TLDR;

I think it's worth it and I believe every enthusiast should go once, but only buy the $25 ticket if you're okay waiting in line 1hr+ for entry and don't mind bustling crowds. Otherwise, buy a VIP ticket.

If you opt to buy VIP, wait for a year you have things you want to buy to make the experience more worth while.

Full post:

I've been as a hobbyist. While I enjoyed the experience and even bought things, I personally would not go back unless I bought VIP (which I will at some point).

The lines are MASSIVE for general admission. I paid extra for the early entry (but not VIP) and it was still at least an hour to get in. When I left, the lines were twice as long for the GA. A lot of the time waiting you're in a building with A/C at least, and there are bathrooms available.

By time regular hours opened, the place was busy around the main parts. I personally do not like bustling crowds, therefore I felt overwhelmed.

I didn't stay in the afternoon, so it may die down, but I also don't know if booths get sparse as people buy stuff all day, especially on Sunday since it's the last day.

If you're a person who isn't bothered by these things, definitely get the $25 ticket.

I also think the experience is more fun if you have things you want to buy, even just small stuff. If you decide to buy VIP tickets, I would wait until you have a couple items on your list you can hunt for.

This video shows the crowd variance I experienced. At 10-13 would be VIP time, 13-18 early entry, 19 onwards GA:

https://youtu.be/wPAx_r3MY8I?si=zeS0mU-HY7G-i0vU