The Chattanooga Marriot Downtown is physically connected to the Chattanooga Convention Center making it a convenient place to stay while attending JoeCon 2018. Unfortunately, rooms in this hotel were quickly sold out and “overflow fans” have been asked to book rooms in two other nearby establishments, both within easy walking distance. Have YOU booked your room yet? (Photo: Google Earth)
Mixed Emotions Expected As Club Members Gather Together for Final Time
Have you purchased your plane tickets yet? Packed your bags? Loaded your trusty SUV with “extra” Joes and toys to trade or sell? Reserved a hotel room? Preordered a convention exclusive set? The list of JoeCon 2018 preparatory questions goes on and on, and the time to “get ‘er done” is definitely growing short. Today (and tomorrow), JoeCon 2018 commences its “soft opening” by hosting a series of pre-convention tours, including trips to nearby battlefields, museums and other area attractions. These local tourist activities are always wonderful alternatives for those fans who have family members in tow—and who may NOT be fans of GIjOE. (What the..?)
This convention will be the LAST of the so-called “official” GIjOE shows, at least for the foreseeable future. And while “unofficial” GIjOE-centric events such as Toylanta will continue to be held, no longer will dues-paying members of the GIjOE Collector’s Club be able to gather together beneath the unifying banner of a Hasbro-endorsed GIjOE fan organization (feeling old, yet?). Emotions are sure to be running high and tears may be shed as goodbyes and thanks are shared between the club’s organizers and its thousands of members, some of whom have known each other and celebrated the “Spirit of Joe” together now for over two and a half DECADES.
Bottom Line: If you can attend—even for just ONE day—a trip to JoeCon 2018 should be well worth your time. The bulk of convention attendees are expected to arrive in Chattanooga by Friday evening, and JoeCon’s indoor-agenda begins in earnest soon thereafter. At that time, attendee packets are handed out to those who’ve preregistered, friends meet up and plan various event rendezvous, and dealers from across the country prep for the frenzied action to come. Go, JOE!