TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Fantasy worlds collided at the Tampa Convention Center this weekend as METROCON stopped in Tampa for its 23rd year.
“It feels like even though you’re strangers, you have something in common with them,” said Heidi Craddock, director of exhibits for METROCON.
Fans of anime, cartoons, and video games all came together to sit through seminars, meet new people, and get face time with some of the voices behind their favorite characters.
Turn Around Don’t Drown: Flash floods create dangerous road conditions in Tampa Bay
“It’s like meeting a superstar almost because they seem larger than life kind of,” said con-goer Penelope Valsamis.
Several cosplayers donned their most story-accurate costumes over the weekend as well, hoping to make an impression.
“It’s like so exciting to have other people that share interests with you all in one spot,” said Valsamis.
Valsamis said she’s excited to cosplay for her first time at a convention. For moral support, she brought her dad along as well – and put him in character.
100+ cars block I-75 in ‘street takeover,’ 4 arrested: Florida Highway Patrol
“It’s all new,” said her dad, Evangelo Valsamis. “Some characters I’ve never seen before, but I’m doing what we’re supposed to do as parents: support our children no matter what – and here I am.”
Convention goers say they’re excited to find their niche interests on display. Henry Duffy said it’s a place where he feels seen.
“If there’s places that you don’t normally fit in, this is a place where everyone is welcome,” said Duffy. “No matter who you are, someone here is going to appreciate you.”
Sunday was the final day of the 3-day convention. Cosplayers say they’re taking home with them some inspiration they’ll apply to their cosplay during the next METROCON.