Sunday, May 3, 2015

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim - A First-Timer's Experience


A First-Timer's Experience
Star Wars Celebration VII Anaheim
April 16-19, 2015

May 3, 2015
by Jade Kim

Wow, where do I even begin? Star Wars Celebration 7 was literally one of the most amazing weekends of my life. I go to about 6 comic and sci-fi conventions a year, so it’s safe to say that I have quite a bit of experience in this type of fandom. C7 was different however. I don’t know if it was the Star Wars emphasis, the anticipation of Episode VII coming out this year, or simply the fact that my entire cosplay family was in attendance with me, but Celebration was definitely much more than just another convention. Whether it was staring in awe (and fear) at the life-sized Roxy statue, mingling in the Mos Eisley Cantina, or excitedly watching the new trailer for The Force Awakens, every aspect of the C7 went above beyond my expectations.

The sheer number of people of all ages, races, and backgrounds from all over the world gathered under one cause, their undying, passionate love for Star Wars, was enough to bring tears to one’s eyes (as it did...for me at least). It truly reminded me of how amazing the entire Star Wars universe is. It’s hard to find something that unites so many people from so many walks of life. I left C7 with aching feet, a warm heart, and enough memories to fill a Death Star. I’ve never pictured myself travelling out of country for a convention, but for the sake of the next Star Wars Celebration in London, I may have to make an exception.



May 3, 2015
by Miranda Turner

This was my first year attending Star Wars celebration, and I must say I was pretty impressed. Not only was the line to get the badge short but it also gone rather quickly. The weapons check was nice and easy, and no hassle was given. As a cosplayer who usually has many weapons, I value this. Upon entering the show floor for the first time, I must say I was slightly overwhelmed. As a seasoned con attender this was one of the largest than I've ever been to. I was amazed that there was so much Star Wars product that it could fill that large of an area. After covering most of the floor and seeing most everything, I have to say I loved all of the sets and props from the movies. I was A little bit disappointed that they were roped off and it was even difficult to try to take a picture with so many people telling you to stand back, but I do understand how much money they're worth and what could happen to them.

After further inspection of the whole floor I was slightly offended and yet very impressed that they had open bars on the floor. A nice touch but a slight risk. I'm not quite sure how I feel about this yet, as I did not see any drunk people or heard of any negative comments regarding the bar. As per usual the same concession stands in the hall were there. I believe it would be helpful, if like the bars, there were smaller food concession stands around the hall or in the lobby. What few panels I went to I thought were very organized and had the maximum amount of seating that was possible. The only thing I believe that would improve this would be to make the panels slightly farther apart as lines build up and people start to bicker as panels are being released and people are being let in. The tattoo pavilion seemed like a stroke of genius, although I did not want any tattoos, many people (including a close friend) got a tattoo and loved it. With Star Wars having such a large fan base I was unimpressed with the artist alley as it seemed very small compared to other cons that I've attended. Overall I very much so enjoyed myself and look forward to the next time Star Wars Celebration is in my area. I will definitely be attending it.

The next Star Wars Celebration will be in Europe at London's ExCel Center on July 15-17, 2016. Tickets are now available at www.starwarscelebration.com

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