Comic Con treks to Toronto

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Put on your capes and draw that lightsaber — Comic Con is just around the corner.

With kids, teenagers and adults from all over flocking in to catch a glimpse of their favourite writer, fantasy celebrity or to see what's new this year in the comic world, Toronto is sure to be buzzing with crazy hair, blue skin and intricate costumes.

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre will host Wizard World Toronto Comic Con on April 14 and 15. There is a lot to cram into this two-day convention, with people such as Stargate Atlantis star Paul McGillion, Jeri Ryan and Scott Bakula from the Star Trek series and many more special guests making appearances.

World-class comic book creators will also be making the trek to the convention, such as Marv Wolfman, an Eisner Hall of Fame writer, and artist Mike Deodato Jr. of The Amazing Spider-Man and Wonder Woman. There will be dozens of cutting-edge writers, creators and artists making a visit to Comic Con.

Brahm Wiseman, Owner of Heroes Comics store in London, said an event like this doesn't come without crowds and long lines. "It's a big celebration of all things, not necessarily comics but pop culture. There are big crowds of people into all sorts of stuff and a lot of dealers and other things to check out."

It is a great opportunity to see what is up and coming, he said. "A few big publishers of comics are there, so you can see what's coming out and what toys and movie trailers are coming out. You can see new video games that will be released and you can even try them," he continued. "If you've never been to one, you should check it out."

As an alternative for people who can't make the trip to Toronto, Heroes Comics has events of their own. On March 14, they'll partner with other local comic dealers and the downtown London Public Library for Comic Book Jam, an event that celebrates all things comic books and graphic novels.

People can dress up and take part in "discussions on comics and group activities," said Wiseman. "We give away comics and we do this superhero photobooth where people can come and dress up in costumes we supply or bring their own and have their picture taken."

There is also a costume contest. Wiseman said some costumes are impressive and hysterical. "One year, someone came dressed as a Chocobo, a bird from Final Fantasy. It was like a big, giant baby chicken. It was very impressive."

Comic Book Jam takes place at the Central branch of the London Public Library (251 Dundas St.) from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on March 14. But if you like the crowds and want to meet some big faces in the industry, tickets and information for Wizard World Comic Con in Toronto are available at wizardworldcomiccon.com.