Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope

I'm in dire need of some suggestions! I recently committed to taking some friends (mid to late 20's males) to this event. I don't believe any of them have ever attended an anime/comic convention and I would really like to make it special for them. I would love some suggestions from the veterans of this event to a couple of things! I'm willing to repay your kindness with an adult beverage (provided you are of age) Should we cosplay? Is it better to attend the event for a single day or multiple? Is it worth renting a hotel room to stay on the premises? What are some of the fan favorite events to attend? Lastly in terms of night life... do people prefer the late night dance party, going to nearby bars, or nerding out in after party better? Your input is much appreciated!

I'd say hell yes, cosplay. If you're paying to go, might as well take the opportunity. And you may meet other fans and people wanting pics, etc, it can be a fun social activity. Even if it's thrown together on a last-minute budget, you can do some clever things with a group. Be a zombie hoard, ghosts and pac-man, Avengers, Ninja Turtles, the possibilities in a group can make it more fun than solo cosplay. ^^ As for the days- depends. If you can wait to decide, hold off until they release the schedule and you'll see if one particular day is calling to you guys or if there's plenty to do on the other days. Maid cafe, special guests, panels, dances, karaoke, meetups, gaming room, anime screenings, dealer rooms, and etc- it can fill a day for sure. I don't know about this particular hotel- it might be all booked by now. But some of the late-night 18+ panels can be a hoot. I'm no local and this will be my first time at this particular con, but there's all kinds of stuff going on nearby, so I bet you'll find plenty of entertainment beyond this con, too. There is of course the rave they have here, but maybe you'd want to get out and stretch after a full day. Eh, hope that helps in some way. Have fun, man.

Thank you very much lady, that information was immensely helpful! I'll be cosplaying Professor Oak at the event with a lab coat that has my actual name woven above the chest pocket. Don't hesitate to hit me up and I'll repay your kindness.

Professor Oak sounds like a pretty great one, especially considering the number of people who will go as Pokemon; that would make for hilarious pictures. Now, if only someone would be tall grass... See you there, perhaps!

I'll definitely party with you if you're looking to. My roomie and I are 27 and 28 respectively, always down to have a good time. I'll be the short Chewy with a beard and he's Han Solo. If you see us, come say hi. Otherwise I'll keep my eyes peeled. If you're buddies are on the fence, we'll make sure they're buying their tickets for next year in August.

Sounds good to me man. Not looking to get pie-eyed, just want to meet some new peeps and have some fun. My buddies and I only scooped a hotel room for Saturday night. Currently debating if we should swing down Friday night and scope out the event. My email is mikeike64@gmail.com if you want to email me your cell. I'll shoot you a text and keep you in the loop to our plans.