How to Enjoy the 'Game of Thrones' Long After the Final Season

It is one of the most (or the most) popular shows on television. Dedicated fans have waited in anticipation, over one year, for the final season. Theories, plot twists, and character development are debated, discussed and celebrated all over social media, and on popular websites and blogs. While I'm very excited to watch the final season, many are disappointed by the shortened eighth season. There are ways to prolong the enjoyment, long after the final episode airs...

Cosplay

This has gained in popularity in more recent years, from Star Wars to anime, cosplay is enjoyed by all ages and backgrounds. It is likely that engaging in characterizing GOT characters for cosplay events will continue indefinitely. Reenacting scenes, quoting from the show and books, will remain popular for years to come.

Theme Parties

This is another popular option among fans, from private parties to events at night clubs, bars, and in some cases, elaborate shows for the most dedicated. If you are a fan, but not keen on sporting a costume, some venues have created GOT themed food and drink menu items, trivia and other activities to celebrate the series. Medieval style decor and furniture brings the theme to life as well. Birthdays and weddings can be GOT-themed for the biggest fans.

Rereading the Books, Rewatching the Series

There is almost always a scene or dialogue that contains a missed detail or hint of deceit or calculation, and reading or viewing some scenes a sexond or third time can provide a new perspective on a particular outcome. Some episodes are fun to watch for entertainment value. Introducing the series to a friend who hasn't seen it yet can be particularly satisfying, and difficult to avoid spoilers.

Vacations to Filming Sites

This is a goal I'm considering myself, and a few others: traveling to some of the countries where the series was filmed. I don't have a complete list of all the areas, though a quick web search will provide more details. Iceland has tours specifically taking tourists to where scenes were filmed. There are many castles, bridges, and landmarks that stir the imagination, and bring back memories of specific battles and scenes.

Prequels and Related Upcoming Shows

There are other shows, including a prequel, in progress, and this is definitely something to look forward to. There are a lot of theories, and back stories that can be explained in a prequel series, which may or may not have been covered in the books.

Parodies and Comedic Reenactments

Satire is a guilty pleasure that I enjoy, from skits and improv, to satirical news articles. The Game of Thrones is no exception, and many comedians have found a lot of creativity, from late night shows to YouTube stars, and cartoons. There will be no end to comedic relief inspired by the show, even long after the finale.

Last, but not least...

Halloween

It's six months away, long past the season's end, and a perfect way to celebrate. If your friends or family are fans as well, characters can be incorporated into families or groups from the show. Creative decorations for trick or treating can add an iron throne, goblets, swords as props to your front yard. Halloween parties can include cookies, candies, and drinks to fit the theme as well.

Many shows have left a lasting impression with their fans, even decades later, through reruns, spin offs, and reinterpretation. The Game of Thrones series is no different, and likely to last for many years into the future with lots of creativity and imagination.