PopCon Indy is returning to the city this summer, here’s what you need to know.
Taking over the Indianapolis Convention Center June 27-29, Indiana’s homegrown pop culture convention brings Hoosiers a weekend full of immersive fan experiences, live entertainment, celebrity guests and community for fans of all ages, according to a press release.
“PopCon isn’t just a place to meet your favorite stars or shop for collectibles — it’s a place to belong,” Kris Keys, co-owner of PopCon, said in a statement. “Whether you’re coming with kids, friends or flying solo, PopCon is built to be a welcoming, immersive space where everyone can celebrate what they love.”
PopCon Indy was created in 2014 to celebrate pop culture and “the creative community that brings it to life,” according to a press release. Now celebrating its 12th year, PopCon Indy continues to “redefine” what a convention can be, welcoming families, first-time fans and people across fandoms to celebrate passion, inclusivity and imagination in downtown Indianapolis.
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This year, the convention is placing inclusivity at the forefront, with programming designed to touch every corner of the pop culture universe. PopCon Indy 2025 promises Hoosiers a week full of excitement, with a lineup of activities, tournaments, photo ops and competitions to showcase creativity, connection and community, including:
- Celebrity Meet & Greets with those such as Ross Marquand (“The Walking Dead”), Emma Caulfield (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Michael Jai White (“Spawn”) and Rob Paulsen (“Animaniacs”).
- The Ultimate Cosplay Championships
- FEEL THE POP: K-Pop Dance Contest
- PopCon International Film Festival
- 8th Annual PopCon Podcast Awards
- Live Gaming Tournaments & Escape Rooms
- Family Zones featuring laser tag, magic shows and hands-on activities for younger fans.
- Author Alley & Vendor Market
“There’s something magical about watching a family geek out together over their favorite movie or video game,” Carl Doninger, co-owner of PopCon, said in a statement. “We see it every year — parents and kids cosplaying as their favorite characters, creating memories that last well beyond the weekend.”
PopCon Indy 2025 takes place at the Indianapolis Convention Center July 27-29. Tickets start at $20 for general admission with limited VIP packages that include early access and exclusive perks. Children 10 and under are free with a paying adult.
For more information about ticketing or to view a complete event schedule and stay up to date with announcements, sneak peeks and giveaways, visit popcon.us or follow @popconnation on social media.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe graduated with a degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and her previous work includes freelancing for Indy Maven, Assistant Arts & Life Editor for The Lantern, and editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Chloe enjoys covering all things arts and culture — from local music, visual art, dance, theater and film, as well as minority-owned businesses. In her free time, Chloe enjoys reading, cooking and keeping her plants alive.
