Comic book fanatics, anime lovers, and superhero fans gathered at ArlingCon, Arlington’s annual FREE pop culture convention, last Saturday.

With the support of the Arlington Public Library and UTA Libraries, ArlingonCon celebrated its 5th year at the University of Texas at Arlington’s E.H. Hereford University Center. ArlingCon 2019 was funded in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

The convention featured workshops and panel discussions as well as a Cosplay Runway, Cosplay Contest, Vendor and Artist Hall, Exhibit Hall, and a Game Room. For the first time this year the convention also featured local authors and artists for discussions and book signings.

This family friendly event created an educational and welcoming environment for those new to pop culture conventions. Several experienced cosplay talent also mixed and mingled at the event. The event has grown consistently over the past five years. Over 3,000 people were in attendance this year.