Comic Book Convention Brings Superheroes and Super Fans

April 23, 2013

Comic book conventions, which originally showcased comic books, cartoons, science fiction and related popular arts, have grown into pop culture events in major U.S. cities. Recently one such convention was held in Washington and drew thousands of visitors. Some comic fans take the fun seriously.

Acting like superheroes or super-villains, or just showing off, comic fans dressed up as their favorite characters are having a good time at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

Some enjoy the fantasy of the comic convention.

Edward Nigma says he and his wife came from "Gotham City," the fictional home of Batman.

Many take the fun seriously. It took more than four months for Dale Harvey to build this costume of a video game character.

"I get enjoyment out of creating it, building it with my friends, just having a good time seeing people’s reaction to it," said Harvey. "The most awesome thing for me is watching kids, young and old, have a good time seeing a character come to life."

The event also offers an opportunity to make new friends.

Organizers say the "Awesome Con DC" event drew more than 5,000 visitors for two days. Ben Penrod is the event coordinator.

"These types of conventions are huge right now," said Penrod. "They have them in every city. This is only a fraction of the size of San Diego every year, or even the one in Baltimore."