7 Geek Conventions to Attend If You’ve Already Been to Comic-Con

Going to Comic-Con International in San Diego is the ultimate badge of honor for geeks. But it can take a hero’s journey to get tickets, primarily because the event has grown beyond comics to encompass all things pop culture. If you’ve already been there and done that—or just can’t make it this time around—we’ve rounded up some of the quirkiest geek conventions and festivals around the country for fans of mermaids, horror films and, yes, comics.

Disney till you drop at D23 Expo (Anaheim, California)

If you’re really into Disney, then it’s definitely worth joining their official D23 fan club. D23’s yearly summer expo brings together fans of all ages, and it’s also where you’ll hear the hottest Mouse House news before everyone else. The biggest draw, however, just might be the shopping: The expo is flush with limited-edition collectibles, some of which will only be available at the event.

Embrace the East at Otakon (Washington, D.C.)

This annual summer celebration of Asian pop culture covers anime, video games, music and movies, and boasts panels and celebrity guests galore. It’s a big event, so there will always be something happening that caters to your particular passion. You can socialize (and compare outfits) in the Lolita Garden (named after Japan’s popular Lolita fashion subculture), discover new talent at the Artist Alley, unwind in the Manga Library or strike a pose—preferably in costume—in the Photo Suite.

Celebrate indie comics at Small Press Expo (Bethesda, Maryland)

What’s great about this two-day event, which runs Sept. 16–17, is that the panels often explore ideas in greater depth than they would be at super-huge conventions. Past discussions have delved into evoking laughter in comics and the art of printing comics. The three-day Baltimore Comic-Con is the following weekend and though it has grown in popularity it still offers plenty of deals on comics and opportunities to get to know creators.

Enter the Horror Realm (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

Pittsburgh becomes the Zombie Capital of the World during this fan-oriented March event, which celebrates all things horror. Here, you can learn about self-publishing your own horror stories, compete in horror-themed tattoo and costume contests, and enjoy a festival of short horror films.

Dive into NC Mermania (Greensboro, North Carolina)

Be part of their world at NC Mermania, an aquatic convention celebrating folklore’s favorite finned creature. Credit: Sheli Craig

Did you worship a certain scarlet-haired mermaid named Ariel when you were growing up? Then mark your calendar for January for one of the biggest mermaid (and merman!) conventions in the world. This event allows you to swim with your fellow merfolk while decked out in your most glamorous fin. If you happen to have your own little mermaid, she’ll be delighted by the con’s just-for-kids swim.

Go gaming at RetroWorldExpo (Hartford, Connecticut)

Retro and modern video game enthusiasts and tabletop gamers gather Oct. 14–15 at this New England convention. RetroWorldExpo boasts 100,000 square-feet dedicated to gaming, vendors, exhibitors and cosplay. The extra space means plenty of opportunities to play against fellow gamers—and to buy the games you loved from your childhood. Who needs a reissued Super NES when you can get the genuine article?

Live long and prosper at Star Trek: The Continuing Voyage (Parsippany, New Jersey)

This year’s Star Trek: The Continuing Voyage conference celebrates the 30th anniversary of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Can’t make it to the big Star Trek convention in Las Vegas this year? Head to this Sept. 29–Oct. 1 con, which includes a salute to Trekkies, Trekkers and fans of all shapes, sizes and nicknames! A general admission ticket will get you into most of the events and the extensive vendors’ room. Do note: photo ops, autographs and admission to special on-stage reunion shows, which feature series stars, will cost extra.

Plan your trip to a convention in Anaheim, D.C., Bethesda, Pittsburgh, Greensboro, Hartford, Parsippany.