When I was first told about Arisia I did not have high hopes. I tend to go on the rule of ‘jack of all trades master of none’ when it comes to cons that try to cater to everything and everyone. However, that was proven wrong almost immediately upon my arrival. From the friendly nature of the staff to the high level of organization Arisia turned out to be the kind of multi-genre convention that other conventions should look to as the prime example of how to do it right.

The location is close to South Station and not too far from a silver line stop so it is easy enough to commute to, but the hotel is very nice and I hope that next year I can stay there instead of taking the commute each day. The convention center and hotel make a nice location for photos and finding the panel rooms and other major locations was very easy. I hope that Arisia will remain there for future events as it is one of the best areas I have gone to for a convention in the New England area.

There were numerous panel rooms all of which had a good size and could fit the audience with only the most popular panels featuring standing room only. The rooms were set in both the convention center and the hotel. Both buildings had them grouped together so if you found one room you could easily find all rooms in that building. There was plenty of different panel topics ranging from historical reenactment to comics to anime. There was something for everyone and there was always a panel running to help reduce the crowding when panels got out. As for my panels they had a good audience and while I was in many different panels I did have fun both as a moderator and panelist.

When taking a break from panels there were also plenty of other options such as the food table. Near the dealer hall was a table set up with basic snacks for attendees to help keep everyone going during the day. The dealer hall wasn’t all that big, but it did have a big variety of tables so it did not seem like you were looking at the same things over and over. Part of what made it stand out is that they had unique booths selling spice mixes, tea, chocolate, and anachronistic clothing. They also had an adult section that featured oils, toys, and candles. The adult section is not salacious it is very nice and the sales people are very helpful and friendly. In addition, there was a very nice art exhibit where patrons could pick up prints or paintings while taking a break from the usual convention offerings.

Overall, Arisia was not what I expected. It had plenty of good panel run by competent people, the parties were well managed, and the vibe was very relaxed. While the dealer hall is not as large as some might want it did have a good mix of goods, the art show is a nice way to take a break, and the offering of food helped make a long day at the convention much easier since you no longer had to worry about getting something to eat. Arisia was a great way to spend a cold weekend and I am looking forward to returning. I just need to make sure that next year I get a room because running panels, hitting event, and trying to socialize can be very tiring and being tired does not make for a fun trip home each night. It is a fun con that I highly recommend for anyone who enjoys nerd culture.

Before I wrap up I’d like to give thanks to those who made this event great for me. Thanks go to everyone I ran a panel with, the Arisia staff, the Scarlet Rhapsody team, everyone who street passed me, the cool Bronies, the Doctor Who chaps, Grace, the food team, and all the cool people I chatted with during the convention. As always if you have any comments or questions feel free to not connect me (Jared -at- Scarlet-Rhapsody.com) and until next time I leave you with my list. As I head out to my next event I humbly ask that you give my love to the cupcakes.

THE LIST
1. Happy New Year
2. So cold….
3. The Commute never ends
4. Plan, what plan?
5. Cupcakes!
6. Free bread
7. The spice must flow
8. They have popcorn
9. RE: 8 – As do I
10. Too many panels
11. Inspired to do some new kinds of panels
12. Note to self: Follow up with people
13. Going back to work? No!
14. Did I mention the cold?
15. Next cosplay: Trek, yes Star Trek
16. I’ll take another drink
17. How conventions should run
18. This year is going to be fun
19. Looking forward to the next Arisia
20. Nauticon you say?
21. I got to choose the theme
22. I want some of that old timey clothing
23. This is how you begin the year, rocking a good convention!

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