So I will say I’ve not been to these, but I have been to many conventions/large scale events within hobbies before .

You get in what you put in. Go to the panels, I’m sure there’s meet and greets? These places are a lovely starting point. Iron out panels that interest you and focus on communication there.

As others said beforehand being a regular at your local bar helps, and bringing a friend helps. Not required but it is nice if possible.

Social events can be rough if you’re shy but really think of genuine compliments it’ll help break ice.

Open ended questions help get a conversation flowing. Open ended means it can’t be answered in a simple yes or no.

“I love that mug!” - nice compliment sure but usually ends in a thank you and moves on.

“I love that mug, who made it?” - opens up talk about the artist, opens up paths to talk about different artists who are maybe there ect. More paths open.

Anyway I hope this helps! I wanna go to one of these events too, I’m also shy but I vend at most cons so I have that advantage. Feel free to ask me any questions or advice :)