Comic book conventions have become increasing popular over the past decade with more and more fans attending multiple events annually. Perhaps the most prolific example of the expanded popularity of these fantasy lover weekends is New York Comic Con which was established in 2006 and grows larger each year. With so many other locations hosting the events it is about time Long Island, NY, a portion of the country with one of the largest populations, taps into the action with a legitimate convention?
Answering the call in 2013, Eternal Con was spawned as a multi-pop culture convention held at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, NY. Receiving a massive turn out of Long Islanders, as well as outsiders from the Tri-state area, the convention was a hit with over 3,000 attendants. Now Eternal Con returned in 2014 for their second annual convention at the same location as the year prior. With more vendors, more special guests, and more special events, 2014’s edition expanded to a two day format which was held on June 14th and 15th. With special movie star guests such as Rebecca Mader (Once Upon A Time series), Ray Park (Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace 1999), Daniel Cudmore (X-men film series), Lee Arenberg (Once Upon A Time series), Mick Foley (former WWE superstar), Steve Cardenas (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers TV series), Catherine Mary Stewart (The Last Starfighter 1984, Tiamak (The Last Dragon 1985), and Zach Galligan (Gremlins 1984); fans lined up early in record numbers to see what Eternal Con II had in store.
Featuring three levels of vendors, exhibits, and art, there was plenty to see and do while browsing the Cradle of Aviation Museum. With plenty of rare vintage toys at over 250 sellers’ booths, the money was flowing as fans got their hands on some nifty collectibles. With so much to see when just walking into the convention, it took most a good hour to just get through the vendor’s area before further exploration. Moving along, there were plenty of aspiring local artists showcasing their work, as well as authors talking to interested passersby about their graphic novels and comic books. With some intriguing and talented individuals on hand, it is further evidence that Long Island does have some talented people which are working to reach a higher level of success with their crafts.
Walking about, it was entertaining to watch many excited attendants in costumes of their favorite characters as they walked around in their travels to one of the more exciting spots at Eternal Con II, the media guest area. With some interesting and exciting actors and actresses on hand, many fans patiently waited their turn to tell each of the stars how much they love their work and take a photo with them as a nice memory. All in good spirits and gracious of the fan fare, each guest appeared happy to be at Eternal Con which always makes for a much more pleasant fan experience. As one wandered the floor some more, around the corner of the guest area was one of the most exciting exhibits of original costumes and props from sci-fiction and horror films on display. With original props from Planet of The Apes series, Evil Dead (1981), Day of The Dead (1985) and more; this collection was large and impressive for many film enthusiast to feast their eyes on.
With plenty of contests, The Macabre Faire Film Festival, game tournaments, and other sights to see, Eternal Con II was a fun weekend for fans of all ages. With this being only the convention’s second year, the possibilities are endless for growth and expansion for next year and beyond.
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