Wizard World Is Coming to Madison!

The pop culture extravaganza known as Wizard World is coming to Madison, WI from September 22-24. Despite Wizard World Chicago taking place less than a month ago, many Illinoisans will cross the border and join our Wisconsin friends for three days of comic con fun!

Wizard World's roots date back to 1991, when it published Wizard, a monthly magazine. By 2011, their successful conventions caused them to discontinue their printing division to focus on the comic cons. They now have over 20 great events across the country throughout the year. I have attended Chicago's event for many years and have also traveled to Columbus, New York and St. Louis for more Wizard World fun.

You can read about my Chicago experience on my local Patch at On the Beat at Wizard World Chicago 2017. Suffice it to state that I had a blast and I am certain a great time will be had in Madison.

Chicago's "cCelebrity Host" was Kato Kaelin and he was one of the real highlights. The man worked it from start to finish. He was engaging and entertaining. Attendees (and probably Wizard World management, too) got a lot more than expected. Kato was not some figurehead celebrity host. I am hoping this become a regular gig for him.

Headlining the celebrity guest list is Stan Lee, the legend from Marvel Comics. It doesn't get much bigger than that. I have seen him at previous events and he is always one of the most popular guests.

Also scheduled to appear are Michael Cudlitz, Sean Maher, Ray Park, Lennie James, Juliet Landau, Emma Caulfield, Lou Ferrigno and many more. As usual, there will also be a lot of talented folks in the Artit Area. My friends author Genese Davis and artist Victor Dandridge are just a couple of my favorites among the many creators. There will also be panels, Q&A's, vendors and more.

As always, one of the things I enjoy the most is checking out the cosplayers (or simply people dressed ias their favorite character). You will see a lot of people dressed as Harley Quinn, The Joker, Wonder Woman and other popular characters. Every so often, you will see a "Progressive Flo" or a "Macho Man Randy Savage" from some fan. I am always on the lookout for Aquaman, although if I see one per con, I am lucky and happy.

Wizard World is really a place to immerse yourself in pop culture fun. For many it is a chance to hang out with seldom-seen friends (con friends). For others, it is a chance to buy some artwork, novelties or other goodies. Others go for celebrities. Whatever your goal or pop culture interest, Wizard World is the place to be. Friday, September 22-24, Wizard World Madison is the place to be!