Dragon Con was a ton of fun, as always, but it was different in a few ways compared to the last few years, at least to me. For those who didn't get to go, here is what I noticed:

The staff was a bit more harried, which was very understandable considering how understaffed they were. But my experiences all around were smooth, other than a longer than usual wait in line on Thursday for badge pick up. Big ups to the staff, I thought they did an amazing job all things considered.

There were not nearly as many super elaborate cosplays. You know the ones, they set up in the Hyatt lobby, or the Marriott atrium and bask in the photos. There were a few, but on the whole there were less of them.

Loki was the costume of the year, that one that everyone dresses up in. Gators in all forms abounded.

The vendor hall wasn't quite as full of vendors (at about 95% or so), and a couple of my staples weren't there, but that was more than made up for by not being nuts to butts at all times. Actually being able to easily see the booths on both sides at the same time? Magic.

The artist alley was a lot more empty this year. It was the place I saw the starkest difference. The rows in the middle were massively cut down, and often largely empty. They did have some amazing newcomers though, and as usual it's where I spent the most of my money.

The crowds were noticably smaller. Which while it wasn't typical, it was nice to be able to have a decent line if sight when leaning up in the Marriott for people watching. This also made it a bit easier to get into some of the larger panels.

The least amount of difference was to be found in the panels. Other than a lower capacity they were just as excellent as always (writing/lit adjacent tracks were where I spent the most of my time).

My experiences with masks is that I would say in panels it was pretty much 100% wearing properly. On the street it dropped to about 80% among con folks, and maybe 50% among locals. Walking around, or waiting in line, it depends on how close booze was, but I'd say averaged about 90% wearing properly, and those who weren't invariably had a drink in hand.

I'm glad I made it! Now just to cross fingers and see if we get sick. Hope I get to see you all next year!