NEW YORK - Fans of comics, science fiction, anime, and fantasy are taking over Manhattan starting Thursday for New York Comic Con.

The four day event is mainly taking place at the Jacob Javits Center, but because the crowd has grown so much, events are also being held at Madison Square Garden and Hammerstein Ballroom.

More than 200,000 people attended Comic Con last year.

Comic fans will have an opportunity to attend celebrity panels and meet their favorite artists.

For many attendees, it is Halloween come early. They create costumes and dress up as their favorite characters.

This year there is a separately ticketed festival dedicated to anime.

It's taking place at Pier 94.

For more information visit newyorkcomiccon.com.