Ready to try a comic con and wondering what to expect at WasabiCon right here in Jacksonville, FL? Here’s a quick overview, from someone who’s been going to this convention since it started in 2012! I originally wrote this post in 2019 but have updated it with the most recent info.
WasabiCon is now the longest running pop culture convention in Jacksonville, FL. It’s grown from a two-day event at a hotel, to a currently 3-day event held at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center in downtown Jax. It’s usually held mid-October.
The name may lead you to believe it’s all about anime, but it covers all the fandoms, and you’ll find a little bit of everything related to geek/nerd pop culture represented through cosplayers, special guests, panels and vendors.
Check out their website at: WasabiCon.com
The WasabiCon Experience
Every convention is different, but there are always similar elements. I learned early on that you can’t attend DragonCon and then expect the same experience at MegaCon. Conventions all have their own personalities and aspects that will appeal to some and not to others.
This guide covers what to expect at WasabiCon, but every con changes as it grows. Always keep an open mind when attending conventions for the first time.
By the way, I also wrote a children’s book about attending comic cons so kids know what to expect too!
What to Expect to See at WasabiCon
Regular People and Families
Wasabi is a family-friendly comic con and welcomes all ages, though the crowd does skew toward the younger anime set. In recent years they’ve been adding more “adult” options like drink specials at the bar and evening burlesque shows.
You’ll see plenty of families, groups of teens and a wide variety of ages overall. And there are a lot of people in costumes, but there are also a lot that are just in regular clothes. Either way is ok!
Famous People
Like most conventions WasabiCon has a mix of movie and TV stars, but voice actors are the big stars of this convention – actors who voice characters in popular anime.
You can check their guest pages for what guests will be there, and usually find their prices for autographs and photos.
Cosplayers
You’ll see people of all ages in cosplay! These are the people dressed in costumes representing all different fandoms and pop culture.
WasabiCon Costume Contest
There is always a costume contest, but the categories and format change a little every year. Wasabi doesn’t usually offer a big cash prize, so don’t go into this one expecting to win big bucks. It’s usually free tickets and prizes like Funko Pops and stickers.
This makes it a great starter contest if you are looking to enter something just for fun or entering for the first time. There is always a good turnout for the contest so make sure you find the sign-up table and get registered ahead of time. Sometimes there will also be pre-judging.
Vendor Room
The vendor room at WasabiCon has a little of everything – t-shirts, Japanese candy, Funko Pops, comics, DVDs, jewelry, unique accessories, collector’s items, etc. There’s something different every year.
One year one of the vendors was STL Ocarina, and I got one of their ocarinas to go with my Legend of Zelda Link cosplay.
Artist Alley
Artist Alley is where you can find artists and creators of original content from original artwork and prints to handcrafted goods. You can even commission some artists to make something unique just for you.
Panels and Workshops
This is where you can learn something new, watch a movie or show, chat about your favorite things, gather with like-minded friends, or listen to guests speak about whatever their specialty might be.
Check the schedule to find times and descriptions and try to attend at least one to see what it’s all about. I went to conventions for several years before I ever attended one panel! I had no idea they existed because there is so much stuff to do and see.
Gaming
WasabiCon usually has both video and tabletop gaming areas, so you can indulge in a little old school Dungeons and Dragons or play the latest video games with friends.
Food and Drink
Now that WasabiCon is held at the convention center, you have the option of eating at the cafe there, or several food trucks parked outside.
They also have little drink stands around the convention where you can get a drink or adult beverage.
WasabiCon Events & Shows
The events change every year but usually they have the Idol Showcase, Maid Cafe, a performance by Noise Complaint and a rave. Check the website for the most recent event updates and to see what they have this year.
A Fun Family Convention
I hope this post clears up a little bit of what to expect at WasabiCon, or any comic con type convention. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments!
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Categories: Conventions
Omg!!! The Ocarina!!! I own the exact same one, one of the first songs I learned was Saria’s song (waaaay better than Zelda’s lullaby.)
That’s awesome you can play it! I have only mastered Hot Cross Buns so far lol
We did that song in elementary school (with recorders) so I refused to do it! Sometimes you can find complex songs watered down for beginners. The going is slow, but once you get it down you’ve mastered a LOT of skills! …and it’s fun to impress people.