LI's Newest Convention, Cradle-Con, Is Set For This Weekend

Later this month, the Cradle of Aviation will be hosting the first-ever Cradle-Con, the newest comic, collectible and pop-culture convention on Long Island.

The Cradle of Aviation created Cradle-Con to address the changing needs and wants of an evolving fandom, making it accessible for all and delivering an intimate, genuine fan experience like no other. In addition, the event is raising funds to support the museum's Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education programs.

"It's an innovative community and family friendly event in response to the fans’ evolving needs and our changing climate," said Seamus Keane, the museum's director of special events. "The guest artists, vendors, and panelists have all been carefully curated to deliver an exceptional fan experience that showcases local talent, recognizes the diversity of a changing fan base, and is all about nostalgia and having fun among a community of clever, creative, and collaborative members. Its built entirely around what the fans want."

The convention features a live podcast with "Rick and Morty" co-creator Dan Harmon; comic artists Billy Tucci (Shi, Heroes for Hire), Mark Russell (Flintstones), Jennifer Hernandez (Sonic the Hedgehog), Somos Arte (Ricanstruction), Rich Drezen (Luckyzilla) and up-and-coming local artists Jay Stuart and Tom Velez; actors Michael Bell (X-Men, GI Joe, Call of Duty, Star Wars), Larry Kenney (Lion-O on the Thundercats.), Michael Copon (Power Rangers, One Tree Hill); Jedi training and visits from 501st Legion Star Wars cosplayers; cosplay costume contests for adults, teens and kids (prizes include Apple MacBook Pro and iPad); a Fortnight gaming event with Microsoft; and the Cradle of Aviation's Retro Arcade Game Lounge.

Cradle-Con is Saturday, June 23 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. -- followed by live podcast with Dan Harmon at 8:30 p.m., which has limited seating -- and Sunday, June 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for kids. Two-day passes are available for $30, but only during advance sale.

For more information on the convention, and to purchase tickets, visit the Cradle-Con website.

Photo courtesy Cradle-Con