MegaCon is an annual institution in Central Florida, and a favorite with sci-fi fans. It regularly brings a significant roster of stars from tv, movies and anime/comics to Orlando, along with collectors and dealers.

Among the celebrities scheduled to appear at this year's event are John Schneider (recently departed from "Smallville"), Marina Sirtis ("Star Trek: The Next Generation"), Tracy Scoggins ("Babylon 5"), Julie Benz ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer"/"Angel"), Clare Kramer ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer"), Steve Bacic ("Andromeda"/"X-Files"/"Stargate SG-1"), Tony Amendola ("Angel"/"Stargate SG-1"), Mark Lutz ("Angel"/"Mutant X") and Jason Carter ("Babylon 5"/"Angel").

The convention is also offering appearances by many comic book artists, including George Perez (JLA Avengers, Wonderwoman), Tommy Castillo (Batman, Evil Ernie), Mark Brooks (New X-Men), Mike Perkins (Captain America, Spellbinder), Brandon Peterson (Ultimate X-Men) and Brian Pulido (Lady Death).

For fans of Joss Whedon's works ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer"/"Angel"/"Firefly"), there will be a separate programming track featuring episode screenings, gaming, actor panels and more. I think I'm most looking forward to the screening of the "Buffy" musical episode, "Once More With Feeling," that will encourage an audience singalong, and the Joss Whedon costume contest featuring costumes from his productions.

This year's event is being held at the Orlando Convention Center from Feb 24-26. A single day pass is $20.24 (w/tax) in advance or $45.80 (w/tax) for a three-day weekend pass. Prices will rise slightly if you wait to purchase the tickets at the event.

MegaCon organizers are also sponsoring a special event -- "MegaCon's MegaNight" -- on Feb 23 at Universal's Islands of Adventure. From 6pm-11pm, guests can ride the rides with some of the event's celebrity guests, and from 9pm-11pm will enjoy exclusive access to the Marvel Super Hero Island. Tickets are $29.95 (plus tax) in advance or $5 more day of, and this is in addition to any other passes you may purchase for MegaCon itself.

To purchase advance tickets, or for more information on MegaCon, including information on hotels for those traveling to Orlando for the event, please visit the show's website at www.megaconvention.com.

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