The first clues are subtle: A few more questions about costume design, increased activity around the graphic novels, and more visitors searching for Pokémon books, tabletop roleplaying games, and video games. Before we know it, hundreds of artists, gamers, and cosplayers will descend upon the Aurora Public Library District for our 7th annual CAPE Con (Comics And Pop Culture Extravaganza)! Saturday, Aug. 29, heroes, villains, wizards, Jedi, Pokémon trainers, and adventurers of all ages will be heading through the Santori Library doors! Are you ready to join them?
This year, we are preparing for our biggest convention yet! CAPE Con will feature a staggering 15 programs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. “That number doesn’t include the Fandom Lounge with snacks, the arcade games, the scavenger hunt, or all of our amazing community partners,” said event organizer Elliot. “I’m really proud of just how full we’ve stuffed this day with gaming demos, talks from comics professionals, amazing cosplayers, and especially Pokémon-themed activities. There’s going to be a lot of them!”
If you’re not into Pokémon, don’t worry! With programs like ‘Design & Draw like a Pro’, ‘How to Play a Tabletop Roleplaying Game’, and the ‘Rootin’ Tootin’ Character Dance Party’, there’s truly something for all ages. You’ll get a real convention experience and it’s all for free! “We hope everyone will come and make some really fun and meaningful core memories,” shared event & program coordinator Ali.
Our staff has their own core memories from the event; most revolve around our attendees’ costumes, which are always a highlight! “During the Cosplay Fashion Show, customers are invited to show off their creations,” said Ali. “One year, a young girl shyly stepped out, eager to share her princess dress but not quite confident enough to walk down the catwalk. To her delight, everyone cheered, she twirled, and we certainly hope she joins us again this year.” Elliot also has a special memory from the Fashion Show. “Everyone was supportive of each other, so happy to see the costumes everyone else had brought, so proud of what they had created. There was no judgment; there were no egos, just a crowd of loving people coming together around their shared interests.” Moments like what these are why CAPE Con matters.
So let the countdown begin! Mark your calendar for Saturday, Aug. 29 and prepare yourself for (according to Elliot) the “best day you’ll ever have at the library!” The comics are ready. The gamers are ready. The Pokémon are apparently very ready… now all we need is you! To view the day’s schedule visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/16737559 or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.