While July’s San Diego Comic-Con takes the forefront in pop culture gatherings, there are many smaller events throughout the year to give fans a similar experience, such as Oceanside’s SoCal Comic Con and Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo in L.A.

Founded by dedicated collectors Rey Reyes and Joel Elad, many North County fans have flocked to So Cal Comic Con since its first gathering in 2010. This year’s convention will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m on Oct. 18 at the QLN Conference Center.

Announced in April, the 2015 guest of honor will be iconic comic writer and artist Rob Liefeld, who worked with Marvel and DC. His most well-known works include the creation of the “X-Force” and character Deadpool in the 1990s.

Tony Fleecs of IDW’s “My Little Pony,” Richard Friend of DC Comics’ “Return of the Dark Knight” and many other industry members will be in attendance along with representatives from various comic shops and vendors including Sky High Comics, Alakazam Comics and publisher IDW.

Event organizers encourage attendees to join their first ever costume contest and arrive early. Special grab bags will be handed out to the first 100 guests in line. Entry costs $10 per person, while active duty military personnel and children under the age of 13 can attend for free. Those that bring the official So Cal Comic Con 2015 postcard that can be found in some local shops, like Sky High Comics, will get a $1 discount on their admission. Visit www.socalcomiccon.com for updates on this year’s convention.

Starting Oct. 30, Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo will take over the Los Angeles Convention Center Halloween weekend to provide pop culture fun for fans. Guests of honor include critically acclaimed DC Comics writer Grant Morrison, “Firefly” actress Summer Glau, iconic indie comic creator Bryan Lee O’Malley and Queen of Burlesque, Dita Von Teese.

In August, organizers announced the inaugural Cosplay National Championship contest that will take place at the convention on Oct. 31. Participants will be competing for prizes, including cash amounts worth more than $10,000. The following day, the winner of their Prop Making National Championship will also be announced.

Tickets are available for purchase online. For those wanting to attend all three days, the Multipass costs $75, Friday and Sunday badges are $30 and Saturday is $35. Children 12 years old and under will have free admission.

To add more to your Comikaze Expo experience, many fan experience packages are still available.

Some service charges may be added when purchasing online. Attendees can still buy tickets onsite during the event.

For more information on the convention’s celebration of the fans for the fans, visit www.comikazeexpo.com.