Nicosia’s State Fair burst into life early this morning as Cyprus Comic Con opened its doors for its annual extravaganza.
By 9 am, the parking lots were already filling up fast; already hundreds of eager attendees – many in cosplay – were queuing at the gates for tickets.
Inside, the excitement was palpable: the pavilions buzzed with life and, as the crowd streamed in, they were greeted by a kaleidoscope of activities.
In the Medieval Zone, the CyHerbia witch and wench brewed potions, sold sage smudge sticks, and offered free tarot card readings to a chosen few. Next door, UK-based Fragers had set up life-size Dungeons and Dragons arenas for a fully immersive adventure experience.
Inside the main hall, countless artists displayed a stunning array of work, offering everything from hand-drawn postcards to intricate illustrations of popular fictional figures. Stephanis and FunkoPop had their own booths, drawing crowds with their latest collectibles and merchandise, while Gamers’ Boulevard was abuzz with fans eager to check out the latest gaming gear and memorabilia.
An orc and an elf at Fire Alchemy sold magical hot sauces and dips, students played a massive Jenga game and demonstrated their robotic creations. Next to the Cyprus Computer Museum’s impressive display, retro arcade games offered a nostalgic touch to the tech-savvy crowd.
Meanwhile, recruitment agency HR Innovate was buzzing with activity as expert programmers and tech professionals networked over the perfect job opportunity.
Outside, the air of excitement was enhanced by the ethereal sounds of Arnulf the Medieval Bard, whose melodies drifted over the crowd from the main stage. And the food court was already in full swing, with hamburgers and hotdogs for all, and plenty of water on hand to mitigate the unseasonable temperatures!
Professional wrestling matches were set to take place at 3pm, and 6pm, with more scheduled for Sunday. And while Tabletop gaming, including Magic: The Gathering, will run throughout the weekend, archery will be available all day for those who fancy themselves medieval warriors.
Cyprus Comic Con launched in 2014, and now draws thousands of visitors from all over the island.
The team behind the event spend all year preparing for the annual extravaganza, securing top-tier international guests (which, this year, include House of Dragons’ star Clinton Liberty, and The Mandalorian’s Simon Kassianides) and orchestrating a seamless experience for all.
The gates will be open until 10pm this evening, and from 9am to 11pm tomorrow. Tickets are available at the door
