EyeCon Genesis returns to Atlanta

Television stars from “Gilmore Girls,”  “90210” and “Gossip Girls” are coming to meet fans, sign autographs, and sit in panels where they answer questions about their work. EyeCon Genesis, a three-in-one convention experience, will take place March 17-19 in Atlanta at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel. 

In previous years, the convention was based on one show at a time. But due to the overwhelming number of fan requests to create a multi-genre event, this year’s convention will feature three shows. This new approach will afford fans the opportunity to meet several of their favorite cast members at the same event. 

“This year’s convention is the first of its kind, so I’m really hoping that it works out well and the fans really enjoy it,” said Autumn Dawn, EyeCon convention director. “I think fans will like it because now they get to meet headliners from each show instead of just one.” 

Scott Patterson, Yanic Truesdale, Keiko Agena, Matt Czuchry, Ed Westwick, Kelly Rutherford and Matt Lanter are included in the weekend lineup. More cast members will be announced closer to the event. Attendees can expect a jam-packed schedule that includes a bingo game, karaoke night, celebrity Q&A, a day full of photo ops, a banquet, panels, autograph sessions and a masquerade party. Other activities are said to be added to the schedule, such as an auction featuring artwork by celebrity guests. 

Dawn revealed that fans are going to receive a much different experience than what they may be used to. This convention focuses on several franchises as compared to just one panel or autograph signing at a bigger convention. A maximum number of 13,000 tickets will be sold in order to achieve a smaller and more intimate setting. The tickets will range from $50 to $695. 

“The banquet on Saturday night has always been a fan favorite because, depending on when they purchase their ticket, they get to eat and have dinner with their favorite stars,” said Dawn. 

This is EyeCons first return to Atlanta since the since “The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals” fan convention in 2014. Because of the frequency of the events, Atlanta is considered to be a home base for the convention. “We’ve done many conventions in Atlanta before, so it’s kind of like our second home,” said Dawn. “Since we haven’t been back for a while, we’re very excited for March. We love Atlanta!” 

EyeCon started hosting events in 2006 with promoter Kenny Smith. Since that time, the group has hosted 22 conventions in Los Angeles, Wilmington, Atlanta, Chicago and Orlando. With a staff of just five, EyeCon has plans for two conventions in 2017. For more information and to purchase tickets go to www.eyeconfla.com.