@Plucky Novice - this will be my fifth year of going, and it's become like an annual get-together. I know that sounds corny, but it's true.
I've had lunch with a few Chrons members while there, and chatted to others. It's got to the point where I look out for certain people, to make sure I say 'hi'. Also, I've had people who I've only met online (outside of Chrons) recognise me, come up and start talking, then introduce me to authors who I've had to control my inner fanperson around. There are no airs and graces -- it's all very friendly, and you can interact as much, or as little, as you wish.
Basically, it's reasonably small - in the past it's usually been two conference rooms, each with its own schedule (you choose which panels you want to see, and move between the two); there's also a sellers' room, with publishers and others selling their items; and there's an art room.
There's also BarCon - the during, and after convention discussion over a pint, or a cup of tea, and a sandwich at the hotel bar.
