The Official ‘Twilight’ Convention is in full swing this weekend at the Hilton Hotel in Parsippany, New Jersey.
More than 2,000 teens are expected at the event this weekend for a three-day, sold-out convention celebrating the “Twilight” series.
The popular book series, which centers on star-crossed lovers Edward Cullen and Bella Swan was penned by stay-at-home mother of three Stephanie Meyer. The series has captured millions of readers with an unlikely romance between a teenaged girl and a vampire who fights the desire to drink her blood.
The ‘Twilight’ franchise gained more momentum with the books’ film adaptation. The first book in the series was released as a major motion picture in November of 2008 under the direction of Catherine Hardwick, and the second, “New Moon,” is set to be released in theaters Nov. 20.
The convention is being hosted by Creation Entertainment, and will include several cast appearances, contests, autographs, and a Saturday night vampire ball and vampire court presentation.
Hardwick made an appearance at the event Friday. While stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart will not appear, fans can look forward to meeting supporting cast members including Edi Gathegi, who plays Laurent; Justin Chon, cast as Eric Yorkie; Chaske Spencer, who will take on the role of Sam Uley in ‘New Moon’; Alex Meraz, who plays Paul; and Kiowa Gordon, cast as Embry.
The Hilton and Creation Entertainment have also played host to the Star Trek convention. Harold Bassler, complex general manager for the Hilton in Parsippany, said he expects that the hotel will continue to host “Twilight” conventions, as well.
“It’s a high-profile event, so it gets the Hilton name out there,” Bassler said. “It brings activity to our area. It’s good news for Morris County and it’s good news for the Hilton.”
The ‘Twilight’ Convention will take place throughout the nation and conclude in Portland, Oregon in September.
The City & My Life 