Wizard World Chicago opened last night with the first “Preview Night” in
the long-running show’s history. Some fans who paid as much as $150 per ticket
as part of Wizard’s VIP package were among the many who attended.

While it wasn’t the tumultuous throng of fans, exhibitors, and retailers
expected today based on the last few years of this convention, the early
arriving enthusiasts seemed excited to get in the hall early. They swarmed
around and through the DC Comics booth, which now prominently occupies the first
space in the hall.

Dark Horse Comics, Arcana, Moonstone Books, Aspen MLT, Marvel Comics and
other publishers were set up, though there wasn’t much activity at the Marvel
booth on Preview Night.

Some retailers reported brisk business, but artist alley was only partially
populated. A full contingent is expected today, though, and for the rest of the
weekend for the Con, which concludes Sunday, August 7. There are many industry
announcements expected at this show should start coming out at today’s panel
discussions.

Check Scoop next week for even more photos and news from the show,
but in the meantime, here are the images from the set-up and Preview
Night.

Special thanks to William Insignares of Demolition Comics for technically
assisting with this article.