Tag: events

Days of the Vaqueros in Old Town San Diego!

Two vaqueros chat during an event in Old Town San Diego that reenacts aspects of Californio history.
Two vaqueros chat during an event in Old Town San Diego that reenacts fascinating Californio history.

I enjoyed the Trades That Shaped the West event in Old Town San Diego last Saturday so much, I decided to return today to experience another Stagecoach Days event: Days of the Vaqueros!

Days of the Vaqueros invited curious visitors to experience what life was like when San Diego was a part of Spain, then Mexico. The emphasis was on the vaqueros–the first true cowboys. During the era of the Californios, wealthy ranch owners employed vaqueros to manage their stock.

For a couple of decades–from the early 1820s to the mid-1840s–cattle hides were the primary export of Alta California. Merchant ships from the East Coast (and other places about the Pacific Ocean) would trade the plentiful hides for finished goods that were in high demand in early, geographically isolated, sparsely populated towns like San Diego.

Someone reads Days of the Vaqueros sign on the Robinson Rose House in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Someone checks out Days of the Vaqueros activities. The banner hangs on the Robinson Rose House in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Taking place during Old Town's summer Stagecoach Days, today's event celebrated life in San Diego when the small town and surrounding area was part of Mexico.
Taking place during Old Town’s summer weekend Stagecoach Days, today’s event primarily celebrated life in San Diego when the small town and Alta California were part of Mexico.
Ladies in period dresses at the Days of the Vaqueros event in Old Town San Diego.
Ladies pass by in period dresses. One of many cool sights at the Days of the Vaqueros event in Old Town San Diego.
Tables contained information about life during the era of huge Mexican land grant cattle ranches worked by vaqueros. Vaqueros, the first cowboys, were mostly indigenous people employed to manage cattle by the wealthy land owners.
Tables contained information about life during the era of huge Mexican land grant ranches worked by vaqueros. Vaqueros, the first true cowboys, were mostly indigenous people employed to manage cattle by the wealthy land owners.
A vaquero shows a visitor to Old Town how to properly handle a rope.
A vaquero shows a visitor to Old Town how to properly handle a rope.
The visitor successfully lassoes his cow--the rear end, that is--first try!
The visitor successfully lassoes his cow–the rear end, that is–first try!
A gentleman who used to work for Buck Knives makes unique knife handles with elk antlers. He has developed his own technique, which takes great skill and precision.
A gentleman who used to work for Buck Knives makes unique knife handles out of elk antlers. He has developed his own technique, which takes great skill and precision.
A hat maker shows how beaver felt material was steamed then pushed over a hat-form block.
A hat maker shows how beaver felt material was steamed then pushed over a hat-form block.
What's cooking on the campfire? Some tasty pozole, I was told!
What’s cooking on the campfire? Some tasty pozole, I was told!
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup or stew, made from hominy, meat and various vegetable seasonings.
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup or stew, made from hominy, meat and various vegetable seasonings.
Preparing eggs for the cascarón. Near the end of a fiesta Californios flirted by cracking eggs filled with scented water or confetti over the startled head of someone they liked.
Decorating eggshell cascarones. Near the end of a fiesta, Californios flirted by cracking eggs filled with scented water or confetti over the startled head of someone they liked.
A group called Los Californios played authentic early California music--tunes that were preserved over a century ago on wax cylinder sound recordings made by Charles Lummis.
A group called Los Californios played authentic early California music–tunes that were preserved over a century ago on wax cylinder sound recordings made by Charles Lummis.
A couple dances to the happy, gentle music.
A couple dances to the happy, gentle music.
Publications by a project called San Diego Friends of Old Time Music. Author Vykki Mende Gray is helping to preserve the musical history of California.
Publications by a nonprofit project called San Diego Friends of Old Time Music. Author Vykki Mende Gray is helping to preserve the musical history of California.
A display of braided ropes and cut rawhide, once commonly used by vaqueros as they worked on the large cattle ranches around San Diego.
A display of braided ropes and rawhide, once commonly used by vaqueros as they worked on the large cattle ranches around San Diego.
On this table I see more ropes, a canteen, iron brands and boot spurs.
On this table I see more ropes, a canteen, iron brands and boot spurs.
A gentleman who teaches students visiting Old Town about history holds up an illustration of bear-baiting, which early Californians found entertaining.
A gentleman who teaches school students visiting Old Town about history holds up an illustration of bear-baiting, which early Californians found entertaining.
These guys were making adobe bricks. I learned earth and water are mixed, and straw or manure are often added for strength and cohesion.
These guys were making adobe bricks. I learned earth and water are mixed, and straw or manure are often added for strength and cohesion.
These authentic adobe bricks take weeks or months to properly dry. When hard, they'll possibly be used in new construction or restored exhibits at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Authentic adobe bricks take weeks or months to properly dry. When hard, these bricks will possibly be used in new construction or to restore existing exhibits inside Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Traditional dancing in the courtyard of Casa de Estudillo of Los Camotes (which translates the sweet potatoes), a tune from Mexican and Spanish California.
Traditional dancing in the courtyard of Casa de Estudillo of Los Camotes (which translates the sweet potatoes), a tune from old Mexican and Spanish California.

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Trades That Shaped the West demonstrated in Old Town!

A Wells Fargo stagecoach takes a turn around La Plaza de Las Armas in San Diego's historic Old Town.
A Wells Fargo stagecoach takes a turn around La Plaza de Las Armas in San Diego’s historic Old Town.

Here come photos from today’s Trades That Shaped the West event, which took place in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

A wide variety of demonstrations drew curious visitors to a cluster of tents in the park’s grassy plaza. Early San Diego in the 1800’s was completely different from our modern city of gleaming skyscrapers. In many ways, life back then was both simpler and more difficult. Many household objects that are manufactured today were crafted using raw muscle and sweat. Most ordinary tasks were neither easy nor automated.

One hopes that historical reenactments like this continue for generations, so that people don’t forget the unique and meaningful lives of our ancestors.

You might notice this isn’t the first time I’ve blogged about this annual event. I’m so fascinated by San Diego’s history, I decided to experience Trades That Shaped the West again!

Stagecoach Days is celebrated every Saturday in Old Town during the summer. There’s a different themed event every week!

Aspects of frontier life were reenacted today in Old Town San Diego. Visitors watch in amazement as a stagecoach passes by!
Aspects of frontier life were reenacted today in Old Town San Diego. Visitors watch as a stagecoach passes by!
History comes to life during Stagecoach Days in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. There's a different theme each Saturday in July and August.
History comes to life during Stagecoach Days in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. There’s a different theme each Saturday in July and August.
Many fascinating demonstrations could be viewed by the public at the Trades That Shaped the West event.
Many fascinating demonstrations could be viewed by the public at the Trades That Shaped the West event today.
Young and old alike watched two blacksmiths at work with an anvil and small portable forge.
Young and old alike watched two blacksmiths at work with an anvil and small forge.
A wheelwright explains his craft. Wagon wheels were difficult to create, but a necessity of life in the 1800's.
A wheelwright explains his craft. To make wagon wheels required great skill. Like cars today, wagons were an important part of life in the 1800’s.
The bent metal band tyre would be expanded with heat, then contracted using cold water once carefully placed around the wooden wheel.
The bent metal band tyre would be expanded with heat, then contracted using cold water once carefully placed around the wooden wheel.
We take laundry machines for granted today. In the Old West, cleaning clothes took a whole lot more work.
We take laundry machines for granted today. Years ago in the Old West, cleaning clothes required a whole lot more work!
Irons, washboards and other objects from daily life generations ago are on display.
Irons, washboards and other objects from daily life generations ago were on display.
These ladies were weaving baskets. Basket-weaving is said to be the oldest of all human crafts.
These ladies were weaving baskets. Basket-weaving is said to be the oldest of all human crafts.
The local Kumeyaay would use willow baskets to protect their gathered acorns and other food from insects.
The local Native American Kumeyaay would use willow baskets to protect their gathered acorns and other food from insects.
This portable green forge is being used for the first time. The handle turns a belt which operates an air blower. I recognized this blacksmith from the Fall Back Festival in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
This portable green forge is being used for the first time. The handle turns a belt which operates an air blower. I recognized this blacksmith from the Fall Back Festival in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter.
Local blacksmith hobbyists made all the items you see here, including the ornamental snake (which takes about an hour and a half to make) and the huge padlock!
Local blacksmith hobbyists created all the items you see here, including the ornamental snake (which took about an hour and a half to make) and the huge padlock!
This crafty gambler tried to entice me into playing a game of chance. Nice try!
This crafty gambler tried to entice me into playing a game of chance. Nice try!
A gentleman had a table containing old tintype photographs. He also had antique cameras on display that produce daguerreotype photographs.
A gentleman had a table containing old tintype photographs. He also had antique cameras on display that were used for daguerreotype photographs.
A new wheel is being produced by several wainwrights, trades people who make and repair wagons and carts.
A new wheel is being produced by several wainwrights, trades people who craft and repair wagons and carts. These guys belong to the California Historical Artillery Society.
A variety of useful tools and devices. Many look familiar today.
A variety of useful tools on their table. Many look familiar today.
Friendly members of the California Historical Artillery Society were demonstrating at the annual Old Town event for the first time.
The members of the California Historical Artillery Society were attending the annual Trades That Shaped the West event for the first time.
Approximate blacksmithing prices in the mid 1800's.
Sign shows average blacksmithing prices in the mid 1800’s. The prices were much higher in Northern California during the Gold Rush.
These guys also had a traveling battery forge, used by the Army long ago. Today they are often used in Civil War reenactments.
These guys also had a traveling battery forge, used by the Army long ago. Today they are often used in Civil War reenactments.
I noticed that the snake oil salesman had drawn a crowd!
I noticed that a snake oil salesman had drawn a crowd!
An old lady with a bad case of lumbago was eager to try Dr. Montbank's Tonic Elixir.
An old lady with a bad case of lumbago was eager to try Dr. Montbank’s Tonic Elixir.
I'm not sure it helped much.
I’m not sure it helped much.
A guitar, fiddle, banjo and a bottle. These frontier musicians were getting ready to provide a bit of Western entertainment.
A guitar, a fiddle, and a bottle. These frontier musicians were getting themselves ready to provide a bit of Western entertainment.
Visitors to Old Town were walking in front of the Colorado House and enjoying a sunny San Diego weekend.
Visitors to Old Town were walking in front of the Colorado House and enjoying a sunny San Diego weekend.
Look what's coming! These pack animals have transported the mail all the way from San Antonio!
Look what’s coming! These pack animals have transported the mail all the way from San Antonio!
The Overland Mail Delivery arrived exactly at one o'clock!
The Overland Mail Delivery arrived exactly at one o’clock!
I guess this would qualify as Ground Mail.
I guess this would qualify as Ground Mail.
The small Old Town encampment excitedly greets the four-legged mail carriers.
The small Old Town encampment excitedly greets the four-legged mail carriers.
Mail is handed out to many event participants!
Mail is handed out to many of the event participants!
The young folk don't seem to notice.
These creative young folk are too busy writing their own letters to notice.
An educational slice of history could be enjoyed today in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!
An educational reenactment of history was enjoyed today in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

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You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to share and enjoy!

Photos of amazing orchid show in Balboa Park.

Please forgive me. I’m taking it easy this weekend after all that wonderful Comic-Con insanity. So my walk today was slow and simple: meandering through Balboa Park.

I lingered a long while in the Casa del Prado, where the San Diego County Orchid Society is having their summer show and sale. (It continues on Sunday.)

I discovered amazing beauty everywhere.

Feeling lazy, I didn’t take notes. Just photos of a few blooms that caught my eye.

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Photos of Steven Universe music video with Estelle!

Wow! I just watched an amazing performance!

A fun, upbeat music video featuring Estelle was videotaped this afternoon in San Diego during 2017 Comic-Con! And hundreds of super enthusiastic people–young and old–came out to sing along!

Many in the crowd dressed like their favorite Steven Universe characters or held up signs containing messages of optimism and love!

The crowd sang along and enjoyed every second of it. I’m still feeling elated as I write this blog! Even though I’ve never watched a single episode of Steven Universe or heard the song before.

Estelle is a Grammy-award winning musician. She also voices the character Garnet in Cartoon Network’s super popular animated TV show. It looks to me like Steven Universe rocks!

The guy in charge of the production announced to the crowd that the video, titled Stronger Than You, should appear on Cartoon Network in a couple days.

Let me share a few photos…

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Photos of uniforms, weapons, props of Star Trek: Discovery!

Klingon warrior uniforms on display at the Star Trek Discovery exhibit. Each member or follower of a House is equipped with a unique style of armor.
Klingon warrior uniforms on display at the Star Trek: Discovery exhibit. Each member or follower of a House is equipped with a unique style.

Uniforms, space suits, armors, weapons and other props used in the filming of Star Trek: Discovery have been previewed at 2017 San Diego Comic-Con. The exhibit in the Gaslamp Quarter includes some really incredible pieces. A good number of Federation and Klingon items are on display. I took some photos!

After looking at this incredible exhibit, I definitely want to check out the upcoming television series on CBS All Access. The story will take place about a decade before the events of the original Star Trek series.

Those attending 2017 San Diego Comic-Con had a first look at uniforms, armor, weapons and other props from the upcoming television series Star Trek Discovery.
Those attending 2017 San Diego Comic-Con had a first look at uniforms, armor, weapons and other props from the upcoming television series Star Trek: Discovery.
As I waited in line for the Star Trek Discovery exhibit at 2017 Comic-Con, some cool cosplay went by. These guys have Federation fezzes!
As I waited in line for the Star Trek: Discovery exhibit at 2017 Comic-Con, some cool cosplay went by. These guys have Federation fezzes!
I'm almost ready to enter the Star Trek Discovery exhibit in San Diego's Gaslamp!
I’m almost ready to enter the Star Trek: Discovery exhibit in San Diego’s Gaslamp!
A Starfleet Long Haul Space Suit.
A Starfleet Long Haul Space Suit.
Torchbearer Armor. This suit serves as both an EV space suit and battle armor for selected Kingon warriors.
Torchbearer Armor. This suit serves as both an EV space suit and battle armor for selected Kingon warriors.
The Comic-Con exhibit contains Star Trek Discovery promotional posters and photos from production.
The Comic-Con exhibit contains Star Trek: Discovery promotional posters and photos from the show’s production.
Starfleet Duty Uniforms used in the filming of Star Trek Discovery.
Starfleet Duty Uniforms used in the filming of Star Trek: Discovery.
Starfleet Phaser Pulse Rifle, and Starfleet Hand Phaser.
Starfleet Phaser Pulse Rifle, and Starfleet Hand Phaser.
Another photo of the Starfleet Hand Phaser.
Another photo of the Starfleet Hand Phaser.
Periscopic Klingon Bridge Officer Helmet. Worn by Klingon pilots to provide a Heads Up Display of weapon systems, star system charts, and other tactical information.
Periscopic Klingon Bridge Officer Helmet. Worn by Klingon pilots to provide a Heads Up Display of weapon systems, star system charts, and other tactical information.
Starfleet Tactical Jumpsuit and Vest.
Starfleet Tactical Jumpsuit and Vest.
Starfleet Medical Officer Duty Uniform and Starfleet Duty Uniform, Operations Division.
Starfleet Medical Officer Duty Uniform and Starfleet Duty Uniform, Operations Division.
Standard issue Starfleet Command Communicator and Tricorder.
Standard issue Starfleet Command Communicator and Tricorder.
Klingon Disruptor Rifle and smaller Disruptor.
Klingon Disruptor Rifle and a smaller Disruptor.
Part of a Klingon mek'leth, a ceremonial bladed weapon used in close quarters combat.
Part of a Klingon mek’leth, a ceremonial bladed weapon used in close quarters combat.
House of T'Kuvma Klingon Uniform.
House of T’Kuvma Klingon Uniform.
Klingon Helmet and Collar. Each warrior's battle armor bears a unique look reflecting their honor.
Klingon Helmet and Collar. Each warrior’s battle armor bears a unique look reflecting their honor.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Comic-Con! Huge crowds! Cool cosplay! Crazy fun!

Hello there. I guess this must be Comic-Con!
Hello there. I guess this must be 2017 Comic-Con!

I’ve never seen San Diego Comic-Con so crowded. Saturday is usually the busiest day of Comic-Con, but this year it was plain crazy. So crowded in places you almost couldn’t move!

I somehow managed to walk all over the place. Too much fun!

I started off my walk by getting a free Nickelodeon ice cream sandwich at Horton Plaza Park!
I started off my walk by getting a free Nickelodeon ice cream sandwich at Horton Plaza Park!
It seems the Borg and the Federation have joined forces.
It seems the Borg and the Federation have joined forces.
That crazy Syfy drum line in the Gaslamp again!
That crazy, super energetic Syfy drum line is in the Gaslamp again!
Must get the hair right before taking a picture with a shark.
Must get the hair just right before taking a nice picture with a shark.
It's Jason! Run!
It’s Jason! Run!
Very cool.
Very cool.
The latest Mummy is getting all wrapped up at Comic-Con.
The latest Mummy is getting all wrapped up at Comic-Con.
So much humanity, one can barely move.
So much humanity, one can barely move.
Profile of a Ferengi.
Profile of a Ferengi.
Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman has a buddy.
Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman has a buddy.
Lego Ninjago characters welcome a Comic-Con fan!
Lego Ninjago characters welcome a Comic-Con fan!
People everywhere.
People everywhere.
Cosplay in the Petco Interactive Zone.
Cosplay in the Petco Interactive Zone.
Some laser tag action.
Some laser tag action.
A party inside the Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie truck.
A party inside the Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie truck.
Making friends with Godzilla.
Making friends with Godzilla.
More crowds.
More crowds.
More cosplay.
More cosplay.
Don't ask.
Don’t ask.
Heading down to the area near the Hilton behind the convention center.
Heading down to the area near the Hilton behind the convention center.
I guess those Star Wars lasers do manage to hit something from time to time.
I guess those Star Wars lasers do manage to hit something from time to time.
Salsa picante!
Salsa picante!
Big video screen at the FXhibition.
Big video screen at the FXhibition.
Bolivar Master, from Season 3 of The Strain.
Bolivar Master, from Season 3 of The Strain.
A creepy Strigoi Stinger from The Strain.
A creepy Strigoi Stinger from The Strain.
Free water at Archer, but bring your own cup.
Free water at Archer, but bring your own cup.
Cool Snowfall graphic.
Cool Snowfall graphic.
A pleasant Legion swing.
A pleasant Legion swing.
A convenient Snowfall shoe lacing station.
A convenient Snowfall shoe lacing station.
Looking cool!
Looking cool!
Yodeling.
Yodeling.
People are eager to be screened for the X-Gene.
People are eager to be screened for the X-Gene.
Here comes a couple now.
Here comes a couple now.
They are placed in a transparent tube by Sentinel Services.
They are placed in a transparent tube by Sentinel Services.
An alarm goes off! X-Gene detected! The tube fills with some sort of gas!
An alarm goes off! X-Gene detected! Mutants! The tube fills with some sort of gas!
The Orville Space Training Station readies astronauts to be spun like crazy out of control.
The Orville Space Training Station readies astronauts to be spun like crazy out of control.
A shark fin swimming past Adult Swim.
A shark fin swimming past Adult Swim.
Walking near the entrance to Adult Swim.
Thor and others walking near the entrance to Adult Swim.
Thousands of nerds. I feel right at home.
Thousands of nerds. I feel right at home.
A nice day for ice cream.
Yes, a perfect day for ice cream.
Yikes. I surrender.
Yikes. I surrender.
At first I thought he was a castle. He informed me, however, that his cosplay is silverware.
At first I thought he was a castle. He informed me, however, that his cosplay is silverware.
An original cosplay inspired by H.P Lovecraft, I was told.
An original cosplay inspired by H.P Lovecraft, I was told.
Conival was being held on the terrace near the Marriott Marina.
Conival was being held on the terrace near the Marriott Marina.
Folks chill at Conival.
Folks chill at Conival.
Kylo Ren uses the Force to extract cold mist from a fan.
Kylo Ren uses the Force to extract cold mist from a fan.
Posing as astronauts amid flying saucers.
Posing as astronauts amid flying saucers.
Some ordinary person is just walking along heading to the hotel.
Looks like some ordinary person is just walking along heading to the hotel.
These guys started with established characters then added their own original stuff.
These guys started with established characters then added their own original stuff.
These sinister villains are in pink and black uniforms.
These sinister villains are in pink and black uniforms.
The Cartoon Network balloons seen from Children's Park. One of the balloons burst I was told. A bird hit it.
The Cartoon Network balloons seen from Children’s Park. One of the balloons burst I was told. A bird hit it.
A caricature artist at work on MLK Promenade.
A caricature artist at work on MLK Promenade.
Superboy transforms into The Tick.
Superboy transforms into The Tick.
Someone had a transplant. They now have a monitor instead of a head.
Someone had a transplant. They now have a monitor instead of a head.
Cleaning up means finding cool swag!
Cleaning up means finding cool swag!
Batman's Rogue Gallery has the Caped Crusader and Robin surrounded.
Batman’s Rogue Gallery has the Caped Crusader and Robin surrounded.
The DC superheroes and supervillains seem to be getting along better than usual.
The DC superheroes and supervillains seem to be getting along better than usual.
An awesome Transformer stands high above the Comic-Con crowd in the Gaslamp.
An awesome Transformer stands high above the Comic-Con crowd in the Gaslamp.
I don't know this cosplay.
I don’t know this cosplay. Pretty cool, though. UPDATE! Sam commented that this is likely Azrael Batman.
I'm pretty sure that's Cable of the X-Men.
I’m pretty sure that’s Cable of the X-Men.
Yes. It must be another San Diego Comic-Con!
Yes. It must be another San Diego Comic-Con!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to share and enjoy!

Comic-Con insanity! More cosplay and a TV star!

An uncanny cosplay of Spock!
An uncanny cosplay of Spock!

Here comes another big dose of 2017 Comic-Con insanity! Check out all these photos of great, inventive cosplay! And other cool stuff! And I had a sighting of a big TV star, too!

A happy Star Wars family heads down Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp during 2017 Comic-Con.
A happy Star Wars family heads down Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp during 2017 Comic-Con.
This member of the Fantastic Four seems embarrassed. Probably due to their last movie.
This member of the Fantastic Four seems embarrassed. Probably due to their last movie.
I'm not sure what this dog's super power is.
I’m not sure what this dog’s super power is.
Lots of leathery costumes. I see Flash and Deadpool.
Lots of leathery costumes. I see Flash and Deadpool.
Now that is one wicked Venom cosplay!
Now that is one wicked Venom cosplay!
She-Hulk and Raven cosplay during 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!
She-Hulk and Raven cosplay during 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!
An awesome Dumbledore cosplay!
An awesome Dumbledore cosplay!
Walking around Comic-Con is like voyaging through a crazy, wacky, wonderful dream.
Walking around Comic-Con is like voyaging through a crazy, wacky, wonderful dream.
A tiny alien gives me the thumbs up near the Donut Bar.
A tiny alien gives me the thumbs up near the Donut Bar.
A steampunk Ghostbuster shows me his very cool proton pack.
A steampunk Ghostbuster shows me his very cool proton pack.
Donate blood during Comic-Con at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel and you'll get this cool shirt!
Donate blood during Comic-Con at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel and you’ll get this cool shirt!
A friendly Harry Potter says hello.
A friendly Harry Potter says hello.
Even Flash can't remove his eyes from that spellbinding phone.
Even Flash can’t remove his eyes from that spellbinding phone.
This might be my favorite cosplay. Opera Bugs Bunny! What's Opera, Doc?
This might be my favorite cosplay. Opera Bugs Bunny! What’s Opera, Doc?
Members of the Montrose Magpies Quidditch team!
Members of the Montrose Magpies Quidditch team!
I was told this is a cosplay of Spartan Mandalorian.
I was told this is a cosplay of Spartan Mandalorian.
Must be out of web fluid. Because Spiderman's hanging at the end of the line.
Must be out of web fluid. Because Spiderman’s hanging at the end of the line.
It doesn't seem people talk to each other anymore. Perhaps escapism can go too far?
A similar sight everywhere. People don’t talk to each other like they used to. Perhaps escapism can go too far?
Cosplay from Dragonball Z.
Cosplay from Dragonball Z.
A morning session of Ninjago yoga (ninjoga) at Comic-Con!
A morning session of Ninjago yoga (Ninjoga) at Comic-Con!
Princess Leia sets up a cut-out of Bernie Sanders.
Princess Leia sets up a cut-out of Bernie Sanders.
Meet Mr. Nice guy!
Meet Mr. Nice guy!
Cosplay of a Star Wars Jawa.
Cosplay of a Star Wars Jawa.
This must be Captain A-mario.
This must be Captain A-mario.
Lightsabers and minions...
Lightsabers and minions…
Bare-chested Outlander guys were getting lots of attention near the Omni.
Bare-chested Outlander guys were getting lots of attention near the Omni.
This guy is raising awareness about the charitable organization Oxfam. They are providing help for refugees.
This guy is raising awareness about the charitable organization Oxfam. They are providing help for refugees during the current crisis. Refugees are real people in a real world.
Actor Grant Gustin, who plays the superhero Flash on CW looks down on the Comic-Con crowd from a Hard Rock Hotel balcony.
Actor Grant Gustin, who plays the superhero Flash on CW looks down on the Comic-Con crowd from a Hard Rock Hotel balcony.
Three large Alien eggs on display. I didn't hang around because I noticed one was opening.
Three large Alien eggs on display. I didn’t hang around because I noticed one was opening.
A good old fashioned Stormtrooper.
A good old-fashioned Stormtrooper.
And a very inventive Star Wars speeder!
And a very inventive Star Wars speeder!
Hi Gumby and Pokey!
Hi Gumby and Pokey!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to share and enjoy!

Vikings actors greet crowd! A longship burns!

Viking warriors gather on Embarcadero Marina Park South during 2017 Comic-Con to reenact the funeral ceremony of a fallen hero.
Viking warriors gather at Embarcadero Marina Park South during 2017 Comic-Con to reenact the funeral ceremony of a fallen hero.

A special event during 2017 Comic-Con was held Friday evening at Embarcadero Marina Park South. Vikings, a popular show on History, staged a ceremonial Viking funeral that climaxed with the burning of a longship on San Diego Bay!

A large crowd gathered in the park and watched as a fallen hero was carried off by other warriors with great solemnity. Then they cheered when the principal actors made a sudden appearance.

The staged burning of the Viking longship was exactly the sort of spectacle one expects at Comic-Con!

Fans at San Diego Comic-Con await a special event that promotes the History Channel's hit show Vikings.
Fans at San Diego Comic-Con await a special event that promotes History’s hit show Vikings.
A 45 foot Viking longship floats on San Diego Bay. Its burning will be a central attraction of the event.
A 45 foot Viking longship floats on San Diego Bay. Its burning will be a central attraction of the event.
Here come actors portraying a clan of Vikings. We're almost ready to begin.
Here come actors portraying a clan of Vikings. We’re almost ready to begin.
A fallen warrior is ready to be carried from a small fortress-like Viking building.
A fallen warrior is ready to be carried from a small fortress-like Viking building.
The body is transported out in a solemn ceremony.
The body is transported out in a solemn ceremony.
I knew the Vikings were great explorers, but I didn't realize they sailed all the way to San Diego Bay!
I knew the Vikings were great explorers, but I didn’t realize they sailed all the way to San Diego Bay!
Act One is complete.
Act One is complete.
After a long wait, the stars of the show arrive to much cheering. Here comes Katheryn Winnick, who portrays Lagertha.
After a long wait, the stars of the show arrive to much cheering. Here comes Katheryn Winnick, who portrays Lagertha.
And here is Travis Fimmel, who for many years played the lead character Ragnar Lothbrok.
And here is Alexander Ludwig, who plays Bjorn Ironside.
Travis Fimmel greets his fans in San Diego during 2017 Comic-Con.
Alexander Ludwig greets his fans in San Diego during 2017 Comic-Con.
The crowd favorite arrives. It's Alexander Ludwig, who plays Bjorn Lothbrok.
A crowd favorite arrives. It’s Alex Hogh Andersen, who plays Ivar the Boneless.
Alexander Ludwig heads into the fortress, from which the actors address the crowd.
Alex Hogh Andersen heads into the fortress, from which the actors address the crowd.
Everyone listens to the actors, watches a trailer and answers show trivia for prizes while we wait for twilight.
Everyone listens to the actors, watches a trailer and answers show trivia for prizes while we wait for twilight.
People grow restless after waiting quite a long while.
People grow restless after waiting quite a long while.
The Viking longship is overtaken by shadow as the sun sets, then finally the nearby boats move safely away.
The Viking longship is overtaken by shadow as the sun sets, then finally the nearby boats move safely away.
A Viking funeral. The longship burns on San Diego Bay.
A Viking funeral. The longship burns on San Diego Bay.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to share and enjoy!

More craziness and cosplay at 2017 Comic-Con!

A dinosaur has been spotted roaming among the huge crowds at 2017 Comic-Con!
A dinosaur has been spotted roaming among the huge crowds at 2017 Comic-Con!

The absolute zaniness of Comic-Con is something you have to experience for yourself. It seems that this year, no matter where I walk, downtown San Diego is crazier than ever!

There’s no escape from the all-out Hollywood marketing mayhem; super creative cosplay is everywhere; and everywhere you turn there is something new, absurd and undeniably magical!

Adam Warlock has the Infinity Gauntlet. Thanos doesn't have a chance.
Adam Warlock has the Infinity Gauntlet. Thanos doesn’t have a chance.
Cosplay of Sheriff Deputy Rick Grimes from The Walking Dead, Season One.
Cosplay of Sheriff Deputy Rick Grimes from The Walking Dead, Season One.
Cosplay of Mercy and Reaper of Overwatch!
Cosplay of Mercy and Reaper of Overwatch!
Kids ride a Star Wars speeder through the Gaslamp!
Kids ride a Star Wars speeder through the Gaslamp!
Klingon cosplay during San Diego Comic-Con!
Klingon cosplay during San Diego Comic-Con!
Actual weddings will take place at Syfy's Geek Love Chapel!
Actual weddings will take place at Syfy’s Geek Love Chapel during 2017 Comic-Con!
A peek into the romantic Geek Love Chapel!
A peek into the romantic Geek Love Chapel!
Cosplay Aquaman and--I believe--Mera.
Cosplay of Aquaman and–I believe–Mera.
Another very cool Loki cosplay!
Another very cool Loki cosplay!
Cosplays of Hermione, Daredevil, and American Maid from The Tick.
Cosplays of Hermione, Daredevil, and American Maid from The Tick.
Just a whole lot of crazy fun at 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!
Just a whole lot of crazy fun at 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!
Adult Swim was offering free rides around the city to Comic-Con fans.
Adult Swim was offering free rides around the city for Comic-Con fans.
I was told this cosplay is from PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds.
I was told this cosplay is from PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds.
A bunch of Vikings have assembled in the Gaslamp to promote the History Channel's popular program.
A bunch of Vikings have assembled in the Gaslamp to promote History’s popular show.
The dead body of a heroic Viking warrior is carried down Fifth Avenue for Comic-Con.
The dead body of a heroic Viking warrior is carried down Fifth Avenue for Comic-Con.
Horn blows during the Viking funeral procession.
Horn blows during the Viking funeral procession.
I see a cosplay Hawkman and Hawkgirl.
I see a cosplay Hawkman and Hawkgirl.
A fan poses with another cosplay Aquaman.
A fan poses with another cosplay Aquaman.
Cosplay of Robin. He must think I'm a crafty supervillain.
Cosplay of a feisty Robin. He must think I’m a crafty supervillain.
Here comes Pepsiman! He must be searching for his adversary Cokeman.
Here comes Pepsiman! He must be searching for his adversary Cokeman.
It's Gulliver of the San Diego Gulls hockey team at Comic-Con!
It’s Gulliver of the San Diego Gulls hockey team at Comic-Con!
Max offered me a ride on his cool Star Trek pedicab!
Max offered me a ride on his cool Star Trek Discovery pedicab!
Here we go, down the crazy streets of San Diego!
Here we go, down the streets of downtown San Diego!
Wonder Woman was waving her God Killer sword about, so we kept a safe distance.
Wonder Woman was waving her God Killer sword about, so we kept a safe distance.
Even the Super Dentists are at Comic-Con!
Even the Super Dentists are at Comic-Con!
Orange Golf Vader and other assorted weird, unknown villains lie in wait on the sidewalk.
Orange Golf Vader and other assorted weird, unknown villains lie in wait on the sidewalk.
Cosplay of Dark Angel Olivia from Rage of Bahamut. Super cool!
Cosplay of Dark Angel Olivia from Rage of Bahamut. Super cool!
Uh, oh! Harley's got her big hammer poised and ready!
Uh, oh! Harley’s got her big hammer poised and ready!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to share and enjoy!

Broad City fans paint big coloring book at Comic-Con!

A scene from Broad City comes to life inside Comedy Central's enormous coloring book during 2017 Comic-Con.
A scene from Broad City comes to life inside Comedy Central’s enormous “coloring book” during 2017 Comic-Con.

Have you ever stepped inside a coloring book? You can at 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!

The Comedy Central series Broad City has a cool, free attraction where people can paint the walls of a room with colorful scenes from the show! It’s paint by numbers! It’s a brilliant idea that inspires fan interaction! Take a look!

Anyone can enjoy this Broad City special attraction during Comic-Con. If you share a photo with a certain hashtag, you can win a prize.
Anyone can enjoy this Broad City special attraction during Comic-Con. If you share a photo with a certain hashtag, you can win a prize.
People look at the colorfully painted walls, or take up a brush and contribute with their own creativity.
People look at the colorfully painted walls, or take up a brush and contribute with their own creativity.
Some of the bright artwork inspired by the wacky Comedy Central show Broad City.
Some of the bright artwork inspired by the wacky Comedy Central show Broad City.
Photo of finished artwork on the floor.
Photo of some finished artwork on the floor.
SpongeBob SquarePants checks out the dazzling Broad City coloring book room!
SpongeBob SquarePants checks out the dazzling Broad City coloring book room! He must think the luminous colors are like bright fish underwater.
The paint seems to magically glow in the dimly lit room.
The paint seems to magically glow in the dimly lit room.
More humorous images inspired by the popular Comedy Central show.
More humorous images inspired by the popular Comedy Central show.
Artwork painted by fans.
Artwork painted by fans.
Someone adds color to the Season Premiere.
Someone adds color to the Season Premiere.
These kids are contributing, too. It's color by number.
These kids are contributing, too. It’s color by number.
Fan of the Comedy Central show Broad City paints a wall during 2017 San Diego Comic-Con.
Fan of the Comedy Central show Broad City paints a wall during 2017 San Diego Comic-Con!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!