[GGC ’25] Riot!

Intro: For a Pessimist, I’m Pretty Optimistic

I have to preface Geek Girl Con by mentioning that not only this is my first time attending Geek Girl Con, but a con of its kind. While I have seen attempts in the Los Angeles area to create something of the same femme inclusivity in geekdom, they often do not make it past the planning stage. While Geek Girl Con has been going strong for 15 years, they were also under the threat of shutting down. While my badge is comp’ed, I did help out a friend by getting them a full day badge. I want to see conventions celebrating marginalized communities succeed. 

My cosplay choices for Geek Girl Con included Eternal Sailor Mars to represent the awesomeness that is anime magical girls. On Sunday, I didn’t cosplay, but I went in Japanese street style (Ko-Gal, Co*de) in an outfit that celebrated all things girlhood – a mix of Sailor Moon and Utena accessories wrapped up in a Taylor Swift Lover cardigan.

My friends and I went into the Arch building into downtown Seattle. Clearer skies than Portland and a pumpkin spice latte in hand, I was ready to explore a brand new convention; one I never attended before! What I love about Geek Girl Con is that it leans into its theme. In 2025, they really leaned into a fantasy adventure theme. It reminded me of critically acclaimed Final Fantasy XIV. Maps were designed to look like role playing game, but they were still understandable. The program was called strategy guide. I also liked that the rooms were named after iconic femme fictional characters like America Ferrera, Uhuara, Storm, etc. (We need one representing anime – I nominate Lady Oscar!) 

 

GGC Programming: Crushcrushcrush

I do come in with the bias that I ran two panels at the event. I co-hosted the book cosplay panel and the magical girl anime panel. The former was scheduled at 10AM on Day 1. However, we had an amazing turnout and an engaged audience for the first early morning panel of the con. Sunday was still going on strong. I had a pretty good turnout for Sunday afternoon. I was not sure how the con would mesh with the otaku crowd given the lack of anime programming from the previous year. Somebody’s gotta do it. And I am that magical girl for the job! I was happy to see the room filled with millennial otaku femmes here for nostalgia and reminiscing.

I was also asked to moderate the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color) meet up. I’m so brand new to this concept of a meet up space for marginalized folks. Basically, it was a zone where people from marginalized communities could talk, chat, and mingle with each other. This is a safer space for communities to make new friends and find common geeky ground. Additionally, there was also an ASL and disabilities meet up in this space as well. 

I wanted to check out other programming, but my responsibilities had me busy! (good problem to have!) I heard good things about the chorale performance that covered songs from video games. There was a Sims panel that looked pretty neat and a few author related Q&A’s. 

There were two panels I did check out – submitting to publications and the American Girl panels. The former emphasized unspoken rules and best practices when it comes to submitting short stories. Though I write novels, this was still useful to attend and a few things to keep in mind when I query my YA novel in 2026. The American Girl panel was truly nostalgic. It went over the history, things that may seem problematic now, critiquing some decisions by Pleasant Company, and gushing over memories. 

 

Vendor Market: Misery Business 

The Arch section of the Washington Convention Center isn’t used as much at Sakura Con and Emerald City Comic Con. The marketplace took over the third floor – artists, authors, and vendors were mixed into this space. Soaps, books, keychains, teas, candles, and prints were all sold here. I ended up taking some book-ish and geeky candles home with me back to California. I found an author that I completed an ARC for, Stephanie K. Clemens. She had the special edition of a book that I enjoyed, Mundane Mornings and Enchanted Evenings. Even though I read it for review, I loved it so much that I had to get a physical copy. Always, always support writers. 

We also had a few conventions promoting their events and a few organizations. I saw our friends at Sakura Con and Kumori Con hanging out in the marketplace. I also became acquainted with Emerald City Romance Writers and signed up to be a part of their organization. I love that the writing community in the Pacific North West is strong and supportive. This is something that I don’t have back home.

What I love about the vendor space is that you can find a ton of unique items to either treat yourself or a friend. I don’t see many of these vendors and artists at even the PNW conventions I attend – definitely worth it to take a look around the marketplace!

Convention Vibes: That’s What You Get

Geek Girl Con had a lot of other things going for them. I glanced at the electronic gaming room. I saw a lot of indie developers demonstrate their PC titles. Of course, there was a zone for Just Dance. If I had more time, I would have liked to have tried out a demo, but I do appreciate the open e-gaming area was bustling throughout the weekend. 

What I love about Geek Girl Con is that it welcomes all ages. I was happy to see all generations represented at Geek Girl Con. My party was a mix of Gen X, Elder Millennial (it’s me, hi), and Gen Z. However, the DIY Science zone on the first floor was a STEM education focused area where kids can learn about insects and partake in science experiments. You could also sign up for a library card at GGC too! 

There was also a table top gaming room. My friends decided to have some rest and relaxation here on Sunday. Likewise, I would have joined, but my weekend got really busy. I do appreciate the variety of board games and card games available for attendees to check out.   

Final Thoughts: Born for This

Overall, Geek Girl Con 2025 was worth the trip up from Southern California to Washington state one more time this year. I really wanted to support and attend this convention. I feel that all states should have a Geek Girl Con of shorts that celebrates inclusivity and excellence among everyone. Not once I did feel creeped on, I always felt safe. I also appreciate the con having masks available if people needed them. 

I would definitely return next year. This is easily now one of my favorite conventions. Thank you so much, Geek Girl Con, for the opportunity to be a part of your community. I truly value what you bring to the geek community. 

And why yes, I did stop by Lovestruck in Seattle after the convention in my Eternal Sailor Mars cosplay. Rumor has is that the founder is an otaku! (I had to get a special edition of my favorite book from high school!)