Calling all Hallmark Christmas movie fans! And you all know who you are. I must admit I too have a guilty pleasure of Hallmark films especially during the holiday season. Due to its overwhelming popularity, it was inevitable that a convention celebrating these seasonal films and most importantly the talent behind them would come to fruition.
Christmas Con is the brain child behind a group of young ladies that make up That’s 4 Entertainment. The original Con debuted in December 2019. I missed it that year because of the birth of my son. I was eager to cover the event in 2020. However, a little something called COVID put coal in all our stockings. I am very happy to say that the demand for this event did not derail. If anything, it never seemed higher and the result was a 3-day celebration in New Jersey.
Talent Galore!
Over 30 talented actors and actresses descended on the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center this past weekend. That is an impressive amount of star power and a testament to the commitment of That’s 4 Entertainment to put on a convention worth attending.
Besides the talent, there were roughly 25-30 vendors of different varieties. This was your go to place for gift ideas. Whatever you fancy whether it be candles, wreaths, graphic tees or ornaments they got you covered. It’s a quaint setting and quite spread out. Given the times we currently live in, that is a major plus. There were tons of photo opportunities, from a gingerbread house that sold gingerbread cookies to meeting Santa to the beautifully decorated tree that led the celebrity signing area. These all seem to be major hits with every convention goer.
Panels on the Main Stage
The main stage held several panels during the event and much like the bigger cons, the room would be cleared in between panels. VIPs would be seated first followed by regular ticket holders. It was quick and easy so there was no fear of missing out. If I had a suggestion, a small vendor offering snacks and drinks stationed on either side would be appreciated. The general buzz for those seated was fear of leaving and not being allowed back or losing their seat. All the panels I attended was never fully filled but seating was scarce as each panel began. At quick glance the main stage seated about 500 people.
Andrew Walker thanking the fans 
Ugly Sweater Contest judged by Walker, Kristoffer Polaha, Jill Wagner and hosted by Jonathan Bennett
The highlight was the talent themselves. They are the reasons why we go in the first place. Everything else is icing on the cake. Why I say highlight is a result of how engaging they all are to their fans. I’ve been attending conventions for 30 years. I have met and interviewed hundreds of talents over those years. You would be hard pressed to find a more gracious collective of actors and actresses anywhere.
Overall, if you are a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies, this is the best gift you can give yourselves. Meeting your favorite stars isn’t too costly which means individually everyone was under $100. Group pricing obviously changes that. For more information, pricing for either autographs, table selfies and professional photos are posted on https://www.thats4entertainment.com/ as well as scheduling. Got questions? The show-runners have answers and will do so very promptly.
May the Dork be with you,
James
The Dork Knight
