DESIGN /
FEATURES
September 19, 2024
Let's Go to "DesignerCon 2024" in Las Vegas! Answering All Your Burning Questions | MEDICOM TOY
MEDICOM TOY
Must-Read for Anyone Considering Attending "DesignerCon 2024"!
"DesignerCon 2024" will be held in Las Vegas for three days from Friday, November 15th to Sunday, November 17th, 2024. We asked Don Kratzer, who serves as the liaison for Asia, for helpful information for attendees, such as how to get there from Japan, general cost estimates, and what the venue is like!
Text by SHINNO Kunihiko | Edit by TOMIYAMA Eizaburo
What Kind of Event is DesignerCon?
DesignerCon is one of the world's largest art and design conventions, held annually, bringing together collectible toys, custom figures, plush toys, apparel, and more under one roof!
It began with the desire of Ben Goretsky, owner of the specialty art toy shop "3DRetro," who wanted to create a convention that would gather art toy collectors and also support shop owners.
The first convention was held in 2006 in a small 1,100-square-foot meeting room at a convention center in Pasadena, California. Since then, its scale has expanded year by year, and in 2018, it moved to Anaheim, California. The venue grew to over 300,000 square feet, and it has evolved into a convention with over 700 companies and more than 550 artists participating over three days.
MEDICOM TOY has participated as an official partner since 2018. BE@RBRICK is incredibly popular in the US, and the giant booth at the center of the venue is always bustling with people.
Scenes from DesignerCon 2023
"DesignerCon 2024," which moves its venue to Las Vegas, Nevada this year, will be held for three days from Friday, November 15th to Sunday, November 17th, 2024, local time.
With only two months left until the event, there's still time! So, we asked Don Kratzer, who serves as the liaison for DesignerCon's Asian operations, about the reasons for the move, tickets, hotels, and other burning questions.
With only two months left until the event, there's still time! So, we asked Don Kratzer, who serves as the liaison for DesignerCon's Asian operations, about the reasons for the move, tickets, hotels, and other burning questions.
Don Kratzer
DesignerCon Asia Liaison
Resides in Japan. A sofubi collector who loves Japanese tokusatsu heroes from the early 1970s. He also produces independent sofubi under the name FIG-LAB. He has been exhibiting at DesignerCon since 2016.
He has known DEVILROBOTS, famous for "Tofu Oyako," for over 20 years. He has helped Japanese artists such as Terasha of "Inuharigon" and Kahori Hinata of "MORRIS" exhibit at DesignerCon, which led to the expansion of his own booth, "Global Figure Showcase." Later, as Ben, the organizer of DesignerCon, showed great interest in Japanese and Asian artists, Kratzer was appointed as the liaison for the Asian region, taking on the role of assisting artists from various Asian countries with their exhibitions.
DesignerCon Asia Liaison
Resides in Japan. A sofubi collector who loves Japanese tokusatsu heroes from the early 1970s. He also produces independent sofubi under the name FIG-LAB. He has been exhibiting at DesignerCon since 2016.
He has known DEVILROBOTS, famous for "Tofu Oyako," for over 20 years. He has helped Japanese artists such as Terasha of "Inuharigon" and Kahori Hinata of "MORRIS" exhibit at DesignerCon, which led to the expansion of his own booth, "Global Figure Showcase." Later, as Ben, the organizer of DesignerCon, showed great interest in Japanese and Asian artists, Kratzer was appointed as the liaison for the Asian region, taking on the role of assisting artists from various Asian countries with their exhibitions.
What's the Budget? How Do I Get There? VIP Tickets Recommended for Purchases!
Q. Why did the venue move from Anaheim to Las Vegas?
A. Because the business infrastructure is well-established and it's close to California.
The Anaheim venue was close to Disneyland, making it difficult to find hotels. Also, coordinating the venue schedule to hold the event at the same time each year was challenging. In contrast, Las Vegas offers smoother coordination, is a short flight from California, and hotels are cheaper than in Anaheim. Due to this favorable business environment, many events have recently relocated to Las Vegas, and "DesignerCon" is following this trend.
A. Because the business infrastructure is well-established and it's close to California.
The Anaheim venue was close to Disneyland, making it difficult to find hotels. Also, coordinating the venue schedule to hold the event at the same time each year was challenging. In contrast, Las Vegas offers smoother coordination, is a short flight from California, and hotels are cheaper than in Anaheim. Due to this favorable business environment, many events have recently relocated to Las Vegas, and "DesignerCon" is following this trend.
Another significant factor is state tax. California has very high taxes, but Nevada, having profited from casinos, has zero corporate and income taxes. Incidentally, Ben's shop has also moved from California to Las Vegas.
Q. How should I travel from Japan?
A. There are no direct flights, so a layover in Los Angeles is recommended.
November, when the event is held, is a relatively inexpensive time for airfare. However, there are no direct flights from Japan to Las Vegas. For those unfamiliar with international travel, transferring within the US might seem a bit daunting.
A layover in Los Angeles is recommended. There are many flights, and the flight to Las Vegas takes less than an hour. Alternatively, you could fly via San Francisco or South Korea.
By the way, the airport in Las Vegas is called Harry Reid International Airport. It was previously known as McCarran International Airport until 2021.
A. There are no direct flights, so a layover in Los Angeles is recommended.
November, when the event is held, is a relatively inexpensive time for airfare. However, there are no direct flights from Japan to Las Vegas. For those unfamiliar with international travel, transferring within the US might seem a bit daunting.
A layover in Los Angeles is recommended. There are many flights, and the flight to Las Vegas takes less than an hour. Alternatively, you could fly via San Francisco or South Korea.
By the way, the airport in Las Vegas is called Harry Reid International Airport. It was previously known as McCarran International Airport until 2021.
Q. Are hotel prices high in Las Vegas?
A. Even official hotels are available from $89 per night.
DesignerCon has partnered with "Plaza Hotel and Casino" and "Circa Resort & Casino" as official hotels. "Plaza Hotel and Casino" is available from $89 per night, so you don't need to worry. First, please check the reservation status of each hotel from the official website's information.Official Site InformationLas Vegas has many hotels, so it's fun to plan your trip according to your budget.
It's fun to plan your trip according to your budget, as there are many hotels in Las Vegas.
A. Even official hotels are available from $89 per night.
DesignerCon has partnered with "Plaza Hotel and Casino" and "Circa Resort & Casino" as official hotels. "Plaza Hotel and Casino" is available from $89 per night, so you don't need to worry. First, please check the reservation status of each hotel from the official website's information.Official Site InformationLas Vegas has many hotels, so it's fun to plan your trip according to your budget.
It's fun to plan your trip according to your budget, as there are many hotels in Las Vegas.
Q. What kind of budget is sufficient?
A. Around 350,000 yen for flights and accommodation, plus food expenses.
As a rough estimate, if you plan to attend DesignerCon for three days, 350,000 yen should be sufficient for flights and accommodation.
For meals, there will be many food trucks in front of the venue. American food trucks offer many unique fusion dishes, such as Korean tacos, which are rare in Japan. There's also a Chinatown a short distance from the venue, and many famous ethnic restaurants. You'll find everything from high-end dining to affordable options. All-you-can-eat restaurants are generally under $30.
It also depends on how many items you plan to buy at the venue.
A. Around 350,000 yen for flights and accommodation, plus food expenses.
As a rough estimate, if you plan to attend DesignerCon for three days, 350,000 yen should be sufficient for flights and accommodation.
For meals, there will be many food trucks in front of the venue. American food trucks offer many unique fusion dishes, such as Korean tacos, which are rare in Japan. There's also a Chinatown a short distance from the venue, and many famous ethnic restaurants. You'll find everything from high-end dining to affordable options. All-you-can-eat restaurants are generally under $30.
It also depends on how many items you plan to buy at the venue.
Q. What should I wear?
A. It's hot in Las Vegas even in November, but a light jacket is also useful.
Even in November, Las Vegas has very low humidity and is hot year-round. Don't forget sun protection. The venue is air-conditioned, so it might be a good idea to bring a light jacket.
A. It's hot in Las Vegas even in November, but a light jacket is also useful.
Even in November, Las Vegas has very low humidity and is hot year-round. Don't forget sun protection. The venue is air-conditioned, so it might be a good idea to bring a light jacket.
Q. Which admission ticket should I buy?
A. The "VIP 3-Day Pass" with attendee benefits is highly recommended.
Tickets are currently on sale on the official website.Official SiteFor the Friday-Sunday event, the "VIP 3-Day Pass" is $99, the "Weekend 2-Day Pass" is $40, and the "1-Day Pass" is $25.
When purchasing, the "VIP 3-Day Pass" is highly recommended. This is because Friday evening (5pm-9pm) is VIP Night, exclusively for VIP pass holders, and on Saturday, VIPs can enter one hour early (from 9am).
While each creator decides what and when to sell, for example, the Japanese street brand PUNK DRUNKERS always sells limited edition T-shirts and figures specifically for VIP Night. Additionally, attendees with a "VIP 3-Day Pass" receive special benefits. Last year, a BE@RBRICK of "Vincent," the DesignerCon mascot designed by Scott Tolleson, was given away.
A. The "VIP 3-Day Pass" with attendee benefits is highly recommended.
Tickets are currently on sale on the official website.Official SiteFor the Friday-Sunday event, the "VIP 3-Day Pass" is $99, the "Weekend 2-Day Pass" is $40, and the "1-Day Pass" is $25.
When purchasing, the "VIP 3-Day Pass" is highly recommended. This is because Friday evening (5pm-9pm) is VIP Night, exclusively for VIP pass holders, and on Saturday, VIPs can enter one hour early (from 9am).
While each creator decides what and when to sell, for example, the Japanese street brand PUNK DRUNKERS always sells limited edition T-shirts and figures specifically for VIP Night. Additionally, attendees with a "VIP 3-Day Pass" receive special benefits. Last year, a BE@RBRICK of "Vincent," the DesignerCon mascot designed by Scott Tolleson, was given away.
Q. Can I use QR codes for payment?
A. It's best to pay with cash or credit card.
Smartphone payment methods like those in Japan are not widespread in the US, so it's credit card or cash. Some vendors only accept cash, so you might need it. ATMs are also available within the venue. If you're concerned about fees, bringing a debit card might be a good idea.
A. It's best to pay with cash or credit card.
Smartphone payment methods like those in Japan are not widespread in the US, so it's credit card or cash. Some vendors only accept cash, so you might need it. ATMs are also available within the venue. If you're concerned about fees, bringing a debit card might be a good idea.
Q. How large is the venue?
A. It's about the size of one hall at Makuhari Messe.
It's about the size of one hall at Makuhari Messe, so it's quite large. Each booth is 3m x 3m. The MEDICOM TOY area in the center of the venue is always very popular and draws long lines. This is because BE@RBRICKs curated by artists from "DesignerCon" are released annually, and autograph sessions are held by the artists themselves. The lineup is always surprising, so everyone looks forward to who will appear. In the past, Tristan Eaton, who designed Dunny (a rabbit-like character created by Kidrobot), was there.
A. It's about the size of one hall at Makuhari Messe.
It's about the size of one hall at Makuhari Messe, so it's quite large. Each booth is 3m x 3m. The MEDICOM TOY area in the center of the venue is always very popular and draws long lines. This is because BE@RBRICKs curated by artists from "DesignerCon" are released annually, and autograph sessions are held by the artists themselves. The lineup is always surprising, so everyone looks forward to who will appear. In the past, Tristan Eaton, who designed Dunny (a rabbit-like character created by Kidrobot), was there.
Q. What is the theme for this year's DesignerCon?
A. It's "Las Vegas"!
Since it's the first time holding it here, I expect many artists will prepare items related to Las Vegas, such as T-shirts and prints. Also, pins are incredibly popular in the US right now, especially colorful enamel pins. Artists tend to offer a wide range of products, from one-of-a-kind figures to more affordable items like pins.
A. It's "Las Vegas"!
Since it's the first time holding it here, I expect many artists will prepare items related to Las Vegas, such as T-shirts and prints. Also, pins are incredibly popular in the US right now, especially colorful enamel pins. Artists tend to offer a wide range of products, from one-of-a-kind figures to more affordable items like pins.
Q. Are there any participating artists you're particularly looking forward to?
A. The art duo THE LONDON POLICE.
I've recently become a fan of THE LONDON POLICE, an art duo based in Amsterdam. They started as graffiti artists and began participating in DesignerCon two years ago. This year, they plan to have a significantly larger booth.
Also, the sofubi area is continuously expanding. From Japan, we have PUNK DRUNKERS, Kahori Hinata, Terasha, BLACKPEARLS, CREATURE BAZAAR, Sangatsu Honpo, and TOUMA's team. And Kiriko Arai. She participated with TOUMA's team last year, but this year she will have her own booth. She was very popular at Design Festa this year, so I hope she'll be a big hit in the US too.
A. The art duo THE LONDON POLICE.
I've recently become a fan of THE LONDON POLICE, an art duo based in Amsterdam. They started as graffiti artists and began participating in DesignerCon two years ago. This year, they plan to have a significantly larger booth.
Also, the sofubi area is continuously expanding. From Japan, we have PUNK DRUNKERS, Kahori Hinata, Terasha, BLACKPEARLS, CREATURE BAZAAR, Sangatsu Honpo, and TOUMA's team. And Kiriko Arai. She participated with TOUMA's team last year, but this year she will have her own booth. She was very popular at Design Festa this year, so I hope she'll be a big hit in the US too.
Q. Which countries, besides Japan, are showing a lot of excitement?
A. Taiwan is really hot right now!
Taiwan is particularly vibrant at the moment. Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and of course, Thailand are also very active. Next year, Jakarta will also participate in the event. There are many creators there too.
A. Taiwan is really hot right now!
Taiwan is particularly vibrant at the moment. Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and of course, Thailand are also very active. Next year, Jakarta will also participate in the event. There are many creators there too.
Q. On the day of the event, where can I find you?
A. I'll be in the area called "Global Figure Pavilion."
I'll be in the area called "Global Figure Pavilion." Asian artists will exhibit around the main booth, "Global Figure Showcase." Mushroom Toys from Taiwan, who participated last year, and AMAZ, a shop from Hong Kong, will be participating for the first time, along with some artists who have not yet been announced.
A. I'll be in the area called "Global Figure Pavilion."
I'll be in the area called "Global Figure Pavilion." Asian artists will exhibit around the main booth, "Global Figure Showcase." Mushroom Toys from Taiwan, who participated last year, and AMAZ, a shop from Hong Kong, will be participating for the first time, along with some artists who have not yet been announced.
Q. If I have questions, can I ask you?
A. Please email me with any advance questions! If I'm not too busy, I can answer questions at the venue too.
Of course! If I'm not too busy, I'll be happy to help. Also, if you have any questions in advance, please contact me at my email address (don@designercon.com). Since I'll also be at the Las Vegas venue for the first time, your questions will be helpful for future FAQs.
A. Please email me with any advance questions! If I'm not too busy, I can answer questions at the venue too.
Of course! If I'm not too busy, I'll be happy to help. Also, if you have any questions in advance, please contact me at my email address (don@designercon.com). Since I'll also be at the Las Vegas venue for the first time, your questions will be helpful for future FAQs.
Q. Is the main visual from The Expo at World Market Center, the venue?
A. Yes. The illustration is by RAGNAR.
This illustration was done by an American artist named RAGNAR (Brandon Ragnar Johnson). In front of the venue, there are characters drawn by various artists, with VINCENT, the DesignerCon mascot, in the center. Frank Kozik's Smorkin' Labbit, who passed away last year, is also featured. Creators from all over the world are waiting, so please feel free to come and visit!
A. Yes. The illustration is by RAGNAR.
This illustration was done by an American artist named RAGNAR (Brandon Ragnar Johnson). In front of the venue, there are characters drawn by various artists, with VINCENT, the DesignerCon mascot, in the center. Frank Kozik's Smorkin' Labbit, who passed away last year, is also featured. Creators from all over the world are waiting, so please feel free to come and visit!
DesignerCon 2024
Venue | The Expo at World Market Center
Location | 435 S Grand Central Pkwy Las Vegas, NV 89106
Dates | Friday, November 15th, Saturday, November 16th, Sunday, November 17th, 2024 *November 15th is exclusive to VIP ticket holders.
Hours | November 15th (Fri) 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | November 16th (Sat) 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM *VIP ticket holders enter from 9:00 AM | November 17th (Sun) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tickets |Onlinecurrently on sale.
*Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.
Please check the details of the event from the page below.
http://www.designercon.com/
Venue | The Expo at World Market Center
Location | 435 S Grand Central Pkwy Las Vegas, NV 89106
Dates | Friday, November 15th, Saturday, November 16th, Sunday, November 17th, 2024 *November 15th is exclusive to VIP ticket holders.
Hours | November 15th (Fri) 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | November 16th (Sat) 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM *VIP ticket holders enter from 9:00 AM | November 17th (Sun) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tickets |Onlinecurrently on sale.
*Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.
Please check the details of the event from the page below.
http://www.designercon.com/
Inquiries
MEDICOM TOY User Support
Tel. 03-3460-7555