By CAMILA FERNANDEZ
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
Thousands of people from around the world are in Indianapolis for the 20th Gen Con. Organizers expect around 70,000 people.
On Friday, thousands of people were outside the Indiana Convention Center for a block party that will help kick-off the four-day event. It’s the first year the convention will return to pre-COVID-19 activities and requirements, which means no masks or proof of vaccination.
Gen Con will offer its thousands of fans gaming, shopping, cosplaying, and food. Organizers say there will be around 19,000 events including board games, card games, entertainment, and more.
“We love the fact that we feel to be such an integral part of Indianapolis and what goes on in the area,” said Stacia Kirby, spokesperson for Gen Con. “We’ve watched the convention center grow over the years and we’re looking to see the expansion again of the area as we grow Indianapolis convention is growing.”
Earlier this week, News 8’s Camila Fernandez spoke with a couple of business owners who said Gen Con makes a huge positive impact on their businesses thanks to all the foot traffic.
“You can spend the entire weekend just trying out games and playing games,” said Loren Coleman, the owner of Catalyst Game Lab. “We’re here to just show stuff off. You don’t have to buy anything. You can search for the perfect game, or if you’re a major gamer, you can fill your trunk full of awesome products that’s debuting here at the show.”
Gen Con also offers thousands of games and events that will be available online for those who want to participate in the event virtually.
Click here to get your badge to attend Gen Con. Prices vary widely by day, with Sunday being the cheapest to attend at $17.
The event will wrap up Sunday.
Reporter photos by Nik Roberts