Thu, October 8, 2026 at 7:06 AM UTC
It’s a major event in many people’s calendars – and preparations have to start early if you’re planning to dress to impress. New York Comic Con (NYCC) returns this weekend (October 8 to 11), celebrating its 20th anniversary with a Coney Island-inspired theme.
As always, attendees are expected to dress up as theirfavorite pop culture characters while celebrating everything from comic books and TV shows to movies, gaming and anime. A statement from NYCC reads: “We’re celebrating 20 years of NYCC by partnering with this staple New York institution for our 2026 theme. Two cultural icons coming together to highlight the places where New Yorkers and those visiting have been playing for decades.
“We turn crowds into communities and moments into memories, creating a sense of belonging that brings together people from all over to embrace shared passions.”
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However, with huge crowds expected to descend on the event as usual, one social media user decided to ask fellow fans for their best advice, writing: “What are your Comic Con hacks?”
People watching
For those unable to secure tickets, or anyone who needs a break from the busy convention floor, one user suggested simply watching the action from outside the main event.
They said: “The people watching and the events downtown are just as much a part of the experience as the conference itself. Even if you don’t have a ticket, go to a restaurant and sit outside. You’ll have a great time.”
Game while waiting
There’s no escaping the queues at Comic Con, but a little preparation can make the wait much more bearable.
One user suggested: “Bring small bag or backpack, have easy dice or card games, water, and pack snacks that won’t get messy and helps with waiting in really long lines. I’m looking at you Hall H.”
Make a purchase plan
Another user recommended taking a look around the exhibition floor before immediately reaching for your wallet, suggesting visitors plan their purchases carefully.
They said: “Visit the exhibition booths early and plan for purchases at the end. Also, look for schedules with events and people you want to see. Careful planning can lead to a more fruitful con.”
Skip the lines altogether
For anyone wanting to squeeze as much as possible into their day, one fan suggested simply avoiding the longest queues.
Rather than spending hours waiting for one particular attraction, they recommended finding something else to do instead.
They said: “If the line is long, find something else to do; there’s too much going on to waste time waiting for That One Thing. If your second choice has too much line? Go get a beer instead.”
Become a volunteer
Others encouraged fans to consider volunteering at the convention, claiming it can be a great way to attend without paying for a ticket.
One user said: “Years ago I volunteered at a booth and was able to enjoy the con the rest of the day. So if you’re on a budget but want to go there’s potential opportunities for a ‘free’ ticket with volunteering!”
Another added: “I’ve attended ‘Con for decades – as a regular attendee, volunteer, vendor, and press (odds are good that we have mutual former co-workers, OP) – the most enjoyment I’ve had was as a volunteer.”
