Organizers of the annual Sarnia Pop Culture Show are hoping to see several attendees at this year's convention after last year's record turnout.
Co-organizer Trent Rogers described the multi-genre, all-ages event as being a celebration of the "fun and fantastic", featuring toys, comics, games, and cosplay.
"Cosplay is such an important aspect of the show. It drives a lot of excitement," he said. "You should see the looks on the faces of the kids when they see people all dressed up, and the kids like to take part in that as well. Sometimes they just wear their Halloween costumes and just have fun."
Rogers said technically, the show has been running for 12 years but due to pandemic restrictions, this weekend will mark their ninth event.
"We did one last year and it was our best one yet. We had a record attendance of over 1,000 people and I think a lot of it was due to the fact that people were excited to get out and celebrate again with us," Rogers said.
The fun is set for Sunday, April 14 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at the Point Edward Arena on Monk Street.
Tickets are $10 and available at the door, or in advance through the event's website or at Future Pastimes, in downtown Sarnia on Front Street North. Kids 11 and under get in free.
A portion of the ticket sales will go to St. Clair Child and Youth Services. Last year, Rogers said $5,000 was donated to the organization.
"We just think that they are doing such important work in the community," he said. "Being a family-friendly show, we want to support this organization because of the important work they do for children and families."
Nearly 60 vendors have signed up but there will be over 100 vendor tables set up at the arena.