London is a city famed for its broad range of cultural attractions. From film premieres, contemporary art to theatre and live music performances, the city is one of the top spots in Europe to enjoy arts and culture. This is no surprise, London has always been top of the list of filming locations, creative minds and creative businesses, all brimming with ideas and showcasing them to the world through the internet, literature and television. Whatever aspect of pop culture you’re interested in, London can offer you an outlet and for your passions.
One of the most unique cultural experiences one can enjoy whilst on a London weekend break is the MCM Comic Con experience. As with many of the comic conventions in the UK, guests get the opportunity to enjoy a range of pop culture attractions from a broad variety of mediums. That’s not all, the special guests, talks and merchandise stalls scattered across these events provide fans with enough excitement for days on end. These events are often paired with talks and tasters from film, game and storytellers on their latest projects and instalments.
There are a variety of attributes which make the MCM Comic Con stand out, and we’ve compiled everything you need to know about this exciting event. Get your tickets soon though, the event takes place on the 25th to 27th of October, a perfect palate cleanser for Haloween!
What is MCM Comic Con?
MCM Comic Con is London’s broadest Comic Convention. Whilst many others focus specifically on particular subcultures and mediums, MCM Comic Con embraces film, comics, games, manga and many other elements that feed into pop culture. With a full weekend of special guests and interactive events, guests at Comic-Con never leave disappointed.
What makes it stand out?
As a broad convention, the COmic Con utilises aspects of pop culture both behind and in front of the screen. With famous props, character costumes and actors all attending the convention, you can also talk to the creators of your favourite shows and comics. With never before seen releases, limited-edition merchandise and workshops, the MCM Convention stands out as the crown jewel of London comic events.
Where is MCM Comic Con?
The MCM Comic Con is held in the ExCeL Centre in Victoria Docks. This huge conference centre is easily reachable from the Barbican Hotels London due to its proximity to the Dockland Light Railway. This East London tramline is one of the fastest and offers amazing views over the River Thames and East London area during your journey.
What can I expect?
There are many events taking place over the three-day convention. Whether you’re visiting the London City Suites Islington for a day or for a month, there is enough fun every day at the MCM Comic Con to satiate a year’s worth of pop culture needs. With a different line up each day, here are just a few of the attractions you can expect when visiting MCM.
Panel discussions
This year, you can expect to find a broad variety of panel discussions, screenings and question and answer sessions from the main stage of the MCM convention. With its amazing guests, this stage will cover everything from superhero movies to indie games, ensuring that you’re in the know about the next big thing.
Tattoos
With the in-convention tattoo parlour, you can choose from a broad range of designs and LucasFilm endorsed tattoos. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new design to try or you have one ready to go, the professional artists at MCM Convention will give you the most unique keepsake there is.
Workshops
From comic book writing to game design, the Comic-Con workshops are some of the most unique out there. With hands-on and accessible workshops, you’ll be able to learn more about your favourite creatives and their processes. Make sure to book your place in advance, these workshops fill up quickly!
The Treehouse
The Treehouse is designed for youngsters to enjoy games and fun from all their favourite superheroes. With kids under 10 going free to Comic-Con with an adult ticket, the Treehouse caters to the younger guests who want to play, get their faces painted and enjoy the best games out there.
Side Quest video game area
The Side Quest area of MCM Comic Con is an interactive space for video game lovers, to test new games and play their favourites. With mini-tournaments and all the best next-gen and retro consoles, the Side Quest gaming area is a haven for gamers everywhere.
Pop Asia
Pop Asia explores the wide world of Asian culture. With Japanese and Korean food, as well as video games, cosplay and performances, this is the best way to enjoy manga and science fiction from the other side of the globe and introduce your friends and family to a whole new universe.
Cosplay central
With the CosPlay masquerade, European Championship Finals and WCS & CCCC Qualifiers taking place over the weekend, this is the place to be if you enjoy dressing up as your favourite characters. Note that the restrictions on cosplay weapons mean that you can’t bring sharp or blunt props, or working projectile weapons are restricted, but that just gives you even more ways to get creative!
Photos with special guests
With many special guests expected to attend the event, it’s a no brainer that photo shoots with your favourite actors and characters will be taking place across the weekend. From Power Rangers to Star Wars, this year will see the likes of Simon Pegg and the child cast of It: Chapter 2 take the stage for photo and autograph opportunities.
Authors Corner
Get a sneak-peek into the creative process behind your favourite comic books. With signings, talks and questions and answer sessions, this is the best place in London to meet novelists, publishers and bloggers from all across the world. Whether it’s fantasy fiction or comic books you’re interested in, these amazing guests will be there to sign your merchandise and give you an in-depth look into the worlds they’ve created.
