Comic book connoisseurs can anticipate the return of Eternal Con, Long Island’s largest pop culture event of its kind, this summer in Hempstead.
The two-day event, dubbed “the Long Island Comic Con,” will be held at Hofstra University’s David Mack Exhibition Complex on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Aug. 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Frank Patz, the founder, president and producer of Eternal Con, knows how much it means to fans to have this event back.
“We all need superheroes in our life, especially at this time,” Patz said. “Something like this brings back the hope that we’re going back to normal.”
The return of Eternal Con marks the opportunity for people to share their love for all things pop culture, as well as the chance for small businesses to be involved after a challenging year. Comic shops will sell their items, and vendors who can’t make the event will be granted free advertising at the convention.
“We want to help. We’re asking any other businesses on Long Island that need help at this time to contact us,” Patz said. “It helps everybody, and that’s something that is very important for us.”
The convention has a bevy of opportunities for fans to engage with some of the people behind the characters and stories they love. The stars that will be taking photos and signing autographs this year include Ray Fisher, known for his portrayal of Cyborg in the most recent Justice League film franchise, and Reb Brown, who starred as Steve Rogers in the 1979 Captain America film. Other names include Amy Jo Johnson, the original Pink Power Ranger of the “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers,” as well as Dean Cain, who is best known for his dual role as Clark Kent and Superman in the 1990s TV series, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.
Eternal Con’s cosplay contest will return for the fans who enjoy donning the look of their favorite characters. The event will include a pre-judging session and a walk-through display, while the judges will grade the costume itself, the workmanship, design, and inspiration of the ensembles. Interpretations of mainstream characters and self-creative originals are welcome from any and all genres.
Attendees will also be able to check out some iconic vehicles of pop culture at Eternal Con’s car show, including the DeLorean from Back to the Future, K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider, several iterations of the Batmobile, and more.
On Sunday, Aug. 8, kids can partake in “Youngling Training.” A group of Jedi instructors will supervise a training session to learn basic lightsaber choreography and technique. Each padawan who participates will receive a free Jedi diploma. There will also be a “Kids Costume Showcase” at noon, meet-and-greets with professionals in the comic book industry, as well as many of the superheroes in attendance, and live illustration demonstrations and opportunities for kids to create their own art.
Tickets for one-day entry are $20 on Saturday and $15 on Sunday, while children ages 9 and under are free. Proceeds from this year’s Eternal Con will help raise money for several charities in the Long Island community.
Sign up for Long Island Press’ email newsletters here. Sign up for home delivery of Long Island Press here. Sign up for discounts by becoming a Long Island Press community partner here.
