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Thousands expected in Knoxville for Tennessee's largest collector's show

Are you a fan of hard to find collectibles, action figures or comics? Or are you a horror or sci-fi flick enthusiast? Or do you just like to dress up in costume and pretend like you're the world's greatest superhero? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you can't miss the 2008 AdventureCon convention, taking place June 13-15 at the Knoxville Convention Center.


AdventureCon is a highly anticipated show that features comic book artists, various movie and television celebrities, some of the most exquisite costumes in existence and several other attractions. More than 10,000 enthusiasts are expected in Knoxville over the three-day period, traveling from all over the United States and other countries such as Italy, England and Canada, among others.


Dozens of celebrity and comic guests are scheduled to make appearances at AdventureCon, and will participate in autograph sessions and discussion panels. Celebrities include Mitchel Musso, who plays Oliver on the hit Disney show "Hannah Montana," Kevin Sorbo, best known for his role as Hercules in the long running television series "Hercules" and Tony Moran, who played Michael Myers in the first two installments of John Carpenter's "Halloween," among others.


Additionally, Kane Hodder, who played Jason Voorhees in many of the "Friday the 13th" franchise movies, will appropriately celebrate his character's birthday on June 13 (Friday the 13th) at 7:30 pm. A birthday party will be held in Voorhees' honor, complete with a hockey-mask shaped cake and a costume contest.


Some of the most famous comic artists invited include Dev Madan, the creator of "Young Heros in Love," Mark Texeria, who will unveil "The Dark Knight" AdventureCon print, and Tom Nguyen, who will reveal his exclusive work of art "Jason vs. The World's Finest."


The event is open to the public and the hours are 12-7 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets may be purchased at the Knoxville Convention Center, however, those interested are encouraged to pre-order tickets online to avoid waiting in lines.


Tickets are $12 pre-ordered or $15 per person at the door on Friday and Sunday, and $15 pre-ordered or $20 per person at the door on Saturday. Three-day passes may be pre-ordered for $30 or $35 per person at the door. Children ages six and under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.


Officials with the Knoxville Tourism & Sports Corporation project that the 2008 AdventureCon convention will bring approximately $542,000 of economic impact to the Knoxville/Knox County area.


For more information, call the AdventureCon information center at 520-887-6400 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST Monday-Friday or contact Sarah Malak at the KTSC at (865) 523-7263 or smalak@knoxville.org or visit www.AdventureCon.com.