Nerd alert — beginning Thursday, Feb. 29, those traveling in or around downtown may notice quite a cast of characters flooding the streets. That's because the Emerald City Comic Con is back in town.

Fans of anything related to games, comics, or pop culture might want to check out the full weekend schedule. Several passes are already sold out, but you can still get tickets for Thursday, Friday, Sunday, and certain individual events.

Special guests

What Have We Here? Spotlight: Billy Dee Williams | Friday | 12:30 p.m. | Lando Calrissean himself shares anecdotes from his new memoir — betcha Chewie was a joy to work with.
Chris Evans | Friday + Saturday | Various times | Snapping pics with fans? He can do this all day.
"Twilight" Team Up | Saturday + Sunday | Various times | Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, and Jackson Rathbone gather for a Cullen family reunion.

Don't forget about the shopping — there's all sorts of merch, fan art, and neat goodies to take home with you. | Photo by SEAtoday Staff

Wonderful workshops

Foamsmithing Learn to Armor Yourself | Thursday | 12:45-2:45 p.m. | Hone skills that will seriously upgrade your cosplay game.
Kung Fu for Kids | Every day | 2-3 p.m. | Have the little ones get some energy out while learning basic moves in a safe, fun environment.
Mystery Board Game Design Challenge | Friday + Saturday | Various times | You have one hour to create a game from a box of random items before a panel of judges rates your work.

Other excitement-inducing features

Rebecca Yarros Book Signing | Thursday | 2:15-4:15 p.m. | The best-selling author of "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" makes an appearance.
The Tavern | Every day | Times vary | ECCC's newest addition is a collection of fantasy-themed lounges — with names like the Kraken's Keep — where you can grab a drink or a bite while getting your hit points refreshed for even more activities.