Photo provided by John Wells
What: Columbia MO Comic & Toy Show
Where: Columbia Mall
When: Jan. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Website: visitcolumbiamo.com/event/columbia-mo-comic-toy-show
Calling all Leonards, Sheldons, Howards and Rajs! The Comic & Toy Show is coming to town, promising a day of nostalgia, excitement and rare finds. Presented by Quad Con, the Columbia edition of the Comic & Toy Show will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 25 at the Columbia Mall.
Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage action figures, the latest comic book releases or unique collectibles, this event is a must-attend for fans of all ages. With over 60 vendors, it’s the perfect place to celebrate your favorite fandoms and uncover treasures to add to your collection.
Quad Con event coordinator John Wells says the event is a throwback to what pop culture shows used to be like before it became largely corporate.
“We are basically just a bunch of nerds getting together, selling our wares,” he says. “You’re also going to get the best deals at our shows because the vendors don’t have to pay a lot to set up. If you’re into anything pop culture, there’s no reason not to come out, unless you don’t want to pay for the gas.”
Quad Con began eight years ago and has grown across the Midwest, with shows in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and more.
“This will be our fourth time in Columbia, and every time it’s grown,” Wells says. “I think more and more people are realizing that you don’t have to break the bank in order to have a fun time and celebrate your nerdiness.”
Wells has been participating in shows since 1987, boasting over 35 years in the world of pop culture. “I’m a lifelong fanboy, so I’m always looking for new things I’ve never seen,” he says. “Beyond that though, it’s the people who drive the events because of the relationships built with the different fans… now you’ve got friends across the world.”
While there will not be a full cosplay competition, the event will have a cosplay showcase to encourage attendees to embrace their “inner nerd” by dressing up. A winner will be selected by luck, using a random number generator to give out a $50 prize.
“This way there’s no drama with judging, and no one gets their feelings hurt,” Wells says. “People understand that we’re all here to have a good time and have a lot of fun.” Wells says he would encourage people to visit each artist and vendor to get the most out of the event.
“Each one will bring something unique or different,” he says. “If you don’t like comic books, that’s fine, because there’s also toys, art and more. There’s always going to be something for everyone.
