FREE! | Warrington Market Comic-Con 2017
When we think of the UK 'con circuit', London, Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool are the first cities that come to mind. Each location seems to get bigger and better every year (Funko only this year enjoyed their very first official UK booth in London!). But what about the rest of the UK?
Geek culture shows no sign of slowing down, and as it becomes more mainstream, so to does the acceptance in our day to day life. Ten years ago you'd be lucky to find a con outside of London, but here in 2017, it seems like every big town and city is hosting on their own. With that in mind, we thought we'd venture on over to Warrington to see exactly what they had to offer.
As non-locals, we previously only associated Warrington with rugby and their history of breweries (which I think you'll agree is not exactly the worst combination of exports to claim fame). So to see what their convention offered was a huge (and very pleasant) surprise.
The set up of the con was located in and around the market, with the vast majority run by local tradesmen. From comic book writers, artists, makers of geek chic jewellery and home décor, it really was a pool of local talent from all the surrounding areas - something we feel makes the con stand out from the rest.
It wasn't just merch stalls either. As we ventured around the con (taking approximately two hours in total), we had the opportunity to take photos with (and on) an assortment of comic book and movie-related vehicles, weapons, and props!
We saw a life-size 'Star Wars' speeder bike, a 'Stargate' (which was randomly wonderful), and even a life-sized model of Batman next to his Batsignal!
It wasn't just the professionals out and about, either. Plenty of visitors to the con also took part in the cosplay; it really did make the con feel bigger and more important than just a one-off craft fair.
Photo courtesy of David Morgan, Warrington Guardian.
Given the area and funding, Warrington really did put on one hell of a show.
The event ran from 10:00am – 4:00pm - completely free of charge.
Warrington Market Comic-Con is an event not to be missed for con lovers and pop culture enthusiasts alike.
It only happens once a year, but fear not. The convention will return again in 2018.
