New Braunfels Launches Inaugural 8-Bit Block Party
Pop culture enthusiasts of all kinds gathered in New Braunfels over the weekend for the highly anticipated 8-Bit Block Party. Originally scheduled for 2020, the event had been postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, this year, organizers were determined to bring the celebration to life.
Jannette DiPiazza, one of the organizers of the 8-Bit Block Party, shared their journey, stating, “We were originally going to have it in 2020, but with COVID and everything, it got shut down. So, we backed us up a little bit.” The event, running through Sunday, July 16th, promised to make up for lost time by offering a diverse range of activities and attractions.
Despite the name, the 8-Bit Block Party was not limited to video game enthusiasts. From Anime fans to Science fiction and Fantasy enthusiasts, as well as comic book lovers, there was truly something for everyone. “This is an everything convention,” emphasized cosplayer Preslie Belladonna, adding, “It’s Gundams, it’s anime, video games. It’s Pokémon, it’s Halo. Everything is here.”
Cosplayers, such as The Crimson Victoria and Belladonna, found themselves at the center of attention. Dressed as Super Mario and Luigi, respectively, they highlighted the financial opportunities associated with turning their passion for cosplay into a profession. Belladonna shared, “Depending on the event, you can make from like 100 bucks a gig to maybe a thousand, depending on the size of the gig and what you have on your table.” Cosplay had become an essential part of the convention culture, allowing fans to express their love for their favorite characters.
In addition to the entertainment, the 8-Bit Block Party also made a meaningful impact on the community. The convention partnered with Heroes N More, a group of dedicated cosplayers, including DiPiazza, who work together to raise funds for children with debilitating illnesses. Through their efforts, they were able to grant wishes and bring joy to the lives of these children. Dressing up as their favorite characters, the cosplayers brought smiles to the faces of the young patients, offering a much-needed escape from their challenging circumstances. DiPiazza explained, “And it really brightens their day. And that’s what we try to do.”
The 8-Bit Block Party successfully merged 8-bit nostalgia with contemporary pop culture, captivating attendees with its wide range of activities and its commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
