A Fun Cosplay and Comics Convention Is Coming to Sarasota Next Month
Sarasota is welcoming a new comic convention and culture pop show to town next month. The event includes an array of activities including cosplay contest, meet-and-greets with famous artists and actors and tournaments.
Dig out your comic books and throw on your favorite cosplay outfit, because SarasotaCon is coming to town on Aug. 13.
Although its the first event of its kind in Sarasota, the comic pop culture event is well established in other cities around the state.
“We do a show in Fort Myers and Orlando every year, and we always hear from people in Sarasota,” says Carmine De Santo, a representative for the event. “So we thought you guys were overdue for a show."
SarasotaCon caters to people of all ages interested in comic books and collectors' items. A cosplay contest at 4 p.m. invites attendees to do their best impersonations of DC, Marvel and anime characters. The event also includes more than 100 vendors, a gaming room, panels and special guest appearances ranging from popular cosplayers and television stars to famous comic book artists and wrestlers.
Celebrity guests include Graham Nolan, creator of the comic book character Bane; Tracy Lynn Cruz, who portrayed the yellow Power Ranger; wrestling legends The Killer Bees; and Avera, a famous cosplay artist and TikToker.
Of course, a comic convention wouldn’t be complete without some famous set pieces and characters. "Baby," the car used in the television series Supernatural, will be on site. And professional cosplayers from the 501st Legion of Star Wars and Mandalorian Mercs will also set the mood.
“It’s a great day for the family," says De Santo. "It’s not just for geeks or nerds anymore.”
SarasotaCon takes place 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at the Carlisle Inn & Conference Center, 3727 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children and free for children under 11. Check out a series of exclusive tickets for tournaments and gaming, early admission, meet-and-greets and photo opps. Parking is free. Follow the event on Facebook or Instagram for updates.
