Get ready, Cape Town – Comic Con is back, and it’s bigger, bolder, and geekier than ever! From 1 to 4 May 2025, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC2) will be transformed into a pop culture paradise, complete with gaming galore, cosplay chaos, star-studded panels, and shopping that’ll have your wallet begging for mercy. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just in it for the vibes, here are 10 things you can expect from Comic Con Cape Town 2025.
1. The Main Stage and Pop Culture Hall
This is where the magic happens. Expect electric energy, celebrity Q&As, and interactive panels that’ll make any fan’s heart skip a beat. Highlights this year include:
- Ian McDiarmid (aka Emperor Palpatine himself!)
- Michael Trucco from Battlestar Galactica and Big Bang Theory
- Zach Aguilar, voice of Tanjiro from Demon Slayer and Aether in Genshin Impact
- Aki Dearest & The Anime Man, YouTube legends in the anime world
From quizzes to workshops on comic writing and cosplay crafting, the Pop Culture Hall is where knowledge meets fandom.
2. Gaming galore
Gamers, you’re in for a treat. Head to Level 2 for endless free-to-play zones, tournaments, and epic competitions. Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Telkom VS Gaming with the eDiski S8 finals
- Checkers Zone featuring UFC 5, gear, and an appearance by UFC champ Dricus Du Plessis
- Toyota Gaming Engine: play Street Fighter 8, Gran Turismo, Subway Surfers, and more
- Red Bull’s Tekken 8 tournament
- RGB Gaming is catering to the younger crowd with Minecraft, Apex Legends, and Fortnite action
Basically, it’s gaming heaven.
3. Cosplay all day
Whether you’re a cosplay pro or just love a good excuse to dress up, there’s room for everyone. Thanks to Medirite x Essence, Cosplay Central has everything you need for touch-ups and costume prep.
- Daily cosplay competitions (for both kids and adults!)
- Regional Championships and the World Cosplay Summit Qualifier on Sunday
- Meet international cosplay stars Yuji Koi and Mayo Cosplay
Plus, don’t miss the brand-new Extreme Cosplay Gathering Qualifier. It’s cosplay madness (the good kind).
4. May the 4th Be With You
This year, Comic Con lands on Star Wars Day – so prepare for the ultimate fan gathering on Sunday. Expect:
- Free Star Wars comics for the first 500 fans in costume
- Jedi training sessions (yes, really)
- Themed quizzes, cosplay comps, and meet-ups
Whether you’re a Sith or Jedi, the Force is strong with this one.
5. Artist Alley
Art lovers, you’ll want to spend serious time in Hall 5. Over 120 artists will showcase jaw-dropping pieces – from comics and prints to commissions and collectibles.
Look out for:
- Legends like Adam Kubert, Jim Cheung, Laura Braga, and Stéphanie Lavaud
- Home-grown talent like Sean Izaakse, Warren Louw, and many more
- A tribute to the late Karl Mostert
- Urban art from the likes of Keith Vlahakis and Bushy Wopp
Plus, support emerging creatives via the City of Cape Town’s Emerging Artists Programme.
6. The KidsCon Zone
It’s not all grown-up geekery – KidsCon, powered by Toys R Us, is bringing the fun for little fans.
- Meet Mario & Luigi, Geoffrey the Giraffe, The Smurfs, and more
- Join in with Pokémon Academy activities and epic toy adventures
- Discover Lush’s Minecraft collection (squeal!)
- Shop a mountain of toys and collectibles with Toys R Us on-site
Basically, it’s a wonderland for kids (and nostalgic adults).
7. Epic experiences everywhere
Pop culture goes immersive with activations from the likes of:
- Netflix (Squid Game Season 3 is going to be huge)
- M-Net and their The Last of Us set experience
- Amazon with “What’s in the Box?” fun
- HintHunt escape rooms, Dance Dance Revolution, and CapeLUG LEGO builds
Plus: themed eateries, tabletop games (Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Star Wars Unlimited, and more), and loads of surprises.
8. Shopping and collectibles
Ready to blow your budget? The shopping floor is brimming with treasures:
- Limited-edition merchandise
- Rare comics, geeky fashion, and fan art
- One-of-a-kind creations you won’t find anywhere else
- Live customisation and artisan stalls
Tip: bring a big tote. You’ll need it.
9. Food trucks and After Dark events
Fuel up at the outdoor food truck zone – perfect for chilling between panels. And when the Con doors close? The party’s just getting started.
After Dark events include:
- 1 May: Coffee & Comics at Truth Coffee (7pm–10pm)
- 2 May: Comedy Night at Protea Fire & Ice (7pm–late)
- 3 May: The Curse of Improv Island at The Outlore Base (8pm–late)
Even better? All proceeds go to the Children’s Hospital Trust.
10. Autographs and photo ops
This is your chance to meet your icons face-to-face. Head to Level 2 for celeb encounters where you can:
- Snap a pro photo with your favourite stars
- Score autographs (bring your own item or grab something on the spot)
- Enjoy an unforgettable, close-up fan moment
Hot tip: These sessions are popular – book early if you can!
Don’t miss it!
Comic Con Cape Town 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable four-day celebration of pop culture in all its glory. Whether you’re coming for the comics, the games, the celebs, or the cosplay, you’re guaranteed a weekend of absolute joy.
Tickets from R220 at comiccon.howler.co.za – see you there, cape and all.
