New York Comic Con returns to the Javits Center this weekend for another multi-day celebration of pop culture in the Big Apple. While many people pack artist alley and the show floor, some individuals come to the convention to check out some great panels. We look at five panels worth catching at the convention, which runs from October 17 through October 20 at the Javits Center. Remaining badges for Thursday as well as digital badges can be purchased here.

Magic: The Gathering | Marvel Panel
Fri, Oct 18, 2024
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Room 409

A year after its initial announcement, Magic: The Gathering fans will get a closer look at the game's forthcoming collaboration with Marvel. Guests from both Marvel and Magic: The Gathering will be on hand to showcase what's to come from the multi-year deal, which will launch in 2025.

The Fantasy Tavern
Fri, Oct 18, 2024
5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Room 1C03

If you're into live entertainment with a geeky twist, The Fantasy Tavern will deliver songs based on the world of Dungeons and Dragons and more. Attendees can expect improvised tunes as well as pop culture parodies. More information about The Fantasy Tavern, including tickets for upcoming shows in NYC can be found here.

The NYCC Poetry Slam
Fri, Oct 18, 2024
8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Room 406.3

If you've waited years for a poetry slam at NYCC, your wish is coming true. Hosted by local poet Jive Poetic, the first-ever NYCC poetry slam will allow folks to show off their poetry skills for the grand prize of a $100 gift card to Barnes & Noble Union Square. Interested folks can sign up for the competition 15 minutes before the event starts.

Red Sonja: Consumed with Gail Simone
Sun, Oct 20, 2024
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Room 406.1

Beloved comic book character Red Sonja will make their long-awaited return to novels with Red Sonja: Consumed, which will be released on November 19. Red Sonja writer Gail Simone will sit down to discuss the first Red Sonja novel in 40 years with ELLE culture writer Lauren Puckett-Pope as the panel host.

"Saturday Night Live”: Louie Zakarian, Sarah Sherman and the Art of Special F/X Makeup

Sun, Oct 20, 2024
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Room 408

With Saturday Night Live celebrating its 50th anniversary, Emmy Award-winning make-up department head Louie Zakarian and cast member Sarah Sherman will join forces to discuss the importance of special FX makeup to the hit program. Outside of SNL, Zakarian has worked on the films Requiem For A Dream and Bohemian Rhapsody. Sherman is best known for their body horror comedy material under the moniker Sarah Squirm.