Comicon

Comicon is not a single creator but the collective term for the fan conventions that have shaped comic book culture since the mid-20th century. The first official event, New York Comicon, was held in 1964, organized by local enthusiasts like Jerry Bails—later called the "Father of Comic Fandom"—and Dave Kaler of the Academy of Comic-Book Fans and Collectors. Early gatherings were small, often held in church basements or union halls, and were run on a not-for-profit basis by fans. The Detroit Triple Fan Fair (1965–1978) and Academy Con (1965–1967) were among the first recurring shows. Over time, these single-day affairs expanded into multi-day events filling major convention centers. Today, most comic conventions are commercial ventures, with publishers, distributors, and retailers using them to promote releases. They feature panels, cosplay, and award ceremonies like the Eisner Awards (presented at San Diego Comic-Con since 1988) and the Harvey Awards. Creators often sign autographs, sometimes for a fee. While the term now covers a global industry, the spirit of these gatherings remains rooted in fan enthusiasm and community.