Today was the first day of London-based YouTube convention,
Summer in the City (SiTC). In its sixth year, this event offers YouTube fans
from the UK and Europe a chance to meet their favourite creators, while spending
time with others who share their interests.
Devoted fans began to gather and queue at 04:30 in the
morning and by the time the doors opened at 11:00, thousands of young YouTube viewers and creators were
amassed in the sunny courtyard of Alexandra Palace.
Organised by YouTubers, Tom, Liam, Dave, Luke, and Jazza, the
event offered a mix of panels and presentations, signings and meet-ups, as well
as booths, gaming stations, lounging areas and merchandising stands.
Visitors were able to test out new games, learn more about
the Raindance Film Festival or stop at the YouTube stand where fans and creators
could ask questions and request help with their channels.
The YouTube stand also
showcased the GoogleGlass prototype, a device that, if priced correctly, may
revolutionise how people engage with media.
This year’s panel discussions catered to a range of
interests from comedy, collaborations and gaming to LGBT, Women’s issues,
politics and BookTube as well as a much anticipated, packed-out Q&A session
with SprinkleofGlitter.
Many fans queued for hours to meet their favourite YouTubers,
get signatures and pictures, or watch them perform on the main stage.
For the first time, SiTC hosted a YouTube awards ceremony,
recognising local creators for their achievements. Several popular YouTubers received
their silver play button awards for reaching 10 thousand subscribers, while five
channels earning their gold buttons for reaching one million.
The screaming at the ceremony was deafening, particularly
for award hosts Dan and Phil.
Organisers were prepared, however, for the thousands of fans,
with 16 first aiders on hand and a tent for those who would be likely to faint.
The day was finished off with music performances by BriBry,
Tessa Violet and Mr Weebl.
SiTC 2014 also introduced an additional day to the event,
specifically designed for creators with a line-up of informative panels and
workshops aimed at supporting YouTube creators increase their following,
production values and encourage up and coming YouTube creators to produce good
content.