Gird Thy Loins: New York Comic Con Kicks Off This Weekend

Brace yourselves Manhattan, because this week New York Comic Con 2015 kicks off. October 8-11, The Javits Center turns into the pop culture capital of the city as comics, movies, gaming and television stars converge to delight fans and showcase what's next in entertainment.

NYCC is the largest comics show on the East Coast, with last year's attendance tallying in at over 151,000 people. Judging by this year's all-star line up, it might even be bigger. The guest list features nerd royalty such as Felicia Day, Bruce Campbell, Bryan Cranston, Billie Piper, Danny Glover, Jack Black, Elijah Wood, Natalie Dormer and Nathan Fillion. But it's not just Hollywood that flocks to the event, but comics legends as well such as Scott Snyder, Amy Chu, Babs Tarr, Marjorie Liu, Alex de Campi, Greg Rucka and Kieron Gillen. Basically, it's all of the coolest people all in one place.

But cons can be overwhelming, and especially as one as large as NYCC, so let's talk about some survival tips to get you through the weekend unscathed.

1. Plan your time
NYCC's website is wonderfully comprehensive, so take an hour or two to make an agenda for each day. Figure out which panels, signings, and showings are on your must-see list and where they're at. Give yourself enough time to dash across Javits, keeping in mind that some of the lines (especially for the larger events) may be pretty long. By coming up with a game plan, you'll save yourself time and stress of figuring out where to head next.

2. Pack some snacks
Convention food is expensive, lines are crazy--why bother with it? Grab some high protein munchies like nuts, trail mix, beef or vegetarian jerky, peanut butter crackers, and granola bars to keep yourself energized while you're digging through back issues. Plan to meet up with friends after the show closes for dinner or drinks!

3. Be a good member of the community
NYCC has a comprehensive anti-harassment policy, and they take it very seriously. This is a place to have fun, make new friends, and geek out--it's not a place where you need to feel uncomfortable, or make other people feel uncomfortable. According to their policy, "If a person engages in harassing behavior, New York Comic Con (NYCC) Staff will take prompt action in any form they deem appropriate, including expulsion from NYCC with no refund. Our policy applies to EVERYONE at the convention. Exhibitors, Fans (Attendees), Speakers, Guests, Professionals, Press, Staff, Volunteers, and Security are all subject to our anti-harassment policy and will be held to the same standards and disciplinary action."

If you are harassed, or see someone harassing others, report it to security immediately.

4 Check out Artist's Alley
Even if you aren't a comics fan, spend some time in Artist's Alley to see what you've been missing. The comics industry is filled with massively talented people, and they attend conventions to sell their art, books, and merch--so show them some support.

5. Stay safe!
NYCC makes sure to cater to guests with all levels of mobility. They offer medical badges for guests that require special assistance, interpreters for the hearing impaired, and all varities of support for attendees--including quiet rooms for those that need a break. If you have any concerns, speak to one of the helpful staff members. They want everyone to have a great time.

So what are your tips for having a great time at NYCC? And what are you most looking forward to?