Villicon 2022: A Celebration of Villains, Cosplay, and Fandom!

Between heroes and horror is a darker side of fandom including maniacal laughs, evil plans, and the fabulous villains that make our favorite stories so compelling. Villicon Orlando provides a place to celebrate these dynamic characters and storylines, previously all-but-ignored by so many in the convention community. Last week, Orlando Decoded got to sit down with Villicon creators, Luis and Naomi, to discuss the event’s origins, mission, and all you can expect at this upcoming convention. Let’s take a look!

What is Villicon?

Villicon is a three-day convention offering interactive sessions, exclusive shows, and celebrity greetings. Celebrating villains, mischief, and mayhem; Villicon strives to provide an inclusive and constructive environment for local artists, cosplay enthusiasts, and other fans within the Orlando (and beyond) convention community. Through body positive attitudes, gender comprehensive representation and handpicked local vendors (chosen for their artistic talents and creativity not past convention experience), Villicon offers a welcoming and safe place for locals and tourists!

Occurring January 21-23, 2022; Villicon Orlando will be conveniently located at the DoubleTree by Hilton. Situated across the street from Universal Studios, this hotel offers a variety of dining options, proximity to local attractions, and comfortable amenities for guests.

What Can I Expect at Villicon Orlando?

Like most conventions, Villicon promises an exciting itinerary full of educational sessions, celebrity guests, unique activities, and incredible entertainment. Let’s explore all you can expect during your mayhem-filled weekend!

Interactive Sessions

In addition to villains and mischief, Villicon celebrates the artistry and passion of the cosplay community. Enjoy a variety of interactive sessions led by fabulous local icons like CosFay, WeyrWoman Cosplay, and more. Each session is designed to promote safe spaces for exploration and skill improvement, covering topics such as creating costumes on a budget, engaging social media followers, and makeup techniques. Find a current list of sessions and descriptions on the Villicon website.

Exclusive Shows

After learning from some of the most respected local cosplay names, enjoy a variety of live entertainment options (some performances will incur additional fees). If you’re still craving more costuming content, enjoy Cosplay Wars. In this show, two teams will battle to create the perfect costume in under one hour. It should be a fascinating demonstration of talent and creativity!

One of my longtime favorite local groups, The Rich Weirdoes (Orlando’s longest running Rocky Horror Picture Show shadow cast), will conduct a late night performance of this cult classic film! Expressions Movement Studios will host a body-type inclusive belly dancing show, and the Speakeasy Sirens will present classic burlesque performed by multiple genders!

Celebrity Guests

No matter your nerd style or fandom favorites, there is an exciting celebrity guest for you! From Star Trek‘s Garrett Wang and Denise Crosby to Rocky Horror Picture Show‘s Barry Bostwick, a variety of artists will be represented. Perhaps one of the most iconic actors to attend will be Erick Avari. Avari has played unforgettable roles in a wide range of films including The Mummy, Planet of the Apes, Stargate, and more!

If you’re more interested in screenwriting than acting, don’t miss the chance to meet Tab Murphy, who wrote several favorite Disney films including Tarzan, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Brother Bear!

Most celebrity guests will be available for photos or autographs, and maybe even a little Q & A! Keep an eye on Villicon’s website for the most updated information.

Tri Villain Tournament

Sponsored by Kissimmee’s Dare to Escape and inspired by Harry Potter’s Tri Wizard Tournament, the Tri Villain Tournament will test contestants’ ability to become expert evildoers. Over three days, tournament participants will be subjected to a variety of challenges to gauge their team building skills, cleverness, and creativity. Only one team will be crowned Ultimate Villain Masterminds! Learn more and register your group online!

Where is Villicon 2022?

Villicon 2022 will be held at the Double Tree Universal, right across the street from Universal Orlando.

Parking

While an exact rate has not yet been announced, event attendees are expected to receive reduced parking at the hotel.

Dining

There are several onsite dining options at the Double Tree including American Grill, Gelato Shop; and Pizza, Burgers & More. If you’re looking for something other than hotel food, you can find strips of chain and local restaurants just down the street.

How Can I Buy My Ticket to Villicon?

As part of their dedication to inclusivity, Villicon has an accessible ticketing structure geared towards creating incredible experiences for a wide variety of individuals. Take a look at some of these options below! (All listed prices are according to the current information posted on the Villicon website. Exact prices may change.)

Weekend Pass

For only $35, purchase a Weekend Pass! This ticket grants access to all three days of the convention PLUS the Friday night after party! Single day passes are also available.

You can even add the Saturday After Hours Party for $5!

Club 237

As the VIP ticket option, the Club 237 pass includes access to all three days of the convention, early entry to the celebrity rooms, a swag bag with exclusive shirt, priority seating at performances, and more! Club 237 tickets currently cost $75.

Gold Club 237

A limited opportunity, Gold Club 237 tickets offer guests everything in the standard Club 237 PLUS a two night stay at the Double Tree Universal! Keeping in mind that room block prices are currently $159/night, the $305 Gold Club tickets are an AMAZING VALUE!

Don’t Wait! Get Your Tickets to Villicon Today!

It’s not too early to start planning your villain-filled, cosplay-centric weekend! Take a closer look at all the available ticket options and book your trip today!