MegaCon has returned to Orange County, and local officials and vendors are eager for a positive economic impact from the event.

Step into the world of Tinkerlin Gaming! Ari Perez enthusiastically welcomed visitors to their stand at MegaCon-Orlando 2023, showcasing a unique array of console customization options.

Highlighting their distinctive products, Perez emphasized, "What makes us stand out is the skins that we have for our consoles." Based in Central Florida, Perez and his wife seamlessly blend their passion for gaming and anime in their shop.

Their focus lies in game console customization, with Perez showcasing Nintendo Switch cases, many crafted from silicone. As a small business owner, Perez expressed the significance of MegaCon in the growth of their enterprise. "We network with other vendors. That’s how we learn about other conventions that are doing well. We learn about what strategies they’re using to make their businesses more efficient," Perez explained.

Beyond the gaming and anime products, MegaCon is a haven for cosplay enthusiasts. Vendors like Hearts Delight present Renaissance and fantasy-themed outfits for those seeking a transformation into otherworldly characters.

MegaCon is more than just a convention; it's a celebration of individuality. Ansley Newland, the programming lead at MegaCon, emphasized, "The fans are so welcoming to someone who is brand new. Even if you might not have all the knowledge, you have a home here at MegaCon."

Orange County’s comptroller, Phil Diamond, described the convention as an economic boost for the local community. With MegaCon anticipating over 100,000 attendees over the weekend, Diamond stated, "It brings a lot of money into the community, and this is a big boom for all the people that have businesses near the convention center, big and small."

While it will take time to assess the full economic impact, organizers and attendees are focusing on enjoying the moment. "You can still connect with fellow fans, find new things to be fans of, and come home with some really cool art or merchandise," Newland concluded.