The Atlanta Comics Expo (ACE), presented by Dragon Con, takes place February 8-10, 2008 at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel in downtown Atlanta, and this year's show kicks into high gear with features and events quite unlike the typical comic book show. Highlights include a stunning lounge, casual seating throughout the common areas, Mardis Gras-style décor and free WiFi in the hotel lobby areas.

ACE is a three-day celebration of comics and the visual arts, with programs and events designed to immerse fans and collectors into the exciting world of comics and pop culture. ACE has something for most every fan -- from graphic fiction to art prints to designer toys to Asian animation, films and costuming.

ACE is proud to present a stellar roster of guests from the comic and pop art world. Included in the 2008 lineup are Eric Powell, Andy Runton, Mike Kunkel, Ragnar, Ethan Van Sciver, Joseph Michael Linsner, David Mack, Mark Brooks, Phil Noto, Sket One and Special Guest Michael Golden -- to name just a few.

Creators will be on hand for autographing, sketching and an in depth series of panel presentations.  And of particular interest to art students, DC editor Bob Schreck and Dark Horse editor Diana Schutz will be conducting portfolio reviews (along with some of ACE’s other guests) throughout the weekend.  This event feature provides a remarkable opportunity for aspiring artists to get invaluable advice from some of the top names in the comics industry.

A huge dealer hall will be open so that guests can find the elusive comic or collectible to finish off collections, and attendees who pre-register will receive one of several exclusive Atlanta Comics Expo prints, featuring art by some the world’s finest illustrators, including Georgia comics legend, Jack Davis.

ACE is holding a fundraiser of designer toys to benefit RIF (Reading is Fundamental). Several of the illustration world's top creators will be customizing blank “Munnys” -- a popular vinyl toy created by preeminent designer and toy manufacturer, Kid Robot -- to be auctioned off with proceeds donated to RIF. Kid Robot’s own Toy Baroness will be on hand to help promote this important and visually stunning charity event. Among those confirmed to participate are Michael Golden, Ragnar, “The Goon” creator Eric Powell, Derek Yaniger, Eric Pigors, “Owly” creator Andy Runton, Tyson McAdoo, and Cartoon Network’s Stephanie Gladden.

In addition to a full roster of daytime programming, ACE attendees will have access to evening entertainment as well. Friday evening will feature the Haunted Luau party (organizers tell us to think of it as Halloween in February with a Polynesian twist), with live music from The Cemetery Surfers, creepy contests, and free face painting, courtesy of the creatures of Netherworld Haunted House.

Saturday evening includes another party in the Sheraton’s beautiful Capitol Ballroom with live music, a costume contest with cash prizes and the exciting debut of a new project from “Herobear and the Kid” creator Mike Kunkel; DJ Spider will be spinning her way into the night throughout the weekend.

The Expo will be open during the following times:

Friday, February 8th, Noon – 7pm
Saturday, February 9th, 10am – 7pm
Sunday, February 10th, 10am – 5pm

Admittance prices are as follows:

Friday - $10
Saturday - $15
Sunday - $10
3-Day Pass - $25

Sheraton Atlanta
165 Courtland St. NE
Atlanta, GA 30303

Visit www.atlantacomicsexpo.org for complete information and updated program schedules.