The Wizard World tour stopped at The Pennsylvania Convention Center from June 19th through June 21st. Although Wizard World is not purely a Star Wars event, there is always enough Star Wars pop culture and toys to be found that would satisfy any fan. Making special guests appearances this year were Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Ray Park (Darth Maul) and Tom Kane (Yoda from "The Clone Wars"). They were busy signing autographs and greeting fans and were very friendly and accomodating with photographs and other pleasantries. Ray Park had an extra long line, no doubt to his appearance as Snake Eyes in the upcoming GI Joe film.

While no new product was shown from any Star Wars license, the Previews booth did present some of their most recently distributed product. Many of the vendors/dealers had great prices on Gentle Giant products (maquettes as low as $30) and Sideshow Collectibles (armored figures for $45), but aside from a clearance wall or two of $5 Star Wars figures, none could be found for less than $10. Although it clearly is a buyer's market, this isn't true for the dealer's tables. In fact, I couldn't find a dealer to budge even a dollar on a single carded basic action figure.

Other guests included Erin Gray (Buck Rogers/Silver Spoons), Kristanna Loken (Terminator 3), Edward James Olmos (Battlestar Galactica), Lou Ferrigno (The Incredible Hulk), Georgr Kosana ("Sheriff" - Night Of The Living Dead), John Russo (Night Of The Living Dead), Tom Savini (From Dusk 'Til Dawn) and many others including comic book artists and writers, wrestling stars, and even a Deal Or No Deal model. Everyone was very friendly and it was great meeting some of the people we grew up watching on TV in person.

Overall, it was a great weekend. The collective spirit was definitely felt by all and it was fun for everyone that attended. Enjoy the gallery of photos and be sure to let us know next year if you are attending Philly Wizard World so we can be sure to say hello to you!

Special thanks and hello to my friend Wade from Wade's Comic Madness in Levittown, PA and all the great folks at Zapp! Comics in Freehold, NJ! It was great seeing you at the show!