Tens of thousands of comic book lovers took the Phoenix Convention Center by storm Thursday for the start of Phoenix Comicon, now in its 15th year.
What started as a gathering of 450 people in 2002 has morphed into an annual event. Organizers expect between 80,000 to 85,000 people this year.
"Just being around other people who like the same things I do, in a more, other different kind of sense, this is what brings me here. I love it," said Tomaro Vasquez of Peoria, who went dressed in a clown costume.
Guests include William "Billy" Zabka, who played Johnny Lawrence in the original "The Karate Kid."
New this year is something called Con on Adams. A portion of Adams Street will be closed from Friday through Sunday, as Comicon attendees can enjoy live bands, food trucks and a beer garden.
Phoenix Comicon runs through Sunday. For more information, visit http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.
