It’s nearly that time of the year again when the Calgary Expo opens its doors for four days of action-packed pop culture fun attracting tens of thousands of people from all across Canada. Whether it’s video games, anime, comics, or sci-fi & fantasy that you’re into, this pop culture convention has something for everyone with a range of thrilling events and attractions as well as heaps of legendary guests. After thousands lined the streets for the Parade of Wonders that kickstarted last year’s event, organizers are expecting even greater numbers this year with many fans already expressing their excitement on social media platforms. As the event draws closer, let’s take a look at what you need to know before heading down to Calgary for this iconic event.
Cosplay At The Core
While it’s true that cosplay is an important part of every pop culture convention, Calgary Expo takes this to a whole new level with master cosplayers from across the nation bringing out their best creations for the annual event. Everybody is encouraged to attend in costume and take advantage of the free cosplay photo park to capture that special memory as well as the red carpet that gives every cosplayer the chance to walk down the aisle and get snapped by a professional photographer. The Stampede Qualifier gives hardcore cosplayers the chance to compete for a $1250 cash prize while hosting panels held across the four days gives burgeoning costume creators the chance to learn from the best in the business. However good you are behind a sewing machine, make sure to get your costume nailed down.
Anime Attractions
For all the anime lovers out there, the expo gives you the chance to meet up with likeminded people, make new friends and browse through the many retailers selling rare merchandise and costume items. With cosplay meetups happening all weekend long it is basically guaranteed that you’ll be able to find your crowd. Fans can also expect to meet some of their favorite anime voice actors while also attending Q&A sessions where voice actors will discuss the details of their performances with crowds of fans. While this year’s anime guests have not yet been announced, past appearances from the like of Ryan Colt Levy and Megan Shipman indicates that this year’s lineup will be equally strong.
Gaming Front And Center
As video gaming continues its meteoric rise in popularity, it comes as no surprise to see that gaming attractions make up a large section of this year’s event. With heaps of gaming booths set up throughout the events space, keen players can play against each other on a variety of different game from expansive MMOs to retro Nintendo releases. Alternatively, those looking for the fastest withdrawal casinos can head to online platforms to find their favorite games. It’s not just playing games either, with a vast array of different gaming panels, cosplay meetups and voice actor photo op and autograph sessions taking place across the weekend. Whatever your gaming level, the range of attractions on offer at Calgary Expo is sure to excite.
Bolster Your Comics Collection
Calgary Expo also has tons in store for comic book fans, no matter who your favorite comic book hero is. Head down to the Comic Creator Center for the chance to meet some of the biggest names in the game. Some creators will be hosting demos and workshops to help wannabe comic writers learn the skills required while many more will be sitting down signing autographs. For those looking for something new, make sure to check out Artists Alley where you’ll find up and coming stars selling everything from comics and graphic novels to limited edition prints and original sketches.
Celebrity Guests Galore
One of the main reasons people flock from all over the country is for the chance to meet some of the biggest names in the pop culture world. This year is no different, with the convention managing to bring in some A-listers from across TV and film. Superhero fans will be excited to hear that Charlie Cox, aka Daredevil, will be appearing on the Saturday offering photos and autographs while Marisa Tomei of Spiderman fame will be heading to Calgary on Saturday and Sunday. Canadian Whovians will also be looking forward to the event, with the thirteenth Doctor herself, Jodie Whittaker making an appearance. What’s more, the full list of celebrity guests hasn’t yet been announced so attendees can expect even more stars to be announced in the weeks to come.
Planning Your Visit
For those looking to visit, the expo will be taking place from the 24th till the 27th April at Stampede Park in Calgary. Before purchasing ticket ensure to plan your visit properly, making sure you know the correct directions to Stampede Park while checking out the nearest available parking lots. If you are travelling from outside of Calgary, check out the expo website to take advantage of the exclusive discounts available they have secured with several hotels across the city. With limited availability, make sure to book before they sell out.
Upon arrival, make sure to download the Calgary Expo 2025 app. This app provides information on all the events and attractions going on across the weekend. Utilize the schedule feature which enables users to create their own schedule made up of the specific events they want to see. Doing so will stop you from missing out on anything you want to see and maximize your experience.
And there it is, this should give you all the information you need to know to make a decision on this year’s Calgary Expo. For more information make sure to check out the expo website and sign up for their newsletters to ensure you stay up to date with the latest announcements and developments.
