Set Your Phasers to Awesome: It's Emerald City Comicon

Most of the year, (aside from a few show-offs), caped crusaders are kept closeted. They work mild-mannered jobs, live mild-mannered lives. But for one glorious weekend in March, the gloves comes off, the masks go on, and costumed comic fans flock to downtown Seattle. Ah, Comicon.

Photo c/o Emerald City Comicon

Of course, it's not all superheros and spandex. Graphic novel enthusiasts, Star Wars devotees, and of course, Trekkies can all get down with the action. From today at 3 p.m. until Sunday at 5 p.m., lovers of all things comic can gather, trade, share, and try to get a sneak peak of any one of the 12 celeb "media guests". Notable appearances include William Shatner (!!), James Marsters, Felicia Day, and Brent Spiner.

Check out exhibitions by Dark Horse, DC Comics, Monster Commute and hometown hero Fantagraphics Books.

Pre-sale is long over, but tickets are still available at select locations around town. Pro-tip: call ahead to ensure that your selected spot is still holding. Or, if you're the procrastinating type, you can also get tickets at the door.

Keep your eyes peeled for Seattlest staffers - Sarah Lloyd, Chris Lynch, and myself running around snapping photos, interviewing, and Tweeting at warp-speed. For those of you playing along at home (or from your phone), we'll be using #ECCC - Tweet at us if you've got a tip.

9th Annual ECCC : March 4th - 6th // Friday 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. // Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.// Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. // Washington State Convention Center // $20-$45