The first sign that the experience was going to be very different was when the line came into view.  Thousands of people wrapping around the Convention Center, many in full costume.  Despite the high temperature and lack of shade, nobody seemed to be in a bad mood or struggling with frustration.  If anything, the exact opposite.   Laughing, long conversations, costume comparison and a general sense of fun and comradery were the norm.  This did not change even over a three hour waiting period. 

Once inside the building, the acquisition of the long anticipated weekend pass is no less a reason to celebrate.  After long hours waiting in the same line, people are handed their passes and then they erupt in cheers, clapping, and laughter.  The wait has clearly been worth it as you now have the means to access the main exhibit hall.

Overwhelming.  This is the only word to describe the first sight of the main exhibit hall.  Booths and displays as far as the eye can see.  A visual cornucopia of all things geeky and nerdy.  The t-shirt display alone is enough to make you stop, pause, and catch your breath.  The only thing to do is to dive in and start the exploration.  Books, magazines, comics, miniature figines, bags of dice, panel discussions with sci-fi/fantasy celebrities.  Makers of “geek chic” handmade furniture.  Beauty and craftsmanship at an amazing level.  Illustrators, writers, costume designers, movie makers and bloggers all coming together in the same place to discuss the things they love and the things that are of interest.  Disneyland for geeks.  If you have never had the choice to got to Comic Con, Fantasy Con, or Dragon Con, I highly recommend the experience.  You will not ever be disappointed.