Comicpalooza breaks own attendance record

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - Comicpalooza crossed the 40,000 attendance plateau in 2015 and has surpassed that amount by even more in 2016. Visitors from 46 states entered the George R. Brown Convention Center from Friday, June 17 until Sunday, June 19.

More than 43,800 people attended the three-day event where they enjoyed panel discussions, celebrity autograph sessions, art, gaming, flim, fantasy cosplay and other activities.

"Comicpalooza is a diverse and vibrant event -- it presents an opportunity for artists, writers, filmmakers and even engineers to showcase their talent for the public to experience," said John Simons, founder of Comicpalooza. "Our partnership the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau and Houston First has allowed the event to scale much more quickly, while enhancing the experience for our attendees, guests and exhibitors."

Among the celebrities taking part in the event were Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, Paul Reiser, Kate Beckinsale, Norman Reedus, Carl Weathers, Lou Ferrigno and a surprise appearance by "Sons of Anarchy" star Charlie Hunnam.

"This year's Comicpalooza was an unqualified success and we are proud of the event's major cultural and fiscal impact on our city," said Michael Heckman, senior vice president, partnerships and event development for Houston First Corporation. "It is our goal to present a premier show each year that can provide unique entertainment to Houstonians, while being a magnet for attracting visitors to Houston."

Comicpalooza will return to the George R. Brown Convention Center from May 12 until May 14 in 2017. The event will resume its traditional Memorial Day weekend dates starting in 2018.