The Greater Austin Comic Con 2025 officially kicked off on July 19 at the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park, Texas. The two-day event is a major celebration of pop culture, bringing together fans from across the state for a weekend filled with comic book signings, cosplay contests, celebrity panels, gaming tournaments, and more. With a star-studded lineup of guests and exciting activities for all ages, the event is one of the biggest pop culture conventions in the region this year.
A Star-Studded Lineup and Iconic Guests
One of the biggest draws of the Greater Austin Comic Con is the lineup of celebrity guests from across the worlds of film, television, comics, and wrestling. This year’s convention brought together the cast of the beloved 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film, including Cory Feldman (Donatello) and Judith Hoag (April O’Neil), giving fans the chance to relive the nostalgia of one of the most iconic comic book films of the 1990s.
The convention also hosted several wrestling legends, such as Kevin Von Erich, a member of the famous Von Erich wrestling family, and Sgt. Slaughter, a WWE Hall of Famer. Additionally, UFC Champion Rampage Jackson and boxing legend Riddick Bowe were on hand for panels and autograph sessions, making it a must-attend event for fans of combat sports.
Other notable appearances included comic artist Sean Chen, renowned for his work on Iron Man and X-Men, as well as actor and comedian Brian Posehn, who is known for his roles in The Big Bang Theory and Deadpool. Their participation further expanded the event’s reach, attracting fans from a variety of genres, from comics to stand-up comedy.
Cosplay and Interactive Experiences
Cosplay has become a staple at comic conventions, and the Greater Austin Comic Con 2025 did not disappoint. The convention’s cosplay contest featured a wide range of costumes, from classic comic book characters to more modern video game and movie heroes. Attendees went all out, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship, with some costumes that were truly works of art.
The convention also boasted a variety of interactive experiences, such as gaming tournaments where players competed in titles like Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart. There was also a retro arcade lounge, offering fans the chance to play classic arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s.
For families, the Kids Activity Zone provided an array of activities designed to keep younger attendees entertained. The zone featured magic shows, DIY craft stations, and even science demonstrations that highlighted the intersection of learning and fun. This family-friendly aspect made the convention a great choice for comic fans of all ages.
Local Artists and Merchandising
A central feature of the convention was its artist alley, where local creators and comic book artists had the chance to showcase their work. This part of the event helped promote Texas’s vibrant creative community, with many artists selling prints, original art, and limited-edition comics. For fans, this offered a unique opportunity to connect directly with the creators behind their favorite characters.
Moreover, the convention featured a merchandise hall that offered everything from comic books to exclusive pop culture collectibles. Vendors sold a wide range of goods, including action figures, vintage comics, graphic novels, and unique memorabilia that fans could add to their collections.
Cultural Significance of Austin Comic Con
The Greater Austin Comic Con 2025 is not just a celebration of pop culture; it is an important part of Austin’s growing reputation as a hub for creativity and artistic expression. The convention brings together artists, writers, fans, and celebrities in a shared celebration of fandom and pop culture that continues to evolve across generations.
Austin’s creative community thrives in part due to events like this one, which offer exposure to new artists and creators while also celebrating long-standing fan traditions. With the increasing popularity of comic cons nationwide, Austin has become an essential stop for fans looking to experience some of the biggest names in entertainment and pop culture.
What’s Next for the Austin Comic Con?
Looking ahead, the Greater Austin Comic Con is expected to continue growing, bringing even more diverse guests, activities, and interactive experiences to future conventions. With the continued support of fans and local businesses, the event is poised to become one of the top pop culture conventions in the United States.