Comic book lovers come down to Toronto as Comicon returns after a pandemic hiatus

The 18 to 20 March event marks the first major personal convention of the city since the pandemic began.

Shade Hansen, who cosplays Cinderella, said this was her first comic and that she was “so excited” to participate.

Dillon Tapper, one of the young contestants of Toronto Comicon, said that being Wolverine’s favorite superhero, he decided to cosplay as a comic book character.

“I had nothing else at home,” he said. Still, Dillon said, “it’s really nice” to have his first comic.

Daniel Schwarze, disguised as The Mandalorian Star Warssaid it took him a year to make his costume and he was “really excited” to finally get the opportunity to wear it on Comicon.

Organizers say fans of the iconic 90s anime Sailor Moon they are having a fun year this year with a full day dedicated to the series including a cast reunion panel, music celebration, fan meetups, trivia, a plushie workshop and more, all celebrating their 30th anniversary.

New this year, Toronto Comicon also presents podcast programming with a selection that includes the impromptu True Crime podcast Killed in death a Comedy Interview Series You made me queer!

Dave Cave, cosplaying as Batman, said: “I feel great to be here. Every time I put on my Batman outfit I can have fun.”

“This is fantastic. Going out, seeing everyone and having all the kids take pictures with me. I love it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Garcia, cosplaying as Darth Vader of Star Wars, said the last two years have been “terrible” and it feels “fantastic” to be back.

Other highlights for the next three days include celebrity panels, a kids cosplay contest and sketch showdowns by top comic creators.

The organizers say that even the youngest superheroes have something to do.

Activities include epic fort building and princess sing-a-longs, sorting out hat ceremonies, Harry Potter Photo-ops, craft workshops, sustainability garden and slime making.