JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)—East Tennessee State University welcomed cosplayers and gamers to its first day of ETSU-Con.

This year’s convention included gaming tournaments, a cosplay competition and opportunities to meet popular voice actors.

Maximo Mamo, event organizer, said the pop-culture community is vibrant and looks forward to the convention every year.

“It’s hard to describe with words that people can just be themselves, express themselves freely,” Mamo said. “When popular culture is sometimes frowned upon in regular, normal society, people can come here for just a weekend and get away from it, dressed as their favorite characters, play their favorite games, talk about their favorite stuff, buy merchandise, and support local artists as well.

It’s really something just so special. It’s hard to describe, but it’s a way for people to connect with each other on things that they’re really passionate about. There’s a lot of pop culture out there, so it is hard to meet people who have your particular niche, but you can be here and be like, ‘hey, I like your cosplay.'”

ETSU-Con continues Sunday. ETSU students will have free access to the convention; just bring your student identification to register. For more information about registration or ticket prices, please visit etsu.edu/students/etsu-comic.