adopted a firm “no handshakes, no high-fives, no hugs” policy. Hand sanitizer stations, meanwhile, will be distributed evenly throughout the venues.
“I know there are a lot more questions than what I’ve shared here,” lamented Rogers. “You’re probably wondering what the heck a photo op may look like and how panel seating will work.”
She announced that they’ll be “sharing more information in the months leading up to” the shows and that they’re “committed to being as transparent as possible.”
ReedPop also has three other in-person conventions planned for later this year: Florida Supercon, Sept. 10 to 12 in Miami; Emerald City Comic Con, Dec. 2 to 5 in Seattle; and C2E2, Dec. 10 to 12 in Chicago. Meanwhile, the organization will hold other virtual programs through its Metaverse site, including an event from June 7 to 13.
