Facts About EgyCon
EGYcon is an annual speculative fiction convention in Cairo, Egypt, that unites a diverse assembly of gamers, mangakas, otakus, bookworms, Potterheads, and cosplayers. Inaugurated in 2013 with modest meet-ups, the convention rapidly expanded into a comprehensive event by 2014, attracting enthusiasts from various backgrounds. It has garnered attention from numerous media outlets, including coverage by Kenneth James in the Daily News Egypt and IGN.
The 2014 edition of EGYcon was held at Al-Sawy Cultural Wheel, located on the banks of the Nile, and reported an official attendance of 1,600 people. Participants enjoyed a range of activities such as cosplay competitions, stand-up comedy, manga corners, and a performance by a metal band.
In 2015, the event transitioned to The GrEEK Campus in downtown Cairo, with attendance rising to 2,300. This edition signified the launch of marketing efforts through the EGYcon Facebook page, significantly increasing its reach and media coverage. Highlights included performances by a cosplay team from Tokyo, Japanese gourmet booths, and gaming sections.
Continuing its success, EGYcon 2016, still hosted at The GrEEK Campus, drew 3,200 attendees. The convention impressed participants with its remarkable cosplay displays and a variety of stores selling anime, manga, gaming, and comic merchandise. Gaming championships, including a Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament, were particularly popular, and the Japan Foundation even provided free cosplay trials.
EGYcon has firmly established itself as Egypt's premier geek convention, consistently growing in popularity and offering diverse programming that appeals to fans of speculative fiction and related genres.