WAHOOO, last minute miracle, and hubby and I get to attend this year. We volunteer with the Charity events staff. Last year the booth was right next to where the line for author signings forms. If it's the same this year, stop by and say howdy!!! Please, please stop by, I'd be nice to look like i actually know people.
I've been going for five years. Words of advice.
Wear comfortable shoes.
People are generally very nice. Frankly, in five years I've never come across anyone who is a jerk, but have heard stories from others.
If you want to go to a potentially popular panel, get there, and get in line early. They do not let you squat, but instead clear the room between each panel. They also don't let people line up too early for panels. They also try to do the same or similar panels on different days and times. Check the schedule in advance.
They are doing Thursday night programming this year.
Embrace the phrase 'line party'. Live it, love it. There are lines for the elevator.
If you have small children with you, yes, they are occasionally more 'adult' styles of costumes' (I'm sorry, but pasties are not a costume, no matter what they claim). Frankly, I think the kids are more fascinated by the 501St than by somebody in pasties anywho.