Are you looking for the ultimate fan experience? Are you familiar with FAN EXPO? FAN EXPO is a collection of fan conventions operated by FAN EXPO HQ. With over one million fans across North America, FAN EXPO HQ has become the world’s largest comic con event producer, with seventeen separate events planned for this year alone. For example:
FAN EXPO New Orleans is scheduled for January 10-12, 2025.
FAN EXPO Portland is scheduled for January 24-26, 2025.
FAN EXPO Vancouver is scheduled for February 21-23, 2025.
FAN EXPO Cleveland is scheduled for March 21-23, 2025.
FAN EXPO Philadelphia is scheduled for May 16-18, 2025.
FAN EXPO Dallas is scheduled for May 30-June 1, 2025.
FAN EXPO Denver is scheduled for July 3-6, 2025.
FAN EXPO Boston is scheduled for August 8-10, 2025.
FAN EXPO Chicago is scheduled for August 15-17, 2025.
FAN EXPO Canada is scheduled for August 21-24, 2025.
FAN EXPO San Francisco is scheduled for November 28-30, 2025.
Mark your 2025 calendars. Conventions such as these are wonderful opportunities for fans of all ages to come together and celebrate all things pop culture. With autograph and photo opportunities with beloved key celebrities, panels that deliver the inside scoop about the latest movies and TV shows, and cosplayers galore, FAN EXPO offers unforgettable experiences that enrich lives and bring people together. To delve into the significance of fan conventions, I interviewed FAN EXPO HQ Vice President Andrew Moyes. Keep reading to learn how FAN EXPO became the powerhouse it is today.
Andrew, how has FAN EXPO evolved since its conception in 2013? Has FAN EXPO stayed true to its original mission of providing the ultimate fan experience?
Since 2013, FAN EXPO HQ has grown tremendously while staying true to its mission of delivering the ultimate fan experience. From our beginnings to today, FAN EXPO has expanded to encompass 16 shows across North America, drawing over a million fans annually. Each year, we add exciting new events, more intimate fan experiences, and diverse programming to reflect the evolving world of pop culture.
Through it all, FAN EXPO has remained a community-driven event. Connecting fans and nurturing new relationships is our core focus. As we grow, we remain committed to fostering a welcoming space where fans can unite, celebrate their passions, and build lasting memories.
How has FAN EXPO continued to be created by fans for fans?
“By fans, for fans” is more than a tagline for us—it’s our driving purpose. FAN EXPO has three key goals: to introduce fans to new genres and experiences, to celebrate fandoms authentically, and to create a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels they belong. Whether fans come for anime and leave with a love for cosplay, or connect with someone new in line for a panel, FAN EXPO is built to reflect the diversity and excitement of fan culture.
For over a decade, these principles have guided us, and we’re proud to stay focused on what matters most to our community.
How does FAN EXPO accommodate fans from widely different fandoms? Is there something you feel that you guys are missing?
At FAN EXPO, we strive to celebrate the vast spectrum of fandom by curating a balanced mix of guests, activities, vendors, and interactive experiences that speak to everyone. Whether you’re a comic book enthusiast, a gaming fan, a horror lover, or a sci-fi devotee, there’s something here for you.
If we ever identify a gap, we rely on our fans to help us fill it. Their feedback drives our growth, and after each event, we review it carefully to make sure that FAN EXPO’s programming stays as diverse, exciting, and relevant as possible.
What is your favorite part of FAN EXPO and the conventions?
One of my favorite parts of FAN EXPO is witnessing fans light up as they immerse themselves in the ultimate fandom playground we’ve crafted just for them. There’s nothing like seeing pure joy and excitement when a fan meets their hero, discovers a new fandom, or shares a unique moment with someone who understands their passion.
How does FAN EXPO distinguish itself from competing conventions?
What sets FAN EXPO apart is our commitment to providing an inclusive, interactive, multi-genre experience where all fandoms are celebrated equally. Beyond meet-and-greets and autographs, we offer immersive experiences like Sketch Duels, “How To” workshops, fan meetups, and more to engage fans on a deeper level.
Moreover, FAN EXPO is built on fan feedback. We release our schedules to fans early and adapt based on their insights. This ensures that our events are truly by fans, for fans—a distinction that we hold with pride.
With FAN EXPO HQ as the world’s largest comic con event producer, does FAN EXPO intend to expand to more cities in future years?
Our presence is expanding. We currently connect over a million fans annually across 16 cities from coast to coast, from Boston to San Francisco, Toronto to Calgary. And with VIDCON now part of the FAN EXPO family, our momentum is stronger than ever.
With conventions in multiple cities nationwide, how does FAN EXPO try to resonate with each individual city?
Every FAN EXPO event is tailored to its host city, thanks to our collaboration with local partners, nonprofits, and businesses. For example, in San Francisco, we work with organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Asian Art Museum to create experiences unique to the community.
Each city also has a dedicated Community Zone that showcases local clubs, costume groups, artists, and fan organizations, providing attendees with a hometown feel. These partnerships and local touches make each FAN EXPO feel personal and meaningful, helping us build authentic relationships with fans across North America.
With conventions planned throughout the year and FAN EXPO HQ being a large-scale event, can you tell us about the team behind the scenes that makes these conventions happen for fans?
The FAN EXPO team is made up of incredibly talented, passionate individuals who bring their fandoms to life in each and every event. From our Guest Teams and Show Managers, who engage directly with fans, to our Content, Marketing, and Operations Teams behind the scenes, every member is dedicated to creating the best experience possible.
Our team is a testament to the “by fans, for fans” philosophy—we understand our community because we’re part of it, and we put our passion into every aspect of the show.
With fan-oriented conventions becoming an integral part of pop culture, what can you tell us about the future of FAN EXPO? What can fans expect in future years?
The future of FAN EXPO is all about evolving with our fans. We’re continuously adding new guests, fresh programming, and interactive elements from popular shows, games, movies, and comics, while also celebrating fan-favorite classics.
We’re also deepening our community engagement by introducing partnerships with local businesses, artists, and organizations that add new dimensions to our events. We want FAN EXPO to be a space fans return to year after year, excited to see what’s new and be part of a growing community.
Fan Expo has hosted a multitude of incredible guests, like Mark Hamill and The Lord of The Rings cast, so is there a dream guest you would love to have in the future for fans?
Seeing fans’ reactions to our incredible guests is one of the best parts of my job! I’ll always remember when Mark Hamill joined us at FAN EXPO San Francisco—fans flew in from all over the world just for the chance to meet him. The excitement and joy that guests like Mark bring to our fans fuel my passion for FAN EXPO, and we look forward to bringing more unforgettable guests to our shows in the years to come.
Are you planning to attend any of the previously mentioned FAN EXPO conventions set for this year? Tell us in the comments if you plan to attend one or more FAN EXPO conventions in 2025, and tell us what YOU are most excited for!
