Destination YQG – Windsor ComiCon!
When Steve Menzie brought Windsor ComiCon to town in 2015, there was a great cheer heard across the land. Menzie had an extensive resume delivering successful pop culture events such as “Fan Expo Canada,” “Toronto ComiCon” and other programs across Canada and the U.S.
“Windsor was primed for an event such as this,” says Menzie, President of Windsor ComiCon. “With the rich history and talent of local artists and writers who are working on major titles for the likes of DC and Marvel Comics, the foundation had already been set for a signature program such as this, which celebrates local culture.”
A full slate of programming will be provided through this colossal, all-ages event, including popular genres such as comics, sci-fi, horror, gaming, anime and cosplay.
The fans of Windsor Essex have rallied in support of this signature event. Caesars Windsor, as a supporting partner, is hosting “Windsor ComiCon” again this year.
“Caesars Windsor provides a four-star venue for all of your entertainment and convention needs,” says Scott Fischburg, Director, Resort and Hotel Sales, Caesars Windsor. “Our staff members provide an exceptional experience for guests and fans alike, which will continue to set the tone for this year’s ‘ComiCon’.”
Outside the walls of The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island invited visitors to not only enjoy the bounty of offerings at the Con, but local hotels, restaurants, and businesses as well.
“The variety of entertainment options available within Windsor Essex make our region a destination for over 4.8 million visitors per year, adding close to half a billion dollars to the economy, and ‘Windsor ComiCon’ will add to that mix,” says Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island CEO, Gordon Orr. “From food and drink to arts and culture, we have plenty of reasons why you’ll love the Windsor Essex region, and we look forward to ‘Windsor ComiCon’ being a tourism enhancer to that experience.”
Of course local businesses in the comic industry will be on site.
Rogues Gallery Comics, owned and operated by local Windsorite, Shawn Cousineau has been at the foundation of the Con, providing support and promotion since its inception. Rogues Gallery Comics can be found at 327 Chatham Street West in downtown Windsor and on the web at: RGComics.com.
“Events like ‘Windsor ComiCon’ need to exist,” Cousineau believes. “It provides an opportunity for Rogues to gain exposure while driving new customers to the shop who may be curious one-time buyers or returning clients that set-up ongoing files.”
And the 2015 Biz X Award winner for “The Model For Success Hobby Shop” Paper Heroes Comic Book Lounge & Collectibles, is participating as well.
“‘Windsor ComiCon’provides a bigger venue for our community to celebrate the hobby together in one place,” says Scott St. Amour, Owner, Paper Heroes, 2857 Howard Avenue in Windsor. “It also gives me an opportunity to drive new business to my store.” Visit their Facebook page.
Cartoon Kingdom at 2001 Provincial Road in Windsor also will be a vendor with an amazing selection of products from all kinds of studios, eras, characters and theme brands. Check them out at the event or visit them by logging onto: CartoonKingdom.ca.
The Support Group
This year, “Windsor ComiCon” reached out to a variety of new partners, including the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA). Staff and BIA members are currently working to generate events and strategies to drive traffic to local businesses in the city centre.
According to DWBIA Executive Director Debi Croucher, “We’re thrilled to partner with the Con and we’re lining up a unique suite of opportunities that supports local business and engages families through super hero takeovers!”
