Mesa County Comic-Con Goes ‘Virtual’ for 2020

September and October 2020 bring weeks of celebration of all things fandom with the Mesa County Libraries Comic-Con. Get ready for cosplay, art shows, anime watch parties, and more, all in a "virtual" setting.

Mesa County Public Libraries shared a statement via their official webpage:

We at Mesa County Libraries are extremely disappointed that we won’t be able to hold MCL Comic-Con in person this year, but the health and safety of our community is our highest priority. Instead, we will be presenting some of the most popular elements of Comic-Con virtually this year.

The MCPL adds, "...we’re still dedicated to supporting local artists, authors, vendors, and fans. We’re also presenting several virtual activities this fall that will feature local talent and bring our community of fans together."

While I have very little experience with comic-cons, it seems most feature cosplay as a major component of their events. For 2020, you'll need to fire up your camera. You're instructed to capture images of your creative talents in these categories:

• Kids Cosplay Contest (Ages 11 and under)
• Teen Cosplay Contest (Ages 12-18)
• Adult Cosplay Contest (Ages 19 and up)
• Group Cosplay Contest (All-ages groups of 2-10 cosplayers with the same theme or fandom)

How many different categories can you compete in? According to the webpage, cosplayers can compete in only one competition. Cosplay submissions begin Saturday, September 5, 2020, and will close at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 26.

What are the requirements to compete in the cosplay contest?

• Must be Mesa County Libraries card holders
• Must complete the online registration form
• Agree to the photo release form
• Submit 1 to 3 photos in different poses of themselves in costume
• Provide a brief description of their costume
• Provide name and fandom of their character

How do we go about seeing the cosplayers? According to the MCPL webpage, the virtual Cosplay Contest will be offered via Facebook and YouTube on October 10. Prizes for each category will be awarded during the week of October 10. Prizes include Downtown Grand Junction gift cards, Top Five Comics and official MCL Comic Con Merchandise.

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What if you wish to participate in the Expo Hall? This service is available to those wishing to exhibit products and/or services relating to comic books, comic art, pop culture, anime, science fiction, books, fantasy, graphic novels, and movies. Keep in mind this is a family event, so no adult matter will be allowed. To be a part of the Expo Hall, you'll need to complete an application by September 1, 2020. There is no charge to participate.

I'm not really one for comics or fantasy, but this virtual event looks fascinating. I did stop by the Comic-Con at the Grand Junction Convention Center a couple of years ago. It was fun. With this virtual event, participation is drawn out over a long period of time. Please check out the virtual Expo Hall and support the local collectors and merchants. While you're at it, keep an eye on the cosplay contest.