Culture PickWonderCon, which some liken to Comic-Con’s mini-me, is primed to capture its own shining moment this weekend. After the past two years of pandemic-cancellations, online/hybrid events and less than interactive festivities, the quirkier if equally cosplay-driven event offers panels, photo ops and activations for fans of all sorts, whether you love superheroes, horror, anime, comics or collecting. Founded in Oakland in 1987, WonderCon moved to San Francisco in 2003 and then to Anaheim in 2012. While it was held at the LA Convention Center in 2016, it returned to Anaheim in 2017, where it stayed until 2020-2021 when COVID-19 forced postponement. Like ComicCon, it’s been missed so expect the energy to be super-powered this weekend. Discussion, celebration, merch drops and costumed fans inspired by TV, film, video games and pop culture and nostalgia driven brands lead the event and so far, scheduled highlights include Star Trek: Picard and Star Wars (natch) panels; Titanic 666, Suicide Squad, The Hobbit and Heavy Metal magazine panels; Funko toys and more. Also note that all event rooms have limited capacities so to ensure access, get in line early. Autograph signings are also limited. In addition to wearing an approved face covering, you will be required to provide verification of full COVID-19 vaccination status or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. At Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W. Katella Ave. Anaheim. Fri., April 1st-Sun., Aoril 3, Badge info here.

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.