Comics, cosplay and collectibles are just a few of the entertainment opportunities in store at the Colorado Cosmic Con on Saturday and Sunday.

Held at Norris Penrose Event Center, the family-oriented event is in its third year and has seen a steady increase in participation each year, according to coordinator John Hernandez.

“Our first year, we held it in a small hotel, and about 900 people showed up,” Hernandez said. “Last year, we brought in almost 2,000. This year, we’re hoping for at least 3,000.”

More than 100 vendors will be on hand at the convention, offering a broad spectrum of pop culture items, including comic books, toys, sports cards, movie memorabilia, Pokemon items, Funko Pops and other collectibles.

“There’s something for everyone,” Hernandez said. “Whether you’re into comics, movies, or just want to hang out with other fans, this is the place you want to be this weekend.”

Much like at Comic Con, which takes place in August, cosplay is encouraged, with contests on both days. Hernandez said he has been impressed with the creative ways attendees have expressed their fandom.

“Sometimes it’s hard to believe that many of these costumes are designed and made from scratch,” he said. “A lot of these folks put a lot of time and effort into making their costumes, and it shows. We love that.

“We also encourage the kids to come out. So many of them only get to wear their Halloween costumes once, and that’s it. This is a chance to get one more use out of it.”

Expect to see a lot of attendees and guests dressed like famous mob figures from “Goodfellas,” “The Sopranos,” “The Irishman” and other favorites, Hernandez said.

“This year, we decided to go with a Mob Con theme,” he said. “This is kind of a risk, because it’s a little different. But I think people will like it.”

There aren’t many places where you can hang out with Stormtroopers, Ghostbusters, superheroes and mobsters, but those opportunities, and more, await pop culture fans at the Cosmic Con this weekend.

“There will be things to do all day long,” Hernandez said. “Come on out, bring the kids, and enjoy it all.”

IF YOU GO

What: Colorado Cosmic Con

When: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday

Where: Norris Penrose Event Center, 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road

Price: $20 and up for ages 8-15; $35 and up for ages 16 and older; coloradocosmiccon.com

MEDIA GUESTS

R Bruce Elliott
John Gremillion
Chris George
Jason Cerbone
Matt Servitto
Dan Grimaldi
Robert Funaro
Louis Vanaria
Joseph D’Onofrio
Christopher Serrone

COSPLAY GUESTS

HeatherAfter Cosplay
Kylon Cosplay
KillerCutie Cosplay
Sakun Cosplay

CREATIVE GUESTS

Tim Miller
Stace Johnson
Junior Sajbel