By MJ Wilke

 

Phoenix Fan Fusion is the new name for the formerly named Phoenix Comicon and briefly named Phoenix Comic Fest. A new year and a new name, still the same large, pop-culture event that can be thought of as “urban camping.” Just like the in-the-woods type, urban camping requires a little prep work, a bit more stuff, but then you’re off to a great long weekend. Remember, it’s the desert in the summer (yes, technically it's not summer yet, but, when it’s 82 degrees at 2 am, call it summer). The average daytime temperature in Phoenix for this time of year is 100 degrees.

 

Whether you’re flying in from across the country or driving in from the area, here are some changes to take note of, items to bring and things to keep in mind while planning your weekend.

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Before You Go

Remember to pack: 

• Wristbands. This convention uses RFID wristbands instead of badges, and they were mailed. Double check you packed it. To expedite your initial entry, activate your wristband on-line beforehand.

• Sunscreen. With outdoor programs all weekend, security and registration lines being outside, you may need sunscreen. You can count on a huge markup price at hotel gift shops, so it’s a good idea to bring it with you.

• Water and/or water bottle. It’s hot, stay hydrated. Enough said.

• Cooler. Nice to have a cool drink after a long, hot day. Even a small collapsible cooler that fits in your suitcase will be useful in your hotel room. For more information, check out our Urban Camping Nerd Buys page.

• Extra clothes. With four days of programming, some past midnight, the days can be long, hot, and sweaty. An extra set of clothing each day can make you much more comfortable.

• Accessories. Pack your lightsabers, sonic screwdrivers, and wizarding wands. With programming and parties like the evening Saber walk and Hogwarts Prom you may find them useful.

 

Manage Your Tech:

• Activate your wristband online.

• Download the Phoenix Fan Fusion app

• Bring a backup power supply for your cell phone.

 

Keep in Mind

Parking.

The convention center is in the middle of downtown. Parking on Thursday and Friday will be tight with the regular work-week traffic included. Find pre-paid options here. This is your best bet for parking. The light rail transit system is also an option.

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Thursday Hours. Although the exhibit hall does not open until 3 pm on Thursday, there is a full day of programming scheduled starting at 10:00 am. Wristband pickup begins at 9 am for wristbands that were not mailed.

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Event Zone. All of the programming occurs at the Phoenix Convention Center and the surrounding outside area in an event zone.

 

Security Lines. Entry into the event zone will be through security areas with metal detectors and bag checks. Plan extra time to get through security every time you need to enter the event zone.

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Follow Us. Wayward Nerd will be tweeting all weekend, follow us on Twitter (@waywardnerd) to keep up with all the happenings.

 

For more about Phoenix Comicon and galleries of past years, check out our Comic-Con Travel page.

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