Going to a Pop Culture Convention Doesn’t Need to Cost You the Earth

Armageddon is coming to a city near you! Armageddon is NZ’s major pop culture convention and can be a super fun way to spend a day (or a whole weekend!). It can also get quite pricey. Check out these tips and tricks for keeping the price bearable, while still having a fantastic time.

(Image credit: Facebook - 501st Legion - Outpost 42)

1. Pre-book your tickets: Buying your tickets in advance will save a little money – so get in and buy that ticket early!
2. Kids tickets – Armageddon lets kids 4 and under in without charge. You can also save with a family pass, making it an awesome day for the whole family. At the upcoming #Wintergeddon kids 5-12 are also FREE with a paying adult or student!
3. VIP passes – these are sometimes available for Armageddon, but are best for the die-hard fans – they’re not a great option if you’re on a limited budget. Most of the same experiences are on offer with a regular ticket, you just don’t get to skip the queues.
4. Dress up – this is a great way to get your kids (and you!) into the spirit of the event. It also opens up some extra activities, as there are events such as group photos and cosplay parades that you can take part in that don’t cost any money. Whether your child is dressed as Lord Voldemort or Captain America, there’s bound to be someone in a complementary costume to battle with, then get a quick photo!
5. Guest Panels – these are more for adults and older kids who can sit still and listen for 55 minutes. These are a great way to find out behind-the-scenes info on your favourite movies and TV shows, and they don’t cost a cent!
6. Workshops – another free activity usually for the older crowd, these panels can be on anything from costume making, writing books, creating comics, make-up tutorials, forging weapons and so much more! Find one that interests you and learn from the experts
7. Celebrity Guests – in the autograph area, it’s a little-known fact that you can go up and say a quick hello to your favourite guest without purchasing an autograph. Of course, for a more lasting memory, you can purchase a personalised autograph or have a professional photo with them
8. Fan clubs and models – take the time to walk around the whole convention. You’ll be surprised at the range of things to see and do. There will usually be a fan club or two with cool props that you can interact with. Make sure you look for the Outpost 42 – the NZ Garrison of the worldwide Star War cosplay community, the 501st Legion, who do epic Star Wars dress-ups. You may also find real and replica TV and movie props brought in for you to have photos with, such as a full-sized Dalek, Star Wars droid, or like in Christchurch 2021, a full-sized rocket ship!
9. Communal spaces – while you’re wandering around, make sure you go out into the communal spaces. It’s not uncommon to find a mock battle of some kind going on, or even random video game characters practising their dance moves!
10. Food and drink – these are available to purchase at the venue, but if you’re trying to stick to a tight budget, you’re better off bringing your own food and drink, as they can get quite pricey!
11. Kids activities – make sure you check the event program for specific kids’ activities. You’ll often find colouring competitions, a kid’s costume parade, giant board games, computer games, Just Dance game, or superhero training
12. Big kid games & competitions – there are also games and competitions for big kids (and really big kids) to watch or participate in if you have the skill & inclination. This year’s #wintergeddon in Auckland will be featuring an esports gaming competition (with prize money on offer!) and a chilli-eating competition.
13. Artist’s alley – this is a fun way for your kids to see artists at work and learn about people who are drawing, crafting, and creating for a living. You will often find a cheap and unique souvenir in Artist’s Alley
14. Window shopping – an expo is somewhere to shop if money were unlimited! It truly is a toy lover's dream. So long as your kids understand that you won’t be buying a life-sized Alien model, it’s amazing to see just what’s on offer
15. Set a limit – a great way to stick to your budget and teach kids about money and prioritising is to allow them a small amount of money and they can choose how to spend it

Most of all – have a fun time!

(Image credit: Armageddon Expo)

This just in - #wintergeddon 2022 will have three life-size spaceships, including a full-size Star Wars pod racer, that guests can climb in to get a photo! You’ll also be able to play card games such as Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, Flesh and Blood, Magic the Gathering, and Digimon throughout the weekend. We can’t wait!

Need a costume to complete your con experience? Check out these fun costume ideas - perfect for groups and families!

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