Comic conventions are back in full swing. Most convention goers haven’t attended a convention since 2019. That feels like ages ago for the vast majority of us, since there was a lack of social gatherings in 2020. This does mark the perfect opportunity to talk about something that was important two years ago, and is perhaps even more important now…  

Let’s talk about Comic-Con etiquette. 

If you’ve never been to a Comic-Con, or you just need to brush up on your etiquette, there are a few very important things to consider before jumping back in to the fray.  

Rule Number One: Patience, Patience, and Patience 

This is the most important rule of attending a Comic-Con. These events are typically very large and fans are chomping at the bit to get back to them after a long time away. Please be patient with the long lines and be considerate of those around you. This has always been a point of contention at cons and expos, even before last year, but it is doubly true now. 

Please show respect for those around you. 

Bigger crowds mean less personal space for everyone. Don’t just be patient, be respectful! It’s understandable that you may be excited to get to your favorite vendor or get an autograph from your favorite artist or celebrity, but please recognize that everyone else is there for a similar reason. Be kind to your peers. 

This respect extends further than just to your fellow convention goers. It also extends to the cosplayers, artists, celebrities, and anyone else working to make the event more memorable. Photographs are fine, but please ask first. It’s the polite thing to do. Most cosplayers will likely say yes anyway. It is also important that when you do take or pose for pictures you are respectful of the traffic around you. Don’t block the middle of the aisle for everyone else. 

When meeting your favorite artist or celebrity, please be respectful of the rules they have set. Don’t take unauthorized photos, and please don’t hold up the line for an unnecessary length of time to tell your life story. Remember that there are people who have been waiting in line just as patiently as you, and that the celebrities themselves often spend hours doing meet and greets. 

Lastly, have a good time. 

If you are patient and respectful of those around you, there’s only one thing left to do, which is to have fun! Remember that you’re all there for that very reason. Take the time to strike up a conversation with those around you. Maybe you can help them find something they’re looking for, or maybe they can help you. Either way, enjoy yourself!