June 30-July 2: BlerdCon

BlerdCon is a new convention in D.C. that includes the usual set-up of celebrity guests, panels, gaming, cosplay, etc. But two things make it different. First, is its focus on “minority nerds” (the convention website says “Blerd” is an acronym for “Black nerd”), though it notes that it is inclusive of all anime, comic books, sci-fi, gaming and cosplay fans. Second, the breadth is really impressive, as it includes all sort of things, like comedy, music and stage combat. Looks like there is something for everyone.

In the comics area, local troupe Art Way Alliance holds a comics-making workshop (“The Power of Panels/Mapping Out Your Comic Story”) on Friday, and later in the days there’s a panel titled “Get Your Comics and Projects Featured in Media Now! (18+).” On Sunday, there’s a panel called “LGBT Responsibility in Comics and Pop Culture.” There are a few more comics-related panel, so check out the program. There's also an artist alley all weekend. 

Three-day tickets are $45. The event is being held at Hyatt Crystal City in Arlington, Va.

 

Image courtesy of Eric Suggs/Art Way Alliance