Strange as it is for me to say, for all the reports I do and all the things I enjoy in the entertainment industry, I had never gone to a Comic-con before.  Of course, I’d seen and heard of some of the famous ones like SDCC and NYCC, but I never had time to go to them myself.  Now, that has changed with Steel City Con.

Recently, I got the opportunity to attend all three days of Steel City Con, held at the Monroeville Convention Center in Pittsburgh PA.  Over the course of these three days, I would get the opportunity to interact and immerse myself in the geek culture of Pittsburgh.  This includes talking to various local vendors and artists, cos-players, and even getting the opportunity to live out childhood dreams.  This article, and the ones that follow, shall detail my account of Steel City Con.

DECEMBER 9, 2022

First Impressions from the Vendors at Steel City Con.

Courtesy of Daniel Cunningham

One of the first impressions I had when entering was how much there was.  From the number of people, the vendors with a variety of goods and entertainment.  For a first timer such as myself, it was all overwhelming.  Still, after a bit of time, and with help with regular convention goers and hardworking staff, I was able to find my way with greater ease.  It certainly helped that the convention was separated with 3 main areas; the vendors, celebrity tables, and the event room.  The vendors started right at the main entrance, and would consist of a variety of items.  Some which stood out to me included vendors from various artists and authors.

One such author was Nate ‘NJJ’ (instagram : njj_studio_art – twitter @NJJSTUDIOART), who had recently launched the first entree in his graphic novel series D.S.R. Deep Space Rescue Volume No.1.  When referring to his work, he explains, “In the end… it’s about letting go.  We can’t control everything, can’t keep things the same, or stop the inevitability of life and death.  The story is framed around rescue workers in space.”

Steel City Con Cosplay

Of course, a common aspect of many conventions, comic-cons especially, is cosplay.  Of course, the closest most people would get to cosplay would perhaps be dressing up for Halloween, but for many, cosplay is something more.  I had the opportunity to speak with those who partake in cosplay.  Aaliyah(instagram : flavorlessdessert) and her friends who attended as characters from the hit anime Attack on Titan, explained to me, ‘My favorite thing about cosplay is the community!  Everybody is so kind, and I’m able to connect with people that have the same interest.  Our community is so creative as well.  I love being able to support artists and small businesses!’

Courtesy of Daniel Cunningham

Looking forward, the costume contest will occur from 1-5 PM on Sunday.  Throughout the first day, I had seen many costumes with so much love and care put into them.  All of those that I spoke to showed so much enthusiasm and love for what they had done, and listening to them so excitedly share to me what they loved about cosplay certainly left me with a huge smile on my face.  I truly look forward to the costume contents come Sunday, and perhaps I’ll look into doing a cosplay myself.

Celebrity Signings and Childhood Delight

Whether we want to admit it or not, we all find ourselves awestruck when a celebrity we are a fan of is in our presence.  For myself, it was no different.  Steel City Con had no shortage of notable names in attendance; from WWE Legends such as The Undertaker, to the 4 Hobbits from the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.  Chevy Chase, Bonnie Wright, and so many more were in attendance, that crowds of all types were attracted.

Still, among the celebrities attending Steel City Con, Steve Burns was among my most anticipated.  Growing up watching Blue’s Clues as a young kid, I was as big a fan of that show as many others.  I had small thinking chairs, handy-dandy notebooks, and various DVDs and VHS collections.  Even as an adult, I never could forget all of the jingles and tunes that had become synonymous with childhood.  As such, when I stood in line anticipating my chance for an autograph, I was quite taken aback with the moment he arrived.

Courtesy of Daniel Cunningham

There was certainly a level of excitement and anticipation with his arrival.  Still, to hear the long line that had formed clap and chant his name upon his arrival, was heartwarming.  I may not have known the man, but still seeing the love that people have for him after all these years left me feeling nothing short of happy.

Of course, when I finally reached him, I couldn’t quite find the words to express what many others have said.  He helped make so many happy, childhood memories for me and so many others.  While I would’ve loved to have sat there and talked with him all day, things have to move along.  Still, the childlike joy I felt brought me back to simpler, less troublesome times.

Summary of Day 1

As much sensory overload as it may have been, my first time at Steel City Con, let alone any con, was an exciting affair.  Already, the sense of community and excitement was intoxicating, and I just found myself wanting to do everything that I possibly could while there.  Still, with two days remaining, I have a lot more to look forward to.  Steel City Con is without question the place to be if you are down in the Pittsburgh area.

Check out Steel City Cons website here!